20 Easy Crockpot Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners

If you find yourself rushing home after a long day and dreading the dinner prep, these 20 crockpot recipes are here to save the day. Packed with flavor and simplicity, each recipe is designed to fit into your busy schedule, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade meals with minimal effort. Just set it, forget it, and come home to a meal that’s ready to be served!

Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl

A Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl is a delightful mix of flavors that’s both nutritious and filling. This dish features protein-packed quinoa and chickpeas combined with fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The vibrant colors and textures come together for a meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you attend to other tasks. You’ll come home to a warm, satisfying bowl that’s packed with Mediterranean goodness.

Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and Sour Pork is a delightful dish that combines tender pork with vibrant vegetables and a tangy sauce. The balance of sweetness and acidity makes each bite satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in your crockpot, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

This recipe not only saves you time but also allows you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you attend to other tasks. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the pork, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion in the crockpot.
2. In a bowl, mix together sugar, vinegar, ketchup, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the pork and vegetables.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then stir lightly to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the pork is tender.
5. Serve over steamed rice for a delicious and hearty meal.

Spicy Chicken Tacos

Spicy chicken tacos are a fun and flavorful choice for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender, shredded chicken with bold spices, creating a delicious filling that’s easy to prepare. The zesty kick will satisfy your taste buds without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for taco night, these spicy chicken tacos are not only simple to make but also customizable. You can top them with your favorite ingredients like fresh salsa, lettuce, or avocado. Toss everything into your crockpot, and let it do the work while you unwind after a long day!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• Shredded lettuce, for topping
• Chopped tomatoes, for topping
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts with the taco seasoning, salsa, and chopped onions and bell peppers. Mix well to coat the chicken.
2. Crockpot Cooking: Place the mixture in your crockpot and drizzle with olive oil. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot and mix it with the sauce.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a pan or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the spicy chicken mixture and top with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro.
5. Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos and enjoy!

Savory Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any busy weeknight. With tender beef simmered in a creamy sauce accented by mushrooms and onions, it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. You can whip this up in your crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you attend to other tasks.

This recipe is a classic that never fails to please. The rich, savory taste and smooth texture make it a favorite among families. Plus, it pairs perfectly with pasta or rice, providing a hearty meal without much fuss. Let’s dive into making this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 12 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the beef stew meat, onion, mushrooms, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
2. Crockpot Cooking: Transfer the mixture to your crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender.
3. Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with the sour cream in a separate bowl. Slowly stir this mixture into the crockpot and mix well. Cover and let it heat through.
4. Cook the Noodles: In the last 20 minutes of cooking, prepare the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Serve: Once the stroganoff is ready, serve it over the noodles and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your tasty meal!

Classic Pot Roast

Classic pot roast is a comforting dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to your busy weeknights. This recipe features a tender, juicy roast that’s slow-cooked with hearty vegetables, creating a rich and savory flavor that’s simply delightful.

The good news is that it’s incredibly easy to prepare! Just season the meat, toss it in the slow cooker with some veggies, and let the crockpot do all the work while you go about your day. By dinnertime, you’ll have a meal that feels like a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds chuck roast
• 2 cups baby carrots
• 1 pound baby potatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Prep the Roast: Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the roast on all sides until browned.
2. Add to the Crockpot: Place the seared roast in the crockpot. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, and potatoes around the roast.
3. Mix the Broth: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and any remaining seasoning. Pour this mixture over the roast and vegetables.
4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart.
5. Serve: Slice the roast and serve it warm with the vegetables and broth for a hearty meal.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, rich cream, and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta. This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also straightforward, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta, creating a comforting meal that the whole family will love.

With minimal prep time and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you can come home to a warm dinner ready to serve. This dish is creamy, hearty, and just the right amount of indulgent!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Layer the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese on top. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours.
3. Cook the Pasta: About 20 minutes before the chicken is done, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken within the slow cooker using two forks and stir well.
5. Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the slow cooker, mixing everything together. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and stir until evenly coated.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy your creamy chicken Alfredo!

Garlic Parmesan Risotto

Garlic Parmesan Risotto is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese blend beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare. Using a crockpot makes it even easier, as you can set it up and let it cook while you attend to other tasks.

This risotto has a lovely, creamy texture and a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of risotto without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In your crockpot, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix well.
2. Add the Rice: Add the Arborio rice to the crockpot, stirring until the rice is well coated with the onion and garlic mixture.
3. Pour in the Broth: Slowly add the vegetable broth, making sure the rice is fully submerged. Give it a gentle stir.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 2-3 hours, or until the rice is tender and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add Cheese and Garnish: Once cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Finish with chopped parsley before serving.

Hearty Vegetable Chili

This Hearty Vegetable Chili is a warm bowl of comfort that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with colorful vegetables and beans, it’s both nutritious and filling. The blend of spices adds a nice depth of flavor, making each spoonful satisfying and wholesome.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also does a great job of cleaning out your fridge. Toss in whatever vegetables you have on hand, and let the slow cooker do the work for you. After a few hours, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the bell pepper, carrots, celery, zucchini, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir the mixture well and set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The tender chicken pieces are coated in a luscious teriyaki sauce that brings a satisfying taste to your meal. Paired with fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables, it creates a filling dish that the whole family will love.

