The ketogenic diet, or keto diet, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, including weight loss and improved blood sugar control. The keto diet is high in fats, moderate in protein, and very low in carbohydrates. This dietary approach shifts the body's primary fuel source from glucose to ketones, produced from fat breakdown. Embracing a keto lifestyle doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or convenience, especially with the help of a crock-pot, also known as a slow cooker. Crock-Pots simplify meal preparation, allowing you to create delicious, keto-friendly dishes with minimal effort. This article explores a variety of keto crock-pot recipes, from savory chicken to hearty pot roast, providing options for every palate.
Low Carb Slow Cooker Greek Chicken
This recipe offers an effortless and flavorful dinner option, ideal for busy weeknights. Infused with lemon, spices, and garlic, the chicken becomes tender and juicy.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Fresh lemons (for juice, zest, and slices)
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Paprika
- Oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
Optional additions include bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and artichoke hearts for added flavor and nutrients while keeping the carb count low.
Instructions
- Spray the crock-pot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the chicken pieces in the crock-pot.
- In a medium bowl, combine crushed garlic, spices, olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk to combine.
- Pour the lemon sauce over the chicken.
- Slice the remaining lemon and place the slices on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking times may vary.
- Spoon the chicken and sauce into a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Greek chicken over cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal or with regular white rice. Other low-carb side dishes include parmesan shredded Brussels sprouts, cauliflower steaks romano, or zucchini and feta stir-fry. A green salad complements the dish perfectly.
Leftover Ideas
Leftover Greek chicken can be transformed into a lemon chicken salad by combining it with mayonnaise, celery, chopped onion, and sliced almonds. Alternatively, add the chicken to a soup with chicken broth, vegetables, and seasonings.
Read also: Creamy Keto Ranch Chicken Recipe
Keto Crock-Pot Crack Chicken
This recipe replicates the flavors of a loaded baked potato while remaining keto-friendly. It's an easy, one-step slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients
- Boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Cream cheese (can substitute with mascarpone or ricotta cheese)
- Bacon (avoid maple-cured bacon)
- Green onions
- Dried parsley
- Chives
- Dill weed
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
A keto-friendly ranch seasoning mix can be used as an alternative to the herbs and spices, ensuring it contains no added sugars, wheat flour, or corn starch.
Instructions
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the spices on top of the chicken.
- Cut up the cream cheese and distribute it around the chicken.
- Cook on low for an extended period.
- When ready to eat, shred the chicken.
- Add the bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover and allow the cheese to melt before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with mashed cauliflower or broccoli for a complete keto meal.
Tips and Variations
- For a skillet version, use shredded rotisserie chicken and mix it with the other ingredients in a skillet until melted.
- If using a block of cheddar cheese, roughly chop it before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Pork loin can be used as a substitute for chicken.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover crack chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat to melt the cheese.
Using Frozen Chicken
Frozen chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but increase the cooking time accordingly. Ensure the chicken is boneless and skinless.
Read also: Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe
Slow Cooker Low Carb Keto Pot Roast
This recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a keto-friendly dish, perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
- Tougher cut of beef with marbling
- Butter
- Ranch dressing mix (or homemade seasoning)
- Pepperoncini peppers
- Xanthan Gum (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Place the roast in the slow cooker.
- Add all other ingredients, placing the stick of butter on top.
- Cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 9-10 hours, or until fork-tender.
- Shred the pot roast with two forks.
- If desired, thicken the gravy with a small amount of Xanthan Gum.
Tips
- Searing the roast beforehand is optional.
- If the roast is not fork-tender after the allotted cooking time, continue to cook it longer.
- A tougher cut of beef with lots of marbling makes a better roast.
Serving and Storing
This pot roast stays good for 3-4 days in the fridge or 5-6 months in the freezer in a freezer-safe container.
Additional Keto Crock-Pot Recipe Ideas
- Keto Mexican Chicken Soup: A slightly spicy and creamy soup.
- Keto Crustless Pizza Chicken Casserole: Tastes like pizza without the crust.
- Pork Curry: Made with Indian spices.
- Crock-Pot Beef and Broccoli: A copycat recipe with Asian flavors.
Read also: Crock Pot Keto Chicken