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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    31 Easy Summer Dinners: Slow Cooker Recipes You Need to Try

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on June 12, 2025, updated May 27, 2025 - Leave a Comment

    Summer is the perfect time to enjoy easy and delicious meals without spending too much time in the kitchen. Slow cooker recipes are a great way to prepare satisfying dinners with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the warm weather and time with family and friends. Here are 31 simple slow cooker recipes that will keep your evenings stress-free and flavorful.

    Slow Cooker Hot Chili

    Slow Cooker Hot Chili.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    This chili packs a punch with the spicy kick of serrano peppers and is loaded with flavor from crispy bacon. It's a hearty dish that warms you up on a cool summer evening. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker. Just set it and let it simmer while you enjoy your day. This is a great option for summer meals when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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    White Chicken Chili

    White Chicken Chili .
    Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud.

    This white chicken chili in the slow cooker is a warm and filling dish that everyone will enjoy. With just a few basic ingredients, it packs a lot of flavor and is super easy to prepare. The creamy texture makes it a satisfying meal for any day. It's perfect for summer when you want something comforting without heating up the kitchen. This is a great option for busy nights when you want a delicious dinner with minimal effort.

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    Carnitas

    Carnitas (Mexican Pulled Pork).
    Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate.

    Skip the restaurant and enjoy homemade pulled pork instead. This dish is simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for any meal. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to develop without much effort. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this pulled pork is sure to please everyone. Enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss of dining out.

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    Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

    Chicken fajitas.
    Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

    This dish features tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and onions simmered with a flavorful seasoning. It's a simple meal that comes together easily in a slow cooker. Perfect for those warm summer days when you want to keep things light and easy. You can set it up in the morning and let it cook while you go about your day. Enjoy a tasty dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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    Slow Cooker Sour Cream & Onion Chicken

    Slow Cooker Sour Cream & Onion Chicken.
    Photo Credit: The Quicker Kitchen.

    Sour cream and onion chicken in a slow cooker is an easy dish that packs a lot of flavor without needing much work. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys the familiar taste of sour cream and onion chips. This recipe is great for busy nights when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Just set it up and let the slow cooker do its magic. You'll end up with a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

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    Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Wings

    Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Wings.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    Homemade BBQ chicken wings are easy to prepare in the slow cooker using just a few simple ingredients. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a casual night in. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to blend nicely, resulting in tender and tasty wings. They’re a great choice for summer get-togethers or game day snacks. Enjoy these wings as a fun appetizer that everyone will love.

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    Slow Cooker Lamb Curry

    Slow Cooker Lamb Curry.
    Photo Credit: Veena Azmanov.

    This Indian lamb curry is easy to prepare by just adding everything to the slow cooker and letting it do its thing. The lamb cooks slowly with flavorful spices and creamy coconut milk, resulting in tender meat. It's a great option for a relaxed meal without much effort. The combination of spices creates a warm and inviting aroma in your kitchen. Enjoy a comforting dish that’s perfect for any day.

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    Korean Slow Cooker Gochujang Chicken

    Korean Slow Cooker Gochujang Chicken.
    Photo Credit: The Candid Cooks.

    This Korean-inspired slow cooker gochujang chicken is packed with flavor and only requires 10 ingredients. It's perfect for serving over rice, on tostadas, or in tacos. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to blend together beautifully, creating a delicious meal with minimal effort. This dish is great for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

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    Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs

    Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs.
    Photo Credit: Thirty Something Supermom.

    This recipe is a simple way to prepare chicken thighs that everyone in the family will enjoy. It’s perfect for summer days when you want to keep things easy and relaxed. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to develop without much effort. This dish is great for busy nights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll love how tender and flavorful the chicken turns out.

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    Cajun Chicken Alfredo

    Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo
    Photo Credit: Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons.

    Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delicious dish that combines creamy flavors with a bit of spice. It features smoked sausage and a cheesy sauce that brings everything together nicely. This recipe is perfect for summer days when you want a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Just set it up in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. It's a satisfying option that everyone will enjoy.

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    Crockpot Enchiladas

    Crockpot Enchiladas.
    Photo Credit: An Edible Mosaic.

    Crockpot enchiladas are a simple and tasty dish that brings together ground beef, veggies, enchilada sauce, spices, corn tortillas, and cheese. This meal cooks all in one pot, making it a breeze to prepare. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen. You can also make it ahead of time for meal prep. Enjoy a comforting dinner with minimal effort!

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    Slow Cooker Shredded Chile Chicken

    Slow Cooker Shredded Chile Chicken.
    Photo Credit: Nibble and Dime.

    This shredded chicken is super tender and packed with flavor, thanks to the green chiles, chili powder, cumin, and garlic. It's a great option for quick and easy meals throughout the week. You can use it in tacos, salads, or sandwiches. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without a lot of work. Enjoy the convenience of a slow cooker while savoring a delicious meal.

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    Crock Pot Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken

    Crock Pot Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken.
    Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate.

    Hawaiian Pineapple chicken is a delicious dish that everyone will enjoy. It requires only a few minutes of prep, and then your slow cooker or instant pot takes care of the rest. This meal is perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet pineapple and tender chicken creates a satisfying flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s a great option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

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    Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup

    Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup.
    Photo Credit: Valerie's Kitchen.

    This soup combines all the great flavors of stuffed bell peppers, but it's made in a slow cooker for an easy meal. It's perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something filling without spending too much time in the kitchen. Just throw everything in the Crock Pot and let it simmer until it's ready. The result is a warm and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. This is a great option for summer when you want a comforting meal without heating up the house.

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    Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Sandwiches

    Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Sandwiches.
    Photo Credit: Maria's Mixing Bowl.

    Slow Cooker Chicken Caesar Sandwiches bring together the classic flavors of a Caesar salad in a fun, easy-to-eat form. You’ll enjoy tender, juicy chicken topped with fresh lettuce, parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing. All of this is served on soft brioche buns that make each bite satisfying. This is a great option for busy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of work. Perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone.

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    Southwestern Stuffed Peppers with Cheese

    Southwestern Stuffed Peppers with Cheese.
    Photo Credit: Add Salt & Serve.

    Southwestern-style stuffed peppers with cheese are perfect for the slow cooker. They are packed with beans, corn, tomatoes, and rice, making them a hearty meal. These cheesy stuffed peppers are easy to prepare and cook while you go about your day. They offer a great combination of flavors that everyone will enjoy. This dish is a fantastic option for busy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of work.

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    Slow Cooker Chicken Curry

    Slow Cooker Chicken Curry..
    Photo Credit: 4 Sons R Us.

    Slow cooker chicken curry is a warm and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. It features tender chicken, a variety of vegetables, and a blend of spices that come together beautifully. This simple crockpot meal is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of work. Just set it up and let the slow cooker do its magic. It’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your home.

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    Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken

    Slow Cooker Balsamic Chicken.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    Turn ordinary chicken breasts into tasty balsamic chicken with just a few ingredients. This delicious recipe captures the balsamic flavor thanks to Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and balsamic vinegar. Your whole family is sure to think this recipe is absolutely delicious!

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    Slow Cooker Apple Pie Baked Beans

    Slow Cooker Apple Pie Baked Beans.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker

    Slow Cooker Apple Pie Baked Beans are a great side dish for summer gatherings or any meal during the warm months. This dish combines baked beans with apple pie filling, barbecue sauce, and a few other ingredients, all cooked together in the crockpot. It's an easy way to add a unique twist to your barbecue or picnic spread. The flavors blend nicely, creating a comforting and satisfying option. Enjoy these beans alongside your favorite grilled foods or as part of a potluck.

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    Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

    Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
    Photo Credit: Dinner at the Zoo.

