Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken : A Healthy, Flavorful Dinner

Looking for a healthy, flavorful dinner that requires little prep? Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken is the answer! With a deliciously sweet and spicy sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy peanuts, this dish delivers all the bold flavors of classic Kung Pao chicken, but in a healthier, slow-cooked version. It’s the perfect solution for a busy weeknight or when you want a hearty yet healthy meal.

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Why You’ll Love Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken

If you enjoy Chinese food recipes but want a lighter, healthier version, this slow cooker Kung Pao chicken is a must-try. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Healthy Slow Cooker Meal: This recipe uses lean chicken breast and a sweet and spicy sauce that’s lower in calories and fat. Plus, cooking it in the slow cooker helps lock in flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
• Packed with Flavor: With a tangy and spicy sauce, crunchy peanuts, and fresh veggies, this dish delivers a bold taste without the guilt.
• Easy to Make: Simply toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. It’s an effortless way to make a healthy crockpot dinner that the whole family will love. For another healthy crockpot idea, try our Healthy Zucchini Beef Stir Fry.
• Versatile: This dish can be served with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa for a complete, balanced meal.

Who This Recipe Is For

This Kung Pao chicken is perfect for anyone who:

• Loves Chinese food but wants a healthier version of classic takeout dishes. You can try other great Asian-inspired recipes like Mapo Tofu for a flavorful twist.
• Wants a quick and easy meal: The slow cooker does all the work, so you can set it and forget it. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a no-fuss dinner.
• Follows a healthy eating plan: With lean chicken and a lightened-up sauce, this dish is great for those following flat belly foods or healthy crockpot recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this skinny slow cooker Kung Pao chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (optional, for extra spice)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• ⅓ cup roasted peanuts
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
• 2 teaspoons water

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s healthier than traditional Kung Pao chicken. If you’re interested in other slow cooker meals, check out our Healthy Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes.

Ingredient Notes and Variations

• Chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly in this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful dish.
• Vegetables: The bell peppers add color and crunch, but you can swap them out for other vegetables like zucchini or snap peas.
• Sweet and Spicy Sauce: Adjust the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. For a milder sauce, you can leave them out entirely.
• Peanuts: You can substitute the peanuts with cashews or almonds if you prefer. For a nut-free option, simply omit the nuts entirely.

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Slow cooker: A 6-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe, but you can adjust the size based on the number of servings you need.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping the bell peppers and chicken.
• Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate measurements of the sauce ingredients.
• Small bowl: For mixing the cornstarch and water to thicken the sauce at the end.

With these tools, you’ll be ready to prepare this quick and easy dinner!

Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Chop the bell peppers and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Add to the Slow Cooker

Place the chopped chicken, bell peppers, and garlic in the slow cooker. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Cook

Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir to coat everything evenly. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the slow cooker and stir. Let the sauce cook on high for another 15 minutes, until it thickens.

Step 5: Add the Peanuts

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the roasted peanuts and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Kung Pao chicken over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa. Garnish with additional peanuts or green onions if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken

• Customize the Heat: Adjust the spice level by controlling the amount of sriracha or red pepper flakes. You can always add more at the end if you want extra heat.
• Use Chicken Thighs: For a more flavorful dish, substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They’ll add juiciness and extra richness to the dish.
• Don’t Overcook: Avoid overcooking the chicken in the slow cooker. If cooked too long, it can become dry. Check the chicken after 4 hours on low to ensure it’s perfectly tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Thickening the Sauce: For the best texture, be sure to thicken the sauce with cornstarch to create that glossy, smooth finish.
• Overloading the Slow Cooker: If your slow cooker is too full, the chicken may not cook evenly. Make sure to follow the recipe’s ingredient amounts for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

This Kung Pao chicken is delicious on its own but pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
• Steamed vegetables: Try serving with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for extra veggies.
• Egg rolls: Pair it with homemade or store-bought egg rolls for an authentic takeout experience.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

• Add Vegetables: For more veggies, try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas to the slow cooker.
• Sweet & Sour: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a bit more honey or even some pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
• Noodles: Serve this dish over lo mein noodles for a fun twist on the classic.

How to Store and Reheat

• Store: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You can add a splash of soy sauce or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much when refrigerated.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch, store it in individual containers, and you’ll have lunch or dinner ready for the next few days. The flavors even get better as it sits!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without peanuts?

Yes, you can omit the peanuts for a nut-free version. You can also substitute them with cashews or almonds, or add tofu for a protein boost.

Can I use frozen chicken?

While fresh chicken works best, you can use frozen chicken breasts if needed. Just be sure to add an extra 30 minutes of cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly.

Final Thoughts: Why Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken Is a Keeper

This Skinny Slow Cooker Kung Pao Chicken is a healthy, flavorful alternative to traditional takeout. With its sweet and spicy sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy peanuts, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings without all the calories. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this dish is sure to become a staple in your healthy dinner rotation.

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