10 Budget-Friendly High-Protein Chicken Crockpot Recipes That Won't Break The Bank

If you're looking for delicious and budget-friendly meals, high-protein chicken crockpot recipes are a fantastic option. These recipes not only save you time and money, but they're also perfect for anyone aiming to include more protein in their diets. Get ready to whip up some satisfying dishes that keep your wallet happy!

Savory Garlic Herb Chicken For Busy Weeknights

When life gets hectic, a simple and delicious meal can be a lifesaver. This Savory Garlic Herb Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken thighs with vibrant veggies, all cooked together in a crockpot. The garlic and herbs create a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it a great choice for families.

The image showcases beautifully cooked chicken thighs nestled among colorful bell peppers and potatoes. The fresh herbs add a pop of green, making the dish not only tasty but visually appealing. This meal is a great way to enjoy a nutritious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
• 2 cups potatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and paprika. Rub the minced garlic over the chicken.
2. Layer the Veggies: In the crockpot, add the sliced bell peppers and diced potatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
3. Add the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables in the crockpot.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Sweet And Tangy Bbq Chicken For Family Gatherings

Sweet and tangy BBQ chicken is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings. This dish combines juicy chicken with a flavorful sauce that balances sweetness and tanginess. It’s easy to prepare in a crockpot, making it a convenient option for busy days.

The image showcases a delicious spread featuring tender BBQ chicken, fluffy cornbread, and creamy coleslaw. The chicken looks perfectly glazed, inviting everyone to dig in. The sides complement the main dish, adding variety and texture to the meal. This setup is ideal for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add to Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot and pour the sauce over it, ensuring all pieces are coated.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. Serve: Once done, shred the chicken in the sauce or serve whole. Pair with cornbread and coleslaw for a complete meal.

Savory Mediterranean Chicken With Olives And Feta

This Mediterranean chicken dish is a delightful mix of flavors that brings a taste of the sun-drenched coast right to your kitchen. The vibrant colors of the fresh tomatoes, olives, and creamy feta cheese make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Drizzling olive oil over the top adds a rich finish that enhances all the ingredients.

Cooking this dish in a crockpot makes it super easy. Just toss everything in, set it, and forget it! The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender chicken that practically falls apart. It's a perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Pair this dish with some crusty bread or a simple salad to complete your Mediterranean feast. It’s high in protein and budget-friendly, making it a win-win for any meal plan.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Add the Veggies: Layer the halved cherry tomatoes and olives over the chicken.
3. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Pour the olive oil over the top, ensuring everything is coated.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Finish with Feta: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and cover again to let it warm.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!

Classic Chicken Tortilla Soup With A Crunch

Chicken tortilla soup is a comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out. This recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and a mix of spices, topped with crispy tortilla strips for that perfect crunch. The vibrant colors in the bowl, with fresh avocado slices and cilantro, make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

The image showcases a hearty bowl of chicken tortilla soup, garnished with crispy tortilla strips, creamy avocado, and fresh cilantro. The warm tones of the soup contrast beautifully with the bright green of the avocado and the colorful woven blanket underneath. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures.

Making this soup in a crockpot is a game changer. You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste, making it perfect for families or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup tortilla strips
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Add the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
4. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken With Steamed Vegetables

Teriyaki chicken is a classic dish that brings a taste of Japan right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. The chicken is marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, making it tender and flavorful. Pair it with fresh steamed vegetables, and you have a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

The image showcases a beautifully plated dish of teriyaki chicken, served with fluffy white rice and a colorful array of vegetables. The chicken is glazed with a shiny teriyaki sauce and garnished with sesame seeds, adding a nice touch. The vibrant greens and orange carrots provide a pop of color, making the meal visually appealing.

Cooking in a crockpot makes this recipe even easier. Just toss everything in, set it, and let the slow cooker do the work. You’ll come home to a warm, hearty meal that’s ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Steam the Vegetables: About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli, carrots, and snap peas to the crockpot. Cover and let them steam in the sauce.
4. Serve: Once everything is cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce. Serve over cooked rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Buffalo Chicken With Blue Cheese Crumbles For Bold Flavors

Buffalo chicken is a classic dish that packs a punch. It’s perfect for game day or any casual gathering. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy blue cheese crumbles creates a flavor explosion that everyone loves. Plus, it’s easy to make in a crockpot, saving you time and effort.

In the image, you can see a delicious spread of buffalo chicken wings, garnished with blue cheese crumbles. They are served alongside fresh celery sticks and colorful carrot sticks, making for a vibrant and appealing plate. The footballs in the background hint at a fun game day atmosphere, making this dish a perfect choice for watching your favorite team.

This recipe is not only tasty but also budget-friendly. You can whip up a batch without spending a fortune. Let’s get into the details of how to make this crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Celery sticks and carrot sticks for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the Sauce: Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot.
5. Serve: Plate the buffalo chicken and sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles. Serve with celery and carrot sticks on the side.

Cilantro Lime Chicken For A Fresh Take

Cilantro lime chicken is a fantastic dish that brings a burst of freshness to your table. The vibrant colors in the image showcase tender chicken pieces mixed with bright red bell peppers and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime slices. This combination not only looks appealing but also offers a delightful flavor profile that’s both zesty and savory.

The use of lime adds a refreshing twist, making it perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to please. Plus, it’s high in protein and budget-friendly, making it a win-win!

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious cilantro lime chicken.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the crockpot with olive oil. Place the marinated chicken in the crockpot along with the sliced bell peppers.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred and Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the peppers. Serve warm, garnished with extra cilantro and lime slices if desired.

Smoky Paprika Chicken For A Unique Flavor Experience

Smoky paprika chicken is a delightful dish that brings warmth and a hint of spice to your table. The deep red color of the paprika gives the chicken an inviting look, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also packed with protein, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.

In the image, you can see beautifully cooked chicken pieces, garnished with fresh cilantro. The rustic kitchen setting adds to the charm, with various spices and ingredients in the background, hinting at the flavorful journey this dish offers. The combination of smoky paprika, tender chicken, and vibrant garnishes creates a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make your own smoky paprika chicken in a crockpot, ensuring a flavorful meal that won’t break the bank.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs.
2. Prepare the Crockpot: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor.
3. Add to Crockpot: Transfer the seared chicken to the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Serve: Once done, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or your favorite side dish.

Asian Sesame Chicken For A Quick Dinner Solution

Asian Sesame Chicken is a fantastic choice for a quick dinner. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a savory sesame sauce, making it both delicious and satisfying. The vibrant colors of the dish, with bright green vegetables and the golden-brown chicken, make it visually appealing too.

To prepare this meal, you’ll need some basic ingredients that are easy to find. The chicken cooks slowly in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Steamed vegetables, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
2. Add Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
4. Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water. Stir this mixture into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
5. Serve: Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the sauce. Top with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice with steamed vegetables on the side.

Creamy Mushroom Chicken For Comfort Food Lovers

This creamy mushroom chicken dish is perfect for those who love comfort food. The tender chicken, smothered in a rich mushroom sauce, brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a high-protein option that fits your budget.

The image showcases a bowl filled with juicy chicken pieces, surrounded by sautéed mushrooms and a creamy sauce. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color, making it visually appealing. The rustic wooden background enhances the homey feel, inviting you to dig in.

Making this dish in a crockpot is a game changer. You can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up that creamy goodness.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they are soft.
3. Transfer the mixture to the crockpot. Place the chicken breasts on top.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Once done, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir well. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.