High Protein Slow Cooker Recipes

These easy, protein-packed slow cooker recipes practically cook themselves, from hearty stews and chilis to pulled chicken and vegetarian options.

Slow cooker recipes can be such a lifesaver on days when you know you won’t have time to cook. I’ve rounded up my favourite set-it-and-forget-it meals that are packed with protein!

Why you’ll love these recipes

• Effortless and filling: These slow cooker meals practically cook themselves, while packing in plenty of protein to keep you full and energized all day.
• Wholesome comfort food: Each recipe delivers a cozy flavour that just warms you up from the inside out.

How to pick a protein-packed recipe

When I’m building a high-protein slow cooker recipe, I always start with the same formula: lean proteins, lots of veggies, and just the right amount of sauce or seasoning.

1. Start with lean protein. Choose chicken breast, ground turkey or pork tenderloin. They stay tender in the slow cooker without getting greasy. For vegetarian options, go for lentils, chickpeas or black beans. They hold up beautifully and soak in all those slow-cooked flavours.
2. Add fibre-rich veggies and smart carbs. Mix in ingredients like quinoa, sweet potatoes or brown rice for balance. The goal is a meal that’s hearty and satisfying, but not too heavy.
3. Watch your liquids. Slow cookers don’t let moisture escape, so you’ll need less broth or sauce than you think. When in doubt, start with less. You can always add more later, but it’s hard to fix a soupy stew.

You’ll get a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s packed with protein, flavour, and perfectly balanced nutrition.

Frequently asked questions

Can I convert stovetop recipes to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! As a general rule, reduce liquids by about one-third (since they won’t evaporate) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you.

Do I need to brown the meat first?

You don’t have to, but it definitely adds flavour. Browning locks in juices and gives your protein that nice caramelized edge. If you’re short on time, you can skip it.

How do I avoid overcooking vegetables?

Add softer veggies like zucchini, peas or spinach near the end of the cooking time. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes can go in at the beginning since they hold up better in long cooking times.

High protein chicken slow cooker recipes

Chicken is a high-protein powerhouse. It’s perfect for soaking up flavour in the slow cooker.

High protein beef slow cooker recipes

Beef delivers big on both flavour and protein, making it perfect for slow cooking. Just let the meat simmer low and slow until perfectly tender.

High protein plant-based slow cooker recipes

Plant-based doesn’t mean low protein. These slow-cooker recipes prove it. With ingredients like lentils, beans and tofu, they’re packed with plant-powered protein.

High protein freezer-friendly slow cooker meals

Slow cooker recipes are already a time-saver, but when they’re freezer-friendly too, they’re a total game changer. These meals can be prepped ahead, frozen, and then tossed straight into the slow cooker when you need them.

High-protein soup and chili slow cooker recipes

Nothing beats a cozy bowl of soup or chili, especially when it’s packed with protein. These slow cooker recipes are hearty, nourishing and perfect for meal prep.

Bonus Recipe

Wake up to breakfast done! This crockpot breakfast casserole is a make-ahead dream: layered with eggs, cheese, veggies and sausage (or plant-based protein), it cooks while you get your morning going.