Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast for Meal Prep
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is perfect for meal prep, delivering juicy, flavorful chicken that can easily be added to your favorite dishes throughout the week.
This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a spicy, succulent dish that’s perfect for meal prepping. The slow cooker does all the work, infusing the chicken with rich flavors while you go about your day!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless meal prep for the week ahead
- Packed with bold, spicy flavors
- Perfect texture that stays juicy and tender
Meal Prep Made Easy
Meal prepping can often feel overwhelming, but with this Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast recipe, it becomes a breeze. By utilizing a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your chicken cooks to perfection. This method is not only time-saving but also ensures that your chicken remains moist and flavorful, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeks.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can use the shredded chicken in various dishes throughout the week, from tacos to salads, or even as a protein boost in grain bowls. Each portion can be easily stored in meal prep containers, making your weekly lunches and dinners quick and hassle-free.
Flavor Profile
This recipe is a celebration of bold flavors, with the combination of chili powder, cumin, and lime juice creating a zesty kick that elevates the chicken. The spices work together to infuse the meat with depth and warmth, making each bite a delight. Whether you're a spice enthusiast or just looking to add some excitement to your meals, this chicken will not disappoint.
Additionally, the use of chicken broth helps to keep the chicken moist while adding an extra layer of flavor. The slow cooking process allows the spices to penetrate the meat thoroughly, ensuring that every shred of chicken is packed with taste.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. By preparing it with minimal oil and incorporating spices instead of heavy sauces, this recipe remains nutritious while still being delicious. Each serving provides essential nutrients without excess calories, perfect for health-conscious meal prep.
Moreover, the addition of fresh cilantro not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional benefits. Cilantro is rich in antioxidants and may help in detoxifying the body. Including a variety of ingredients in your meal prep not only enhances flavors but also promotes a balanced diet.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make the Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting the cooking process!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast:
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add to Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and lime juice, then drizzle with olive oil.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to soak up the juices.
Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve in tacos, salads, or over rice for a delicious meal prep option!
Enjoy your delicious and spicy chicken throughout the week!
Storage Tips
To ensure that your Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast remains fresh throughout the week, it's essential to store it properly. Once shredded, allow the chicken to cool before dividing it into meal prep containers. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. Seal the containers tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days.
If you want to keep the chicken for longer, consider freezing portions. Place the shredded chicken in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
The versatility of this Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast means you can enjoy it in countless ways. Try it in soft or hard-shell tacos, topped with avocado, salsa, and cheese for a satisfying meal. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of greens for a light and refreshing salad, drizzled with lime vinaigrette for added zest.
For a heartier option, spoon the chicken over rice or quinoa and pair with your favorite vegetables. This recipe also works beautifully for meal prepping wraps or sandwiches, offering a spicy twist to your usual lunch options. Get creative and make it your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ What can I serve this chicken with?
It's great in tacos, salads, or served over rice or quinoa.
→ Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! You can add more or less chili powder to suit your taste.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast for Meal Prep
This Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is perfect for meal prep, delivering juicy, flavorful chicken that can easily be added to your favorite dishes throughout the week.
Created by: Adele Summers
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and lime juice, then drizzle with olive oil.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to soak up the juices.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve in tacos, salads, or over rice for a delicious meal prep option!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 4g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 40g