Slow Cooker Cacciatore (low and high protein versions)

 Here is another recipe that I converted to fit the low protein diet with a few modification.  What I LOVE about this recipe is that everyone is eating the “same” thing, and I don’t feel like I am cooking lots of different dishes.  I will give instructions for both high and low protein versions.  You will need two slow cookers.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 lbs chicken (for high protein version)
• 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/2 large onion, chopped
• 28 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 4 oz mushrooms, chopped
• 1 sprig thyme
• 1 sprig fresh oregano 
• 1 bay leaf
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• Ground pepper, to taste
• 1 box orzo pasta (for high protein) / low protein pasta (for low protein)
• Parmesan (regular and low protein).

Directions:

1. Place all ingredients except pasta and Parmesan in a slow cooker.  For high protein version cook until the chicken is fully cooked.
2. Use forks to separate the chicken (shred it) for the high protein version.
3. Cook pasta according to directions.
4. Serve over pasta and top with Parmesan.