AIP Crockpot Recipes

What is the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet? The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet is a therapeutic elimination diet designed to help individuals with autoimmune diseases reduce inflammation and manage their symptoms.

The primary goal of the AIP diet is to identify and eliminate potential food triggers that may be contributing to an overactive immune response.

The AIP diet is an extension of the Paleo diet, which eliminates grains, legumes, dairy, and processed foods.

However, the AIP diet takes it a step further by also removing foods that are commonly associated with inflammation, such as nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, eggplants), eggs, nuts, seeds, and certain spices.

The AIP diet emphasizes the consumption of nutrient-dense, whole foods, including:

• Vegetables (except nightshades)
• Fruits
• High-quality proteins (grass-fed meats, wild-caught fish, and seafood)
• Healthy fats (avocado, coconut oil, olive oil)
• Bone broth
• Fermented foods (like sauerkraut and kombucha)

The elimination phase of the AIP diet typically lasts for 30-90 days, during which time the individual strictly adheres to the diet’s guidelines.

After this period, foods are gradually reintroduced one by one to identify potential triggers and determine which foods can be safely reintroduced into the diet.

Benefits of the AIP Diet

The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet is a therapeutic dietary approach designed to help individuals with autoimmune conditions manage their symptoms and promote overall well-being.

By eliminating certain food groups that are known to contribute to inflammation and gut dysbiosis, the AIP diet aims to reduce the body’s autoimmune response and alleviate the associated symptoms. Here are some of the potential benefits of following the AIP diet:

Reduced Inflammation: The AIP diet eliminates inflammatory foods, such as grains, legumes, dairy, and processed foods, which can contribute to systemic inflammation. By removing these triggers, the diet can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, leading to improved overall health and reduced autoimmune symptoms.

Improved Gut Health: The AIP diet emphasizes nutrient-dense, whole foods that support a healthy gut microbiome. By removing potential irritants and focusing on gut-healing foods like bone broth, fermented foods, and nutrient-rich vegetables, the diet can help restore gut integrity and promote optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

Relief from Autoimmune Symptoms: Many individuals with autoimmune conditions report significant improvements in their symptoms after following the AIP diet. This may include reduced joint pain, fatigue, skin issues, and digestive problems, among other condition-specific symptoms.

Increased Nutrient Intake: The AIP diet encourages the consumption of nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and high-quality proteins. This can help ensure that the body receives an abundance of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are crucial for overall health and immune function.

Potential Weight Management: By eliminating processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats, the AIP diet can support healthy weight management or weight loss for those who need it. The focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods can promote a feeling of satiety and regulate appetite.

It’s important to note that the AIP diet is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and individual responses may vary. Additionally, it’s recommended to work closely with a qualified healthcare professional, especially if you have a diagnosed autoimmune condition, to ensure that the diet is implemented safely and effectively.

Advantages of Crock Pot Cooking for AIP

Crock pot cooking offers numerous advantages for those following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet. One of the primary benefits is convenience.

With a crock pot, you can prepare a nutritious and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Simply toss the ingredients into the pot, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you attend to other tasks throughout the day.

Another significant advantage is the ease of preparation. AIP recipes often require careful attention to ingredient selection and cooking methods to ensure compliance with the protocol.

With a crock pot, you can combine all the AIP-friendly ingredients in one vessel, reducing the need for constant monitoring and stirring.

This hands-off approach makes meal preparation a breeze, especially for those with busy schedules or limited kitchen skills.

Moreover, crock pot cooking is renowned for its ability to retain nutrients. The low and slow cooking process helps preserve the vitamins, minerals, and beneficial compounds found in whole foods.

Unlike other cooking methods that can cause nutrient loss, crock pot cooking gently simmers the ingredients, ensuring that the final dish is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense.

Additionally, the slow cooking process allows flavors to meld and develop over time, resulting in intensely flavorful dishes.

The gentle heat and extended cooking time enable spices and herbs to infuse their aromatic essence into the meal, creating a depth of flavor that is often difficult to achieve with other cooking methods.

