In this recipe, lightened-up turkey meatballs cook low and slow in an aromatic pomodoro sauce. In place of pasta, we add lacinato kale and canned chickpeas. This meal is a great one to assemble before the work or school day, then dish up when you’re ready to serve dinner. The meatballs hold well on the warm setting of your slow cooker until you’re ready to eat.

Try this recipe for dinner after a workout. Because the prep is done ahead of time, it’s the perfect opportunity to spend your evening doing a hard workout and then refuel with protein, carbohydrates and a vegetable in a hearty dish.

Active time: 20 minutes | Total time: 4–8 hours

Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs

Ingredients

For the meatballs

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb (454g) ground turkey
• 1/2 cup (54g) plain breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (25g) Parmesan cheese, finely shredded
• 1/4 cup Italian parsley, finely chopped
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 large garlic clove, finely grated
• ¾ tsp salt
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

For the sauce

• 2 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 2 large sprigs fresh basil
• 2 (28-oz/1,588g) cans no salt added crushed tomatoes
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ bunch lacinato kale, stemmed and chopped
• 1 (15-oz/425g) can no salt added chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Optional garnishes (not included in nutrition totals)

• Basil leaves, torn
• freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
• Crusty bread

Directions

Drizzle the olive oil in the bottom of a 6–8-quart slow cooker.

In a large bowl, gently combine the remaining meatball ingredients. Using your hands or a 1 3/4-in ice cream scoop, portion out the meatballs and arrange in the bottom of the slow cooker. You should have about 12 meatballs.

To make the sauce, scatter the sliced garlic and basil sprigs over the meatballs, then pour the crushed tomatoes over the top. Add the onion powder and crushed red pepper and season with salt. Do not stir.

Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6–8 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and register 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. Remove basil sprigs and discard. Gently stir in the kale and chickpeas and cook on high for 30 minutes, or until the kale is wilted. Stir in the butter until melted and season the sauce with salt, if needed.

Ladle the meatballs and sauce into four shallow bowls. Garnish with torn basil leaves and freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve right away, passing slices of crusty bread to mop up the sauce (optional).

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 3 meatballs, plus 1 cup of sauce

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 499; Total Fat: 20g; Saturated Fat: 6g; Monounsaturated Fat: 8g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g; Cholesterol: 147mg; Sodium: 910mg; Carbohydrate: 46g; Dietary Fiber: 15g; Sugar: 14g; Protein: 36g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 1687mg; Iron: 24%; Vitamin A: 93%; Vitamin C: 28%; Calcium: 13%

Originally published September 22, 2020; Updated May 2026

The post Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

This lightly sweetened breakfast porridge uses short-grain brown rice, giving it a pleasant nutty bite. Brown rice contains fiber and antioxidants, so it’s a good item to keep in your pantry for this recipe and beyond (1). Top this creamy coconut milk porridge with Greek yogurt for additional protein.

Active time: 5 minutes | Total time: 1 hour

Pressure Cooker Brown Rice Breakfast Porridge

Ingredients

• 1 cup (180g) short-grain brown rice, rinsed
• 1 14-oz. can (440ml) unsweetened light coconut milk
• 3 tbsp (60g) pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted, roughly chopped
• 1 green apple, very thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions

In the bowl of a pressure cooker, add the brown rice, coconut milk, maple syrup, salt, and 2 cups of water. 

Secure the lid and pressure cook on Manual for 30 minutes at high pressure. Make sure the pressure valve is sealed.

When the cooking program ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes, then move the pressure release valve to venting to release any remaining steam.

Remove the lid and stir the porridge. Scoop into bowls, top with Greek yogurt and garnish with toasted walnuts, and apple. Dust with cinnamon and serve.

Serves: 6 | Serving Size: About 3/4 cup porridge, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt + toppings

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 257; Total Fat: 9g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 1g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 3mg; Sodium: 226mg; Carbohydrate: 39g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 13g; Protein: 9g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 9%; Iron: 2%; Potassium: 182mg; Vitamin C: 3%

Originally published February 2021; Updated May 2026

The post Pressure Cooker Brown Rice Breakfast Porridge appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Layers of lean ground turkey-filled sauce, creamy basil-flecked ricotta and melty mozzarella are hidden in these delicious peppers. The Instant Pot cuts the cook time to just 6 minutes, so they can be yours any weeknight when a lasagna craving hits. Be sure to use a thin bottled marinara sauce, so the Instant Pot can create enough steam to come to pressure (Note: Thick, chunky sauces won’t work).