    Flank steak is simmered with garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and soy sauce, creating a dish that brings the flavors of a Chinese restaurant right to your table. This recipe is perfect for summer, as it allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without heating up the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, making it easy to prepare. You’ll love how tender the steak becomes after cooking for hours. This is a great option for a satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy.

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    Crockpot Greek Chicken

    Crockpot Greek Chicken.
    Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate.

    Slow cooker season is here, and this Crockpot Greek Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with fresh and vibrant flavors that everyone will enjoy. You can set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious meal waiting for you. This dish is not only easy to make but also satisfying and healthy. It’s a great way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean without spending hours in the kitchen.

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    Loaded Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

    Loaded Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes.
    Photo credit: Neighbor Food Blog.

    This recipe is a hit with families and only requires 15 minutes of prep time. It’s perfect for summer days when you want something comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it a great option for busy evenings. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love. This is a great choice for those warm nights when you want to keep things simple.

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    Slow Cooker Bruschetta Chicken

    Slow Cooker Bruschetta Chicken.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    This dish features chicken cooked slowly in a rich mix of tomatoes and garlic, creating a comforting meal. Topped with melted mozzarella cheese, it brings a taste of Italy right to your table. The homemade tomato sauce adds a fresh and vibrant flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. It's a simple yet satisfying option for dinner, especially during the summer months. Enjoy this easy recipe that requires minimal effort and delivers great results.

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    Slow Cooker Corn Chowder

    Slow Cooker Corn Chowder.
    Photo Credit: Everyday Eileen.

    Crockpot Corn Chowder is a creamy soup that brings the comfort of a restaurant dish right to your kitchen. It's easy to whip up, making it perfect for a relaxing meal at home. This soup is packed with sweet corn and rich flavors, creating a satisfying bowl that everyone will enjoy. With minimal effort, you can have a warm and hearty dish ready to serve. It's a great choice for those warm summer days when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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    Slow Cooker Chicken in a Hurry

    Slow Cooker Chicken in a Hurry.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    This dish is a simple and tasty slow cooker recipe that highlights tender chicken. It combines onion soup mix, apricot preserves, and Russian dressing to create a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for summer, this meal is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort. Just set it up in the morning, and by dinner time, you'll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. It's a great option for busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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    Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken

    Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken.
    Photo Credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

    This chicken is seasoned with a zesty Italian dressing mix and a good amount of lemon. It's perfect for warm summer days when you want a tasty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. The result is juicy chicken that's full of flavor. This dish is great for family dinners or casual gatherings.

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    Black Eyed Pea Soup

    A bowl of black eyed pea soup.
    Photo credit: Bowl of Delicious.

    Black Eyed Pea Soup is a simple and filling dish that’s both affordable and healthy. Using dried black eyed peas, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrients. It cooks quickly in your instant pot or slow cooker, saving you time in the kitchen. This is a great option for busy nights when you want something comforting without a lot of work. Enjoy a warm bowl of this delicious soup any time.

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    Slow Cooker Mexican Soup

    Slow Cooker Mexican Soup.
    Photo Credit In the Kitch.

    This Mexican soup is a simple and delicious dish that you can make in a slow cooker. It combines traditional flavors and ingredients from Mexico, making it both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for warm summer days, this soup is packed with nutrition and flavor. You can set it up in the morning and enjoy a comforting meal later without much effort. It's a great way to bring a taste of Mexico to your table.

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    Slow Cooker Chicken Caprese

    Slow Cooker Chicken Caprese.
    Photo Credit: The Lazy Slow Cooker.

    This slow cooker tomato and basil Caprese chicken is a great meal for any time of day. The chicken cooks slowly with chopped tomatoes and Italian herbs, making it really flavorful. Once it's done, it's topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and basil, giving it a fresh touch. This dish is simple to prepare and perfect for busy nights. Enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal effort.

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

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