AIP-Friendly Crock Pot Chicken Recipes

Chicken is a staple protein in the AIP diet, and crock pot recipes offer a convenient and flavorful way to incorporate it into your meals. Here are some delectable AIP-friendly chicken crock pot recipes to try:

Cilantro Lime AIP Chicken Vegetable Soup

This vibrant and zesty soup is a perfect one-pot meal that combines the goodness of chicken, vegetables, and a refreshing cilantro-lime broth. Simply add your ingredients to the crock pot, let it simmer, and enjoy a comforting and nutrient-dense meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts, broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in the crock pot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
3. Remove the chicken breasts and shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces.
4. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir in the fresh cilantro and lime juice.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.

Budget-Friendly Crock-Pot Chicken

This simple and economical recipe is perfect for those on a tight budget or looking for an easy weeknight meal. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a flavorful and versatile chicken dish that can be served with various AIP-friendly sides.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot and pour the chicken broth over them.
2. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Once cooked, shred or chop the chicken and serve with your favorite AIP-friendly sides or use it in salads, wraps, or soups.

Crock-Pot Creamy Ranch Chicken & Potatoes (AIP-Friendly)

This comforting and creamy dish is a delightful AIP adaptation of the classic ranch chicken and potatoes recipe. By using AIP-friendly ingredients, you can indulge in the familiar flavors without compromising your dietary needs.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp AIP ranch seasoning (see recipe below)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

AIP Ranch Seasoning:

• 2 tbsp dried dill
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the AIP ranch seasoning.
2. Place the chicken breasts and halved potatoes in the crock pot.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut cream, chicken broth, 2 tbsp of the AIP ranch seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and potatoes.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Once cooked, gently stir the contents of the crock pot to combine the creamy sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

These AIP-friendly crock pot chicken recipes are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Experiment with different flavor combinations and enjoy the ease of slow cooking while adhering to your dietary needs.

AIP-Friendly Crock Pot Pork Recipes

Pork is a versatile and flavorful protein that can be transformed into mouthwatering AIP-compliant dishes with the help of a crock pot.

These slow-cooked pork recipes are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with delicious flavors that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork and Roasted Vegetables

This dish is a perfect blend of tender, shredded pork and roasted vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

The pork is slow-cooked to perfection, infusing it with a rich, savory flavor, while the roasted vegetables add a vibrant burst of color and texture.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or butt
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• Assorted vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, etc.)
• Avocado oil or olive oil
• Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Place the pork, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and broth in the crock pot. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
2. Remove the pork from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.
3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Toss the vegetables with oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
6. Serve the shredded pork with the roasted vegetables, garnished with fresh herbs.

Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the savory notes of garlic, creating a delectable and tangy flavor profile that will have you craving for more.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or butt
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken or beef broth

Instructions:

1. Place the pork in the crock pot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and broth.
3. Pour the honey mixture over the pork, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the pork from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.
6. Serve the shredded pork with the cooking liquid drizzled over the top.

AIP Slow Cooker Kalua Pork

Inspired by the flavors of Hawaii, this Kalua Pork recipe is a delightful and authentic addition to your AIP repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or butt
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth

Instructions:

1. Rub the pork with sea salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
2. Place the seasoned pork in the crock pot and pour the broth around it.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove the pork from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.
5. Serve the shredded Kalua Pork with the cooking liquid drizzled over the top, garnished with fresh herbs or sliced green onions.

These AIP-friendly crock pot pork recipes are sure to become family favorites, offering a delicious and hassle-free way to enjoy flavorful and nutrient-dense meals while adhering to the Autoimmune Protocol diet.

AIP-Friendly Crock Pot Beef Recipes

Beef is a nutrient-dense and flavorful protein source that can be easily incorporated into the Autoimmune Protocol diet. Crock pot cooking is an excellent method for preparing tender, succulent beef dishes while preserving the natural flavors and nutrients. Here are some delicious AIP-friendly crock pot beef recipes to try:

AIP Slow Cooker Beef Stew

This hearty and comforting stew is packed with vegetables, herbs, and tender beef chunks. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced parsnips
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in a crock pot and stir to combine.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the beef is tender.
3. Remove the herb sprigs and bay leaf before serving.
4. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

AIP Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

This flavorful brisket is cooked low and slow until it becomes incredibly tender and infused with aromatic spices. Serve it with your favorite AIP-compliant sides for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs beef brisket
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (omit for strict AIP)
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Rub the brisket with the spice mixture, making sure to cover all sides evenly.
2. Place the brisket in the crock pot and pour the beef broth and apple cider vinegar around it.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the brisket is fork-tender.
4. Remove the brisket from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain.
5. Serve with the cooking juices spooned over the top.