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 1 hour

Pressure Cooker Lasagna Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients

• 4 medium bell peppers
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb 85% lean ground turkey
• 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp (293g) thin, no-sugar added marinara sauce, divided
• 1 cup (246g) part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup (12g) fresh basil, chopped and divided
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup (57g) part-skim mozzarella, shredded
• 1/4 cup (60g) low-sodium chicken broth

Directions

Cut the top 1/2-inch off the peppers and reserve for another use. Scoop out the seeds and white membranes inside the peppers and discard.

Put the olive oil in the Instant Pot, select saute, and adjust to high heat. When the oil is hot, add the ground turkey, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 minute. Press Cancel. Add 2/3 cup marinara sauce to the pot and stir to combine. Spoon half of the turkey-marinara sauce evenly into the peppers and set aside.

In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta, half of the basil, and the egg until thoroughly combined.

Spoon the ricotta mixture into the peppers. Spoon the remaining meat sauce into the peppers over the ricotta, making sure to scrape the pot clean. Sprinkle the mozzarella on top of each pepper, pressing the cheese down slightly so it stays inside the peppers.

Pour the remaining 1/2 cup marinara sauce and the chicken broth into the Instant Pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Place a trivet with handles in the pot and arrange the peppers on the trivet, cheese-side up. Lock the lid and turn the pressure valve to sealing. Select Pressure Cook, adjust to high pressure, and cook for 6 minutes.

When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure. Carefully transfer the peppers to plates using a large slotted spoon and set aside. Remove the trivet from the pot.

Select Saute and adjust to high heat. Simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until slightly reduced, about 2 minutes. For browned, bubbly cheese, place the peppers under a high broiler for 2–3 minutes. Spoon the sauce over the peppers, garnish with the remaining basil, and serve.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 pepper, 3 tbsp sauce

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 442; Total Fat: 28g; Saturated Fat: 9g; Monounsaturated Fat: 9g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g; Cholesterol: 169mg; Sodium: 745mg; Carbohydrate: 17g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 10g; Protein: 33g

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin D: 8%; Calcium: 32%; Potassium: 864mg; Vitamin A: 11%; Vitamin C: 196%

Originally published February 2020; Updated May 2026

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Use your Instant Pot to put together this whole-grain pasta meal in just 35 minutes from start to finish. For best results, use small boneless, skinless chicken breasts or cut large chicken breasts horizontally into thinner pieces.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes

Pressure Cooker Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp (30g) no-salt added tomato paste
• 4 cups (12 oz./340g) dry whole-grain rotini pasta
• 1/4 cup (27g) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1 tbsp (15g) olive oil
• 1/2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
• 1/2 tsp salt 
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups (50g) baby spinach
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

Directions

In the pot of an electric pressure cooker, whisk together the broth and tomato paste until the tomato paste is dissolved. Add the pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Place the bell peppers on top of the pasta. Season the chicken with the garlic powder and place on top of the pasta mixture; do not stir.

Lock the lid and select the Manual/Pressure Cook function. Adjust to high pressure and set the timer for 5 minutes. Make sure the steam valve is in the “sealing” position.

When the cooking time is up, carefully quick-release the pressure.

Unlock the lid and ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 °F.  Transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board. Slice the chicken into bite-size pieces and return them to the pot. Add the spinach and cheese and stir until the spinach is wilted. Serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 2 cups pasta mixture

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 535; Total Fat: 11g; Saturated Fat: 2g; Monounsaturated Fat: 4g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 87mg; Sodium: 540mg; Carbohydrate: 69g; Dietary Fiber: 11g; Sugar: 5g; Protein: 41g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 7%; Iron: 24%; Potassium: 723mg; Vitamin A: 101%; Vitamin C: 90%

Originally published March 2018; Updated May 2026

The post Pressure Cooker Chicken Pasta appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Calling all savory breakfast fans! Make these easy do-ahead breakfast sausage patties and you’ll wonder why you ever went with the store-bought variety. With a touch of sweetness from maple syrup, a bit of savory sage, and 21 grams of protein per serving, they’re just the thing to fuel your morning. Plus you can freeze the unused patties for future breakfasts.

