5 High-Protein, Low-Calorie Crock Pot Recipes for Healthy Eating

Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in the kitchen. Crock pot (slow cooker) meals are a game-changer for busy people who want high-protein, low-calorie options that taste amazing and support fitness goals. These meals cook slowly, locking in flavor and making meal prep effortless.

Here are 5 high-protein, low-calorie crock pot recipes that will keep you full, fueled, and on track.

1. Crock Pot Salsa Chicken

Why it works: Simple, flavorful, and loaded with lean protein.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup salsa (sugar-free if possible)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Directions:

1. Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
2. Pour salsa over chicken and sprinkle with spices.
3. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. Shred and serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.

Macros (per serving, ~4 oz chicken): ~150 calories, 28g protein, 2g carbs, 2g fat

2. Crock Pot Turkey Chili

Why it works: A hearty, protein-packed dish without excess calories.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
• 1 can black beans (drained)
• 1 can kidney beans (drained)
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Directions:

1. Brown turkey in a skillet before adding to crock pot.
2. Add all ingredients to crock pot, stir, and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
3. Top with chopped cilantro or fat-free Greek yogurt.

Macros (per serving, 1 cup): ~220 calories, 23g protein, 18g carbs, 5g fat

3. Crock Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken with Veggies

Why it works: Balanced, light, and meal-prep friendly.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups chopped zucchini
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Place chicken in crock pot and season with salt, pepper, garlic, oregano, and lemon juice.
2. Cook on low for 5–6 hours.
3. Add veggies in the last 1–2 hours of cooking.

Macros (per serving, ~6 oz chicken + veggies): ~180 calories, 30g protein, 6g carbs, 4g fat

4. Crock Pot Beef & Vegetable Stew (Lean)

Why it works: Comfort food made lean and high-protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean stew beef (round or sirloin)
• 2 cups chopped carrots
• 1 cup celery
• 1 cup green beans
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 bay leaf

Directions:

1. Brown beef lightly before placing in crock pot.
2. Add vegetables, broth, tomato paste, and seasonings.
3. Cook on low for 7–8 hours until beef is tender.

Macros (per serving, 1 cup): ~200 calories, 25g protein, 12g carbs, 6g fat

5. Crock Pot Egg White Frittata

Why it works: A breakfast option that’s low-calorie and protein-packed.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups liquid egg whites
• 1 cup spinach
• ½ cup mushrooms
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup low-fat feta cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Directions:

1. Spray crock pot with non-stick spray.
2. Add all ingredients and stir gently.
3. Cook on low for 2–3 hours until set.
4. Slice and serve warm.

Macros (per serving, 1 slice): ~120 calories, 20g protein, 4g carbs, 3g fat

 

Final Thoughts

These 5 high-protein, low-calorie crock pot recipes make eating healthy simple and sustainable. They’re perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or anyone who wants nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair them with whole grains, extra veggies, or serve as-is for a well-balanced, fitness-friendly lifestyle.