These AIP-friendly crock pot beef recipes are sure to become family favorites, offering convenience, flavor, and nutrient-dense meals that comply with the Autoimmune Protocol diet.

AIP-Friendly Crock Pot Vegetable and Soup Recipes

One of the joys of crock pot cooking is the ability to create hearty, flavorful soups and vegetable-based dishes with minimal effort.

For those following the AIP diet, these recipes offer a comforting and nourishing way to enjoy a variety of nutrient-dense ingredients while adhering to the protocol’s guidelines.

AIP Slow Cooker Chili

This nightshade-free chili is a warm and satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor. By combining ground beef or turkey with a medley of AIP-friendly vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and sweet potatoes, you can create a rich and robust chili that’s both comforting and compliant.

Spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika lend depth and warmth, while a touch of cinnamon adds a subtle sweetness.

AIP Slow Cooker Chicken Stew With Plums, Carrots, and Apples

This unique and delightful stew combines the savory goodness of chicken with the sweetness of plums, carrots, and apples.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a delightfully balanced and aromatic dish. Herbs like rosemary and thyme add an earthy note, while a touch of apple cider vinegar brightens the overall flavor profile.

In addition to these standout recipes, there are countless other options for AIP-friendly crock pot vegetable and soup dishes. From hearty vegetable stews to creamy squash soups, the possibilities are endless.

Experiment with different combinations of AIP-approved ingredients, and don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings and flavor enhancers like bone broth, coconut milk, and fresh herbs.

Tips for Adapting Non-AIP Recipes to the Autoimmune Protocol

Adapting traditional crock pot recipes to make them AIP-friendly may seem daunting, but with a few simple substitutions and modifications, you can enjoy your favorite comfort foods while adhering to the Autoimmune Protocol diet. Here are some tips to help you transform non-AIP recipes into delicious, compliant dishes:

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Replace dairy products like milk, cream, and cheese with coconut milk, coconut cream, or AIP-friendly nut milk alternatives.
• Swap grains and legumes with AIP-approved vegetables, such as cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or mashed sweet potatoes.
• Use AIP-friendly oils like avocado oil, olive oil, or coconut oil instead of butter or margarine.
• Substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or fresh fruit purees.
• Opt for AIP-compliant spices and herbs to add flavor, such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, and fresh herbs.

Cooking Methods:

• Sauté aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs in AIP-friendly oils before adding them to the crock pot to enhance flavor.
• Use bone broth or vegetable broth instead of water or non-compliant broths to add depth and nutrients to your dishes.
• Consider adding a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to brighten up flavors and balance richness.
• Adjust cooking times and temperatures as needed, as some ingredient substitutions may require longer or shorter cooking times.

Flavor Enhancements:

• Experiment with AIP-friendly spice blends and seasoning mixes to add depth and complexity to your dishes.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil to provide vibrant flavors and aromas.
• Roast or sear proteins before adding them to the crock pot to create a flavorful crust and caramelized notes.
• Use AIP-friendly condiments like coconut aminos, AIP-friendly mustard, or homemade AIP mayonnaise to add tangy or creamy elements.

Remember, adapting recipes is an iterative process, and it may take some trial and error to achieve the desired flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make adjustments based on your personal preferences and dietary needs.

AIP-Friendly Ingredient Substitutions for Crock Pot Recipes

Following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet requires eliminating certain food groups, such as dairy, grains, legumes, nightshades, and processed foods.

However, this doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor or texture when preparing crock pot recipes. With a few simple substitutions, you can create delicious and compliant dishes that satisfy your cravings while adhering to the AIP guidelines.

Dairy Alternatives:

• Coconut milk or cream: Rich and creamy, these plant-based options are perfect for adding richness to soups, stews, and sauces.
• Avocado: Mash or blend avocado to create a silky texture in dips, dressings, and smoothies.
• Nut-based milks (e.g., almond, cashew, or coconut): Use unsweetened varieties for baking or adding moisture to recipes.

