Why the Crock Pot Chicken Is Great For Burning Fat
While many people associate slow-cooked meals with comfort food, I’ve found that Crock Pot Chicken can actually be a smart choice for those looking to burn fat.
The slow cooking process helps retain moisture and flavors without adding excessive oil or unhealthy ingredients. Plus, using lean chicken breasts provides a high-protein option that keeps me feeling full longer.
When I combine it with mushrooms, I’m boosting the nutrient content without extra calories. This dish isn’t just easy to prepare; it’s also a satisfying way to enjoy a hearty meal while staying on track with my health goals.
Ingredients of Crock Pot Chicken
When it comes to whipping up a comforting meal with minimal fuss, the ingredients for Mushroom-Loaded Crock Pot Chicken are just the ticket. This dish combines flavorful chicken, hearty mushrooms, and gooey cheese, creating a delightful medley that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, letting you kick back while your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas. You’ll want to gather a few staple items, so let’s take a look!
Ingredients for Mushroom-Loaded Crock Pot Chicken:
- 3-4 boneless chicken breasts
- 4-5 eggs, beaten
- 3 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- Fresh mushrooms (quantity as desired)
- 2 (8 ounce) cans chicken broth
- Oil (for frying)
- 2 cups of any kind of shredded cheese
Now, before you plunge into preparing this dish, there are a few things to keep in mind about the ingredients. For starters, using boneless chicken breasts is a no-brainer since they’re lean and cook nicely in the crock pot.
But don’t let that stop you from experimenting with other proteins if you’re feeling adventurous! And speaking of mushrooms, you can choose any variety you like—button, portobello, or even shiitake for that gourmet touch.
Just remember, the more mushrooms, the merrier, right? Finally, don’t skimp on the cheese; it’s what makes the dish ooze with deliciousness. Just thinking about that melty layer makes my heart sing!
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken
Alright, let’s plunge into the deliciousness that’s Mushroom-Loaded Crock Pot Chicken. First things first, grab your 3-4 boneless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces. This part can be a bit messy, but hey, that’s what kitchen towels are for, right?
Once you’ve got your chicken all chopped up, it’s time to make it extra flavorful. In a separate bowl, beat 4-5 eggs until they’re nice and frothy, then toss in those chicken pieces, giving them a good coating. Now, here’s the secret: refrigerate that chicken and egg mixture overnight. Trust me, the flavors will meld beautifully, and you’ll be rewarded with tender, juicy chicken.
Fast forward to the next day. When you’re ready to cook, take the chicken out of the fridge and let the magic begin. Set out 3 cups of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs – this is where the crunch factor comes in. Dip each piece of chicken into the breadcrumbs, coating them well.
Now, heat up some oil in a skillet over medium heat, and fry those breadcrumb-coated chicken pieces for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re golden brown. Don’t worry if they don’t look perfect; they’ll get all cozy and saucy in the crock pot soon enough.
Now that you’ve got your crispy chicken, let’s layer it in the crock pot. Grab a handful of fresh mushrooms (feel free to use as many as you like) and toss them in with the chicken. Pour in two 8-ounce cans of chicken broth, which will create a savory bath for our chicken to simmer in.
Set your crock pot on low for 4 to 5 hours and go about your day, maybe binge-watch that show you’ve been meaning to catch up on. When you finally return, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll be ready to partake.
Top with 2 cups of your favorite shredded cheese, let it melt, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Who needs takeout when you can whip this up with such ease?
Crock Pot Chicken Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to make your Mushroom-Loaded Crock Pot Chicken a bit more low-carb friendly, I’ve got some great substitutions and variations for you.
First, swap out the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour—they’re perfect for that crunchy texture without the carbs.
You can also replace the chicken broth with a homemade version that uses low-sodium options or bone broth for added health benefits.
For a veggie boost, add zucchini or cauliflower instead of mushrooms.
Finally, don’t forget to use full-fat cheese for creaminess while keeping those carbs in check.
Enjoy your low-carb twist!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Chicken
After enjoying a delicious low-carb version of Mushroom-Loaded Crock Pot Chicken, you might be wondering what to pair it with to complete the meal.
I love serving it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, add a nice touch, too.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, creamy cauliflower mash makes a fantastic side. I sometimes even whip up some garlic sautéed spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
These options complement the chicken’s flavors while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying. Enjoy your feast!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
To reduce calories in your Mushroom-Loaded Crock Pot Chicken, consider swapping out some ingredients for lighter alternatives.
I like to use skinless chicken breasts instead of traditional cuts, and I skip the frying step altogether. Instead of breadcrumbs, I opt for whole-grain panko or even crushed oats for a lighter coating.
For the cheese, reduced-fat options work great without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, I use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the dish flavorful while cutting down on sodium.