Pair this with some fruit and whole grain toast for a complete meal.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes

Turkey Breakfast Sausage

Ingredients

• 1 lb (454g) ground 85/15 turkey
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseeds
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground sage
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
• Cooking spray

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, maple syrup, parsley, flaxseeds, salt, sage, garlic powder, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Stir until combined.

Using a 1/4-cup measuring cup, portion the mixture and form into patties about 1/2-inch thick.

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray. Cook the patties for about 3 minutes per side, or until browned, crusty, and no longer pink in the center with an internal temperature of 165°F. Reduce the heat if the patties begin to brown too quickly.

To freeze, arrange the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, turning occasionally, for 10–12 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (73°C).

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 2 patties

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 272; Total Fat: 18g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 0g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 85mg; Sodium: 660mg; Carbohydrate: 5g; Dietary Fiber: 1g; Sugar: 3g; Protein: 21g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 3%; Iron: 14%; Potassium: 73mg; Vitamin A: 7%; Vitamin C: 9%

Originally published November 2020; Updated May 2026

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Oh, the simple joy of cozying up next to a bowl of hearty black bean soup! Ours is slow cooked and bold with onion, peppers, garlic, chile, a dash of cumin and served with creamy avocado for a delicious and nutritious meal.

RD Tip: Black beans are a protein-fiber powerhouse and deliver a host of micronutrients like folate, potassium and magnesium (1).

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes

Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 lb (454g) dried black beans, sorted and rinsed
• 1 large (150g) onion, coarsely chopped
• 1 medium (120g) green bell pepper, coarsely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups (960g) low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 2 tbsp chopped chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
• 3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp light sour cream
• 1 small avocado, diced
• 6 fresh cilantro sprigs for garnish (optional)

Directions

Place beans in a large bowl or stock pot, adding water to cover by 2 inches. Soak for 12 hours; drain and discard water.

TIME-SAVING TIP: Don’t have 12 hours? To quick-soak beans, place beans in a stock pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat; reduce heat and simmer briskly for 5 minutes. Remove from heat; cover and let soak for 1 hour. Drain and discard water.

Combine beans, onion, bell pepper and garlic in a 4-quart slow cooker. Stir in broth and cumin. Cover and cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 5 hours until the beans are tender. Stir in chipotle, cilantro, lime juice and salt.

For a smooth, thick texture, blend mixture in slow cooker with an immersion blender for 30 seconds until desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a blender. Remove stopper from lid and cover with a kitchen towel (hot steam will cause the lid to pop off if not vented); blend until smooth.

Top each serving with 1 tsp sour cream, 2 tbsp chopped avocado and a sprig of cilantro.

Serves: 6 |  Serving Size: 1 ⅓  cups + 1 tsp sour cream + 2 tbsp diced avocados

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 344; Total Fat: 6g; Saturated Fat: 1g; Monounsaturated Fat: 3g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 2mg; Sodium: 511mg; Carbohydrate: 58g; Dietary Fiber: 15g; Sugar: 5g; Protein: 19g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 1532mg; Iron: 30%; Vitamin A: 105%; Vitamin C: 47%; Calcium: 16% 

Originally published May 1, 2020; Updated April 2026

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Reminiscent of creamy beef stroganoff without the beef, this Instant Pot recipe uses whole-grain pasta, mushrooms and herb and garlic spreadable cheese to get dinner on the table fast. Use gourmet mushrooms instead of cremini if you’re feeling fancy.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes

Pressure Cooker Creamy Mushroom and Kale Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups (280g) cremini mushrooms, cut into quarters
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 2 tsp fresh thyme, roughly chopped
• 8 oz. (227g) whole-wheat rotini
• 1 1/2 cups (355ml) low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper
• 4 cups (100g) baby kale
• 4 tbsp (58g) herb and garlic spreadable cheese

Directions

Select the sauté function on the Instant Pot and adjust to high heat. Add the olive oil, mushrooms, onions, and salt and cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms begin to release their juices. Add the garlic and thyme and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

Add 1 cup of water and simmer for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Press cancel.

Add the pasta, vegetable broth, and crushed red pepper and stir to combine. Lock the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.

Carefully quick-release the pressure, loosely draping a towel over the vent to catch any starchy liquid. Remove the lid and stir in the kale and spreadable cheese until combined. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes to allow the pasta to finish cooking and absorb the liquid.

Serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 1/4 cups pasta

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 319; Total Fat: 12g; Saturated Fat: 5g; Monounsaturated Fat: 2g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 15mg; Sodium: 450mg; Carbohydrate: 47g; Dietary Fiber: 9g; Sugar: 4g; Protein: 12g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 13%; Iron: 15%; Potassium: 703mg; Vitamin A: 3%; Vitamin C: 47%

Originally published: September 15, 2020; Updated May 2026

The post Pressure Cooker Creamy Mushroom and Kale Pasta appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

This cooling noodle salad is a popular dish during the dog days of summer in Thailand — plus, at less than 400 calories, it’s a filling main with 26 grams of protein. Bean thread noodles — also called glass noodles or cellophane noodles — are clear noodles made from mung bean flour. They have a satisfying chew, but very few calories. Look for them where Asian ingredients are sold.

Active time: 25 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes

Cold Thai Noodle Salad With Shrimp and Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 oz. (114g) ground chicken or pork
• 8 oz. cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
• 4 oz. (114g) bean thread noodles, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes
• 1 cup (180g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 2 celery ribs, thinly sliced
• 2 small shallots, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (8g) fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• 3 tbsp (45g) lime juice
• 2 tbsp (30g) fish sauce
• 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1–2 red Thai chili peppers or 1 medium serrano pepper, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped

Directions

Heat a large pan over medium high heat. Once hot, add the oil. When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the ground chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a large serving bowl along with the cooked shrimp. 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the soaked noodles. Simmer until al dente, about 30 seconds. Drain, reserving 2 tbsp of the cooking water, set aside. Snip the noodles with clean scissors into 4-inch lengths and add to the bowl with the chicken and shrimp. Add the tomatoes, red bell peppers, celery, shallots and cilantro.

In a small bowl, combine the reserved cooking water, lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, sugar and chili peppers, and stir to dissolve the sugar. Toss with the noodle mixture and divide evenly amongst 4 bowls. Top each bowl with 2 tbsp of peanuts and serve cold.

Serves: 4 | Serving size: 2 cups salad + 2 tbsp peanuts

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 366; Total Fat: 12g; Saturated Fat: 2g; Monounsaturated Fat: 0g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 132mg; Sodium: 672mg; Carbohydrate: 42g; Dietary Fiber: 5g; Sugar: 8g, Protein: 26g

Originally published September 13, 2018; Updated February 2026

The post Cold Thai Noodle Salad With Shrimp and Chicken appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Stir a few ingredients together in your slow cooker, add chicken breasts and you’ve got a chicken dinner with a velvety Thai inspired peanut sauce ready when you are. We add crisp-tender broccoli, but green beans, carrots, baby corn or a long list of other veggies are welcome. The trick is to briefly microwave or steam the veggies and stir them through the sauce right before serving so they’re not overcooked. Serve over brown rice or quinoa.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 4 hours, 10 minutes (low) or 2 hours, 10 minutes (high)

Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken With Broccoli

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup light coconut milk
• 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tsp Thai red curry paste
• 1 tsp lemongrass paste
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Directions

In a 6-quart slow cooker, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, red curry paste, and lemongrass paste until smooth. Stir in the onion and garlic. Add the chicken and stir to coat.

Cover and cook on low for 3½–4 hours or on high for 2–2½ hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and slice or shred into bite-size pieces. Pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1 tbsp cold water until smooth, then stir into the saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

While the sauce thickens, combine the broccoli with 2 tbsp water in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 2–3 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Alternatively, steam the broccoli on the stovetop for about 3 minutes. Drain.

Arrange the chicken and broccoli on a serving platter or divide between bowls. Pour the sauce over the top and serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 4 oz. chicken, 1 cup broccoli, 1/4 cup sauce

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 320; Total Fat: 14g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Monounsaturated Fat: 5g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g; Cholesterol: 83mg; Sodium: 369mg; Carbohydrate: 17g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 7g; Protein: 32g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 7%; Iron: 8%; Potassium: 809mg; Vitamin A: 1%; Vitamin C: 140%

Originally published: January 17, 2020; Updated May 2026

The post Slow Cooker Peanut Chicken With Broccoli appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

Millet is a chronically underappreciated grain, and it deserves a place on your table. The tiny yellow grains are gluten-free and have a neutral, sweet flavor that supports whatever seasonings you add to it. In this easy, make-ahead porridge, the grains fall apart to make it thick and creamy, with a hint of apple sweetness. Apples, cranberries and cinnamon give it a warming, wintry finish.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes

Millet Porridge With Cinnamon-Cranberry Apples

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) millet
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup (240g) apple juice
• 1 5.3-oz. (143g) container 0% Greek yogurt
• 2 scoops whey protein powder (unflavored)
• 1 large apple, chopped
• 1/4 cup (40g) dried cranberries
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions

Rinse the millet in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well. Place in a small pot and add 1 cup water and the apple juice. Bring to a boil over high heat, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently, until the millet is tender and beginning to break down.

