A simple and delicious crockpot chicken recipe that’s savory and perfect for your busy weeknights. This meal is low in carbs and has over 40 grams of protein per serving.

At home, Friday night is always takeout night.

But after a while, I get bored with having the same old chicken. While my family loves it, it sometimes doesn’t fit my health goals.

So, when I want to combine both worlds (my health habits and giving my family takeout night), this is the recipe I always make.

A rich, savory peanut sauce clings to slow-cooked chicken breasts, with warm flavors of sesame, chili paste, and lime.

Each serving gives you around 500 calories and 44 grams of protein, making it a satisfying meal. Perfect for those struggling to reach their protein intake.

I always have it along with some brown rice (or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option) or with rice noodles.

Ingredients and Substitutes

CHICKEN

Red bell pepper, diced (1) – Use yellow or orange bell peppers instead.

Large yellow onion, diced (½)– Swap with red onion or shallots.

Garlic cloves, minced (2) – Replace with garlic powder or garlic paste.

Chicken breasts, skinless and boneless (1.5 lb) – Substitute with chicken thighs or tofu for a plant-based alternative.

SAUCE

Peanut butter (1/2 cup) – Switch with almond butter or sunflower seed butter.

Chicken broth (1/2 cup) – You can also use vegetable broth or water.

Soy sauce, or coconut aminos (1/4 cup) – Replace with tamari or coconut aminos. 

Honey (1 tbsp) – Swap with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Sesame oil (1 tsp) – Substitute with olive oil or avocado oil.

Chili pepper paste (1 tsp) – Sriracha or red pepper flakes are great alternatives.

Lime, juiced (½)– You can also use lemon juice.

A bunch cilantro, chopped – Replace with parsley if you’re not a fan of cilantro.

How to Make Crockpot Peanut Chicken

Step 1. Add the bell peppers, onions, and garlic to the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 2. Then, add the chicken on top.

Step 3. In a small bowl, whisk the peanut butter, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and chili paste.

Step 4. Pour the sauce over the chicken.

Step 5. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours. When it’s ready stir in the lime juice and cilantro.

My Tips & Tricks

1. Whisk the sauce thoroughly: Make sure all the ingredients are fully incorporated to avoid any lumps or uneven flavors.
2. Use chicken breasts of similar size: This is going to help cook them at the same rate and prevent any pieces from drying out before others are done.
3. Shred or slice before serving: Once it’s cooked, you can shred the chicken with two forks.