5 Slow Cooker Meals to Help Get You Back into Routine—RECIPES INSIDE!

THE RECIPES

5 Slow Cooker Meals to Help Get You Back into Routine

After a holiday season that had many of us logging serious hours in the kitchen, the thought of returning to weeknight cooking is…ugh. So ugh. But still, the calendar flips, routines start up again and dinner needs to happen. This is where the slow cooker really earns its keep (and the space it takes up in your cupboards!).

These cozy, hands-off meals deliver comfort without demanding much attention. They’re hearty and satisfying, with plenty of protein and vegetables, and they make the house smell amazing while they’re at it. Think low effort, high reward—the kind of cooking that fits real family life and eases you back into your everyday rhythm.

TAP EACH RECIPE FOR THE DETAILS.

Slow Cooker Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs with Slaw
These saucy chicken thighs hit just the right notes of sweet and savoury, while the bright, fresh slaw is a masterclass in contrast.

Slow Cooker Chicken Chili
Packed with protein and veg, this chili is perfect for scooping up with chips or crusty bread. And what kid doesn’t love a sprinkle of cheese?

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Tacos
This fall-apart pork cooks low and slow and gets paired with crunchy taco shells or soft tortillas and loaded with toppings.

Classic Fall-Off-The-Bone Slow Cooker Ribs
Flavour-packed and hands-off, these ribs that turn out tender every time with no grill or oven babysitting required.

Slow Cooker Chickpea, Kale and Ham Soup
Cozy, filling and nutritious, this soup layers smoky flavour with hearty chickpeas and greens for a satisfying one-pot dinner.

THE POLL

Have You Had Enough of 6-7 to Last a Lifetime?

If you have kids in elementary or middle school, this phrase probably sounds like nails on a chalkboard to you at this point. Especially after two weeks of winter holidays. But did you know that it means…absolutely nothing? Our editor, Katie, went on a deep dive to try and figure out where the heck the MOST ANNOYING TERM in the whole world originated and there is actually no definitive answer. Maybe a rap song, maybe a basketball player’s height…who’s to say?

In any case, tell us: If you could remove a phrase from your child’s vocabulary right now, would it be “six-seeeeveeeennnnn”?

THE QUESTION BOX

I Feel Drained and Exhausted After the Holidays—How Can I Hit the Reset Button?

If the first week of January already feels longer than it should, you’re not alone. After weeks of late nights, holiday treats and routines that went out the window, getting back into the swing of things can feel harder than expected. The good news is, feeling better doesn’t require a big lifestyle reboot. A few small, doable changes can help you regain your energy and find your footing again.

Here are some easy, realistic ways to take better care of yourself as everyday routines return:

• Protect your sleep by heading to bed earlier (that goes for both you and the kiddos!).

• Scale back where possible by saying no more often, delegating tasks and easing up on overscheduling.

• Move a little every day, even if it’s just a walk, a family outing or a quick dance break.

• Eat well without overthinking it by focusing on simple meals heavy on the fruits and veggies.

• Go easy on sugar, caffeine and alcohol until your energy feels more stable.

• Drink more water (seems like a no-brainer but still!) to help with focus, mood and fatigue.

• Make time for fun—not as a reward but as part of everyday life.

• Get outside regularly for fresh air and a mental refresh.

• Seek professional support if you’re feeling stuck or especially depleted.

You don’t need to do everything at once. Pick one habit, see how it helps and build from there.