Remove from the heat and stir in the Greek yogurt and protein powder until a thick, creamy porridge forms. Keep warm.

In a small bowl, combine the apple, dried cranberries, and cinnamon and toss to coat.

Serve the porridge topped with the apple mixture.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 1 cup porridge with 1/3 cup apple topping

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 327; Total Fat: 2g; Saturated Fat: 0g; Monounsaturated Fat: 0g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 16mg; Sodium: 62mg; Carbohydrate: 59g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugar: 22g; Protein: 17g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 10%; Iron: 13%; Potassium: 322mg; Vitamin C: 15%

Originally published December 5, 2020; Updated June 2026

The post Millet Porridge With Cinnamon-Cranberry Apples appeared first on MyFitnessPal Blog.

This recipe requires just one pan and six ingredients, yet provides a serving of vegetables and more than 34 grams of protein. If you’re watching your carbs, replace the brown rice with cauliflower rice or extra vegetables.

Active time: 10 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes

Sheet Pan Chicken Teriyaki with Vegetables

Ingredients

• Cooking spray 
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut in half lengthwise
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 4 cups cooked brown rice, for serving

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil and coat with cooking spray.

Spread the carrots on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 5 minutes. Add the chicken, broccoli, and bell pepper to the pan, drizzle with the teriyaki sauce, and toss to coat evenly. Spread everything in a single layer and roast for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender.

Divide the rice among four bowls, top with the chicken and vegetables, and serve immediately.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: about 4 oz chicken, 1 cup vegetables, 1 cup rice

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 438; Total Fat: 6g; Saturated Fat: 1g; Monounsaturated Fat: 1g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 83mg; Sodium: 679mg; Carbohydrate: 63g; Dietary Fiber: 7g; Sugar: 11g; Protein: 34g

Nutrition Bonus: Calcium: 8%; Iron: 12%; Potassium: 949mg; Vitamin A: 78%; Vitamin C: 166%

Originally published: June 20, 2019; Updated May 2026

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If you own a slow cooker, you know it’s probably the most convenient and versatile device ever created. (And it’s the perfect way to make great-tasting meals without being in the kitchen for hours!) Tonight, enjoy our slow-cooked chicken and lentil chili, a nutritious dish that’s hearty, healthy and full of budget-friendly veggies.

RD Tip: You’ll notice that we don’t add the tomato sauce until the beans have had some time to cook. This is because adding dried black beans to the slow cooker at the same time as an acidic ingredient (tomato sauce) can prevent the beans from ever fully softening.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 8 hours, 15 minutes

Slow Cooker Chicken and Lentil Chili

Ingredients

• 1 medium (110g) onion, chopped
• 2 cups (255g) chopped carrots
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb. (455g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 cup (190g) dried brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup (190g) dried black beans, rinsed
• 4 cups (960g) no-salt-added, fat-free chicken broth (certified gluten-free if necessary)
• 1 8 oz.can (227g) no-salt-added tomato sauce
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 1/2 tbsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (120g) reduced-fat sour cream
• 1/2 cup (57g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves (or more to taste)

Directions

Coat slow cooker with cooking spray. Place onion, carrots and garlic in the bottom. Top with chicken, lentils and black beans. Stir in broth, chili powder, cumin and salt.

Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours, adding the tomato sauce during the last hour or so of cooking.  Stir before serving. Top each serving with 1 tbsp sour cream and 1 tbsp cheese. Garnish with a few fresh cilantro leaves per serving.

Serves: 8 |  Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups 

Nutrition (Per serving): Calories: 339; Total Fat: 7g; Saturated Fat: 3g; Monounsaturated Fat: 1g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g; Cholesterol: 40mg; Sodium: 419mg; Carbohydrate: 42g; Dietary Fiber: 14g; Sugar: 5g; Protein: 28g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 1036mg; Iron: 28%; Vitamin A: 130%; Vitamin C: 10%; Calcium: 16%

Originally published October 19, 2016; Updated May 2026

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