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare; simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work. In just a few hours, you’ll have a hearty dinner ready to serve without much fuss!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Make sure the chicken is well coated.
2. Add Vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the broccoli and peas on top of the chicken.
3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the sauce. Serve the teriyaki chicken over cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches

BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches are a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender, slow-cooked pork drenched in a savory barbecue sauce, these sandwiches are both flavorful and filling. They offer a wonderful blend of sweet and smoky tastes that everyone will love.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. Simply place your ingredients in a crockpot and let it do all the work while you relax or catch up on chores. In no time, you’ll have a hearty dinner ready to serve with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 hamburger buns
• Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork: Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder and place it in the crockpot.
2. Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, sliced onion, garlic, brown sugar, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the pork in the crockpot.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix it with the sauce.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches: Serve the pulled pork on toasted hamburger buns and top with coleslaw if desired.

Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan White Bean Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. Packed with nutritious white beans, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The rich, creamy texture combined with a hint of garlic and rosemary creates a delightful taste that warms you from the inside out.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights since it requires minimal prep time and lets the slow cooker do all the work. Just toss the ingredients in, set it, and let it simmer while you handle other tasks. Enjoy this delicious soup with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In your slow cooker, heat the olive oil on the sauté setting and add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic and dried rosemary, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the white beans, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Soup: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until everything is tender.
5. Finish with Greens: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale or spinach. Allow it to wilt and soften.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with freshly baked bread.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and tasty option for busy weeknights. These peppers are filled with a mix of savory ingredients, making them a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. The combination of spices, meat, and cheese creates a delightful taste that makes this dish a family favorite.

Preparing stuffed bell peppers is simple and requires minimal effort. You can easily customize the filling with your choice of grains, proteins, and veggies. Just pop them in the crockpot, and you’ll have a delicious dinner waiting for you after a long day.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), drained
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in the crockpot upright.
2. Make the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the meat mixture, pressing down gently to pack them in. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.
4. Crockpot Cooking: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peppers are tender.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy your hearty stuffed bell peppers!

Chili Lime Shrimp

Chili Lime Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. The combination of zesty lime and spicy chili creates a refreshing yet fiery taste that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. Not only is this recipe quick to prep, but it also cooks effortlessly in your crockpot, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

This dish pairs beautifully with rice or fresh vegetables, making it a versatile meal option. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make, ensuring that you can impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
3. Transfer the shrimp to the crockpot and cook on high for 1-2 hours or on low for 2-3 hours, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Once done, serve the shrimp garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

Lentil and Spinach Stew

This Lentil and Spinach Stew is a hearty dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Made with lentils, fresh spinach, and a variety of vegetables, it offers a comforting taste that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a healthy dinner.

One of the best parts? It’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just toss everything in your crockpot and let it simmer away while you go about your day. By the time you’re ready to eat, you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, combine the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until lentils are tender.
3. Add Spinach: During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted.
4. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your warm and nourishing meal!

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Beef and broccoli stir fry is a delightful dish that combines tender beef with fresh broccoli, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s a comforting meal that brings together rich flavors and vibrant colors, making it a favorite for busy weeknights.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and just a few ingredients. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic Chinese dish without the fuss of takeout, and it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the garlic and ginger, then add the broccoli. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Combine and Sauce: Return the beef to the skillet, then pour in the beef broth and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve: Serve the beef and broccoli stir fry over a bed of cooked rice, and enjoy!

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful dish that brings comfort to busy weeknights, creamy tomato basil pasta is a wonderful choice. This dish combines the rich flavors of tomatoes and fresh basil with creamy sauce, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up.

The best part? You can let your slow cooker do the work while you attend to other tasks. Just toss in your ingredients, set it, and enjoy a creamy pasta dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Add the pasta, cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the pasta is tender.
3. Once cooked, stir in salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
4. Finally, add the chopped basil and give it a gentle stir before serving.

Honey Garlic Chicken

This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a delightful taste that pairs perfectly with tender chicken. Toss in some veggies, and you have a complete dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe a weeknight winner is its simplicity. Just add the ingredients to your crockpot, set it, and forget it until dinner time! With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s the ideal solution for busy evenings.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• Steamed broccoli and green beans for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, and pour the honey garlic mixture over them.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
4. Once done, shred the chicken in the crockpot and stir to combine with the sauce.
5. Serve the honey garlic chicken over rice or alongside steamed broccoli and green beans, garnished with chopped green onions.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken Tortilla Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly balances spices and freshness. With tender chicken, zesty tomatoes, and crunchy tortilla strips, it’s a delightful way to warm up on a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without much effort.

This soup is not only satisfying but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, like avocado slices, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime, making every bowl unique. Ready in just a few hours, it’s an efficient and delicious meal for those hectic evenings.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a crockpot, add the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the soup.
4. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with tortilla strips, avocado slices, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Vegetarian Stuffed Zucchini

If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying dish, vegetarian stuffed zucchini is a fantastic option. These stuffed zucchinis are not only colorful and appealing but also packed with flavor. The combination of tender zucchini with a savory filling makes for an enjoyable meal that’s simple to whip up on a busy weeknight.

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to use whatever veggies or grains you have on hand. The taste is a delightful balance of fresh ingredients and hearty components, ensuring that every bite is full of goodness. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables!

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create a boat shape. Place them in a baking dish.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, green onions, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff the Zucchini: Spoon the filling into each zucchini half, packing it in gently. Top with shredded cheese.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty and delicious vegetarian stuffed zucchini!

Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that combines a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a hearty broth. This recipe is all about comfort, offering a warm, satisfying taste that is both filling and nutritious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, as you can throw everything into your crockpot and let it simmer while you go about your day.

The beauty of minestrone is its versatility; you can mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Plus, this soup is simple to make and can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crockpot. Add zucchini, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the pasta. Cook until the pasta is tender.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm bowl of minestrone soup!