Looking for an easy way to prepare juicy, tender chicken breasts with minimal effort? This slow cooker chicken breast recipe is the perfect solution! Whether you’re meal prepping, making a family dinner, or looking for a simple crock pot chicken recipe, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal work.
This slow cooker chicken recipe is incredibly versatile—you can serve it over rice, in sandwiches, or shred it for tacos, salads, and wraps. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, it’s a no-fuss meal you’ll love!
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✔ Easy & Hands-Free: Set it and forget it—your slow cooker does all the work!
- ✔ Juicy & Flavorful: No more dry chicken breasts. The slow cooking process locks in moisture.
- ✔ Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- ✔ Customizable: Add different seasonings, sauces, or vegetables to match your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this crock pot chicken recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water for a lighter version)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or your favorite herb blend)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (for extra tenderness, optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper) evenly on both sides.
Step 3: Add to Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra moisture.
Step 4: Cook Low & Slow
Cover and cook on:
- Low for 3-4 hours (for the juiciest results)
- High for 2 hours (if you’re short on time)
Step 5: Check for Doneness
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture! Serve with steamed veggies, rice, or shredded for tacos and sandwiches.
Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Mixing Bowl
- Tongs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- 1 cup chicken broth low sodium preferred
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tbsp lemon juice optional, for extra tenderness
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil and rub with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker and add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.
- Serve immediately or store for meal prep.
Video
Notes
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
- Don’t overcook! Cooking too long can dry out the chicken. Check at the 3-hour mark.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness (165°F).
- Want extra flavor? Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- For shredded chicken, remove and shred with two forks, then mix it back into the juices for even more moisture.
Variations & Add-Ons
- 🌶 Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper for heat.
- 🍋 Lemon Herb: Replace paprika with lemon zest and add fresh parsley.
- 🍯 Honey Garlic: Add 1 tbsp honey and 2 minced garlic cloves for a sweet-savory twist.
- 🍅 Italian Style: Pour in 1/2 cup marinara sauce before cooking for a tomato-based version.
How to Store & Reheat
- 🔹 Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- 🔹 Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- 🔹 Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or microwave in 30-second intervals.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
- 🍚 Over rice or quinoa for a simple meal.
- 🥗 Toss into salads for added protein.
- 🌮 Shred and use for tacos or burritos.
- 🥪 Make chicken sandwiches or wraps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low. Always ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even juicier but may take slightly longer to cook.
Adding lemon juice, olive oil, or a splash of vinegar helps tenderize the meat. Cooking on low heat is also key.
Use two forks to pull the chicken apart, or use a hand mixer for quicker shredding!
Yes! Carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and onions pair perfectly with this dish. Add them in the last 2 hours of cooking to avoid mushiness.
Final Thoughts
This slow cooker chicken breast recipe is a true game-changer—perfectly juicy, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking a simple dinner, this crock pot chicken recipe will never let you down. Try it today and enjoy the easiest, most flavorful slow cooker chicken recipe ever!
✨ What’s your favorite way to use slow-cooked chicken? Let us know in the comments! ✨
Easy & Delicious Bisquick Sausage Balls Recipe
1 comment
Slow Cooker Chicken Breast yaaaaam