Are you ready to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds with a delightful dish that’s as colorful as it is nutritious? Introducing the Low Fat Crockpot Colorful Chicken Stew—a culinary masterpiece that combines tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and wholesome carrots, all simmered to perfection in a rich, savory broth. This easy-to-make stew not only packs a punch of flavor but is also a guilt-free option for busy weeknights! With just 15 minutes of prep time and a slow cooker doing the hard work, you’ll soon discover why this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the added fat. Dive into this recipe and let your taste buds embark on a flavor adventure!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by trimming any excess fat and cutting them into 1-inch cubes. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure better seasoning adherence.
- Chop the mixed bell peppers into uniform bite-sized pieces, ensuring a colorful mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for visual appeal and nutrition.
- Slice the carrots into thin, even rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure consistent cooking and even distribution throughout the stew.
- Season the chicken cubes with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gently toss to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
- Place the seasoned chicken cubes at the bottom of the crockpot, creating an even layer.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and sliced carrots on top of the chicken.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes over the vegetables, including all the juice from the can.
- Slowly pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring it covers most of the chicken and vegetables.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it has reached 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Gently stir the stew to combine all ingredients and break up the chicken into smaller pieces if desired.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time during busy weekdays, chop your vegetables and season the chicken the night before. Store them in the refrigerator, so they’re ready to go in the morning.
- Layering is Key: When adding ingredients to the crockpot, layer them properly. Start with the chicken at the bottom, followed by vegetables, and then pour the broth on top. This ensures even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables! Zucchini, green beans, or even sweet potatoes can add a unique twist to your stew while keeping it colorful and nutritious.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Ensure you season your chicken well before cooking. The garlic and onion powder add depth, but you can also experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
- Check for Doneness: Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. If it’s not quite there after 6 hours, give it a little more time.
- Serve with Style: For an elegant touch, garnish your stew with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also adds a pop of color to your dish!
- Leftover Magic: This stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for a quick and delicious meal later in the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 70mg