Grain-Free Thickeners:

• Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch: These starches can be used to thicken sauces, gravies, and soups without the need for grains.
• Pureed vegetables (e.g., cauliflower, sweet potato, or pumpkin): Blend cooked vegetables to create a creamy, thickening base for soups and stews.
• Coconut flour: A small amount of coconut flour can help thicken sauces and gravies while adding a subtle nutty flavor.

Nightshade-Free Spice Blends:

• AIP-friendly taco seasoning: Combine spices like cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and chili powder (omitting paprika or cayenne).
• Pumpkin pie spice: A blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, perfect for adding warmth to sweet or savory dishes.
• Italian seasoning: Mix dried herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme for a flavorful Italian-inspired blend.

Other Substitutions:

• Coconut aminos or apple cider vinegar: Use these as alternatives to soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
• Fresh or dried herbs and spices: Experiment with AIP-friendly herbs and spices to add depth and complexity to your dishes.
• Bone broth or vegetable broth: Use these as a flavorful liquid base for soups, stews, and sauces.

Remember, when adapting recipes to the AIP diet, it’s essential to read ingredient labels carefully and be mindful of potential cross-contamination or hidden non-compliant ingredients.

With a little creativity and these handy substitutions, you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious and nutritious crock pot meals while following the Autoimmune Protocol.

Meal Prep and Batch Cooking with AIP Crock Pot Recipes

One of the significant advantages of AIP crock pot recipes is their suitability for meal prepping and batch cooking.

Preparing meals in advance can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure you have a steady supply of nutritious, AIP-compliant meals throughout the week.

Batch Cooking Benefits:

• Time-saving: Dedicating a few hours once or twice a week to batch cooking can save you valuable time on busy weeknights.
• Portion control: Cooking larger batches allows you to control portion sizes and avoid overeating.
• Cost-effective: Buying ingredients in bulk and cooking in larger quantities can help reduce overall food costs.
• Reduced food waste: Batch cooking minimizes the risk of ingredients spoiling before they can be used.

Meal Prep Strategies:

1. Plan your meals: Before heading to the grocery store, plan out your meals for the week and make a comprehensive shopping list to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients.
2. Invest in quality storage containers: Invest in airtight, microwave-safe, and freezer-friendly containers to store your prepped meals and leftovers.
3. Cook in bulk: Double or triple your crock pot recipes to have enough for multiple meals throughout the week or to freeze for later.
4. Freeze individual portions: Divide larger batches into individual portions and freeze them for easy reheating on busy days.
5. Label and date: Clearly label and date your prepped meals and leftovers to keep track of what you have and when it was made.
6. Rotate your meals: Vary your meal choices throughout the week to prevent boredom and ensure you’re getting a diverse range of nutrients.

By incorporating meal prepping and batch cooking into your AIP lifestyle, you can streamline your meal preparation process, reduce stress, and ensure you always have delicious, compliant meals on hand. This approach not only saves time but also helps you stay consistent with your dietary goals.

Conclusion

The Autoimmune Protocol diet can be challenging, but with the help of a trusty crock pot and the delicious recipes we’ve shared, you can make AIP cooking a breeze.

Slow cookers are a game-changer, allowing you to prepare nutrient-dense, flavorful meals with minimal effort. From tender, fall-off-the-bone meats to hearty stews and soups, these AIP crock pot recipes offer a world of possibilities for those on a restricted diet.

We encourage you to dive into these recipes and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make them your own. Remember, the beauty of the AIP diet lies in its ability to nourish your body while still enjoying delectable meals.

Once you’ve tried these recipes, we invite you to share your experiences with us. Let us know which dishes were your favorites, and feel free to offer your own tips and adaptations. Your feedback will not only help us improve but also inspire others on their AIP journey.

To stay up-to-date with more AIP-friendly recipes, cooking tips, and dietary insights, consider subscribing to our newsletter. You’ll receive exclusive content and be part of a supportive community dedicated to living a healthier life.

Additionally, we’ve prepared a free AIP meal planning guide to help you navigate the diet with ease. This comprehensive resource will provide you with meal ideas, shopping lists, and practical tips for staying on track.

Remember, the road to better health is paved with delicious and nourishing meals. Embrace the AIP lifestyle, and let these crock pot recipes be your companions on this transformative journey.