Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Crockpot chicken recipe is the ultimate easy, flavorful, and juicy dinner that practically cooks itself on busy nights. Imagine coming home to a healthy home-cooked meal that’s been simmering away, filling your kitchen with an amazing aroma – that’s the magic of this dish. This recipe has a way of turning simple ingredients into a comforting classic that everyone loves. I remember the first time I made it: I tossed everything into the slow cooker in just 5 minutes, went about my day, and voilà! – dinner was ready,
and my family couldn’t get enough. Moreover, it’s a set-and-forget meal with minimal prep and maximum flavor, so even picky eaters ask for seconds. This crockpot chicken is special because it’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it in tacos one night and over rice the next, making it a weekly staple. It’s similar to our popular slow cooker whole chicken recipe – both are tender, hands-off dinners – but this crockpot chicken recipe is even easier and more adaptable for weeknight meals.
Ultimately, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish proves it with every savory bite. Give it a try, and by the end of this post you’ll be excited to whip up a batch and taste why we’re obsessed with it!
Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Pour chicken broth over the chicken, then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from the crockpot and shred with two forks.
- Serve immediately, or allow to cool and portion into airtight bags. Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!What is crockpot chicken recipe?
You might be wondering: what exactly is a crockpot chicken recipe and why the quirky name? The term “crockpot” simply refers to the beloved slow cooker appliance that does all the hard work for you. Interestingly, Crock-Pot was originally a brand name, but today we use it playfully to mean any slow-cooked meal like this one. I often joke that if a crocodile could cook, it would use a crockpot – silly, right? After all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this recipe’s name hints that it wins hearts by delivering melt-in-your-mouth chicken from a humble pot.
In short, it’s chicken cooked low and slow until it’s unbelievably tender. So don’t let the name scare you – embrace it! Grab your slow cooker, follow along, and before you know it you’ll have a hearty, heart-winning meal that lives up to its fun name.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Recipe:
- Effortless & Delicious: For starters, this dish is unbelievably easy yet yields restaurant-quality results. You simply season the chicken and let the crockpot do its thing. As a result, the meat turns out fall-apart tender, juicy, and infused with flavor with virtually no effort. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for beginners because it’s nearly impossible to mess up, yet it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
- Budget-Friendly Home Cooking: On top of that, making this crockpot chicken at home saves you money and extra trips to the store. It uses affordable ingredients you likely have on hand, and it makes a big batch. Moreover, you’ll get plenty of leftovers that you can repurpose into new meals (say goodbye to pricey pre-cooked rotisserie chickens!). In other words, you get more meals for your money. It’s like meal-prepping a juicy rotisserie-style chicken at a fraction of the cost.
- Flavorful & Versatile: Don’t let the simplicity fool you – this chicken packs a ton of flavor! The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper creates a savory base that goes with everything. Additionally, you can easily dress it up with your favorite toppings or sauces (think BBQ, buffalo sauce, or herbs) after it has been cooked. The possibilities are endless, making this one of those chicken dinner ideas you’ll come back to again and again. It even reminds me of our famous shredded Mexican chicken bursting with spices, but with a more neutral flavor that you can adapt to any cuisine. In short, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits into tacos, sandwiches, salads – you name it.
P.S. Once you fall in love with this crockpot chicken, be sure to explore more of our chicken crockpot recipes for other easy dinner inspiration.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Recipe:
Quick Overview
This crockpot chicken recipe is as easy as it gets, yet it delivers a satisfying, home-cooked meal that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen (even though the slow cooker does all the work). First, you’ll season a few chicken breasts and place them in your crockpot with some broth. Then, just set the timer and let it cook low and slow until the chicken becomes tender and juicy.
The best part? Prep time is only about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, the crockpot simmers everything to perfection over the next several hours, so you can go about your day and come back to perfectly cooked chicken. In fact, from start to finish you’re looking at roughly 6-8 hours (on the Low setting) of hands-off cooking, making this dish incredibly convenient. By the time it’s done, the chicken will be so tender that it practically falls apart, ready to be shredded and enjoyed in any way you like. Talk about easy, delicious, and satisfying – this recipe checks all the boxes!
Key Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather the simple ingredients needed to make this crockpot chicken. You might be surprised to learn that you only need a handful of pantry staples to create such a flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Amount | Ingredient |
| 3 pounds | Chicken Breasts (about 4 large) |
| 1 cup | Chicken Broth |
| 1 teaspoon | Salt |
| 1 teaspoon | Black Pepper |
| 1 teaspoon | Garlic Powder |
| 1 teaspoon | Onion Powder |
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this crockpot chicken recipe, and they’re all kitchen staples. We use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as the protein base – they’re lean, tender, and perfect for shredding once cooked. Additionally, we pour in a cup of chicken broth to keep the meat moist and create a flavorful cooking liquid (you can use low-sodium broth to control the salt level).
A simple seasoning blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder might seem basic, but it’s truly the best combination to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor without overpowering it. Moreover, these spices penetrate the meat during the long cooking process, ensuring every bite comes out well-seasoned. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste – for instance, add a pinch of paprika or dried herbs if you’d like – but the beauty of this recipe is that even with just these six ingredients, you’ll get a delicious result.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Now, let’s walk through the process step by step. Follow these easy instructions, and you’ll see just how simple it is to make this crockpot chicken recipe:
- Prep the Chicken: Place the raw chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot (slow cooker). Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, then sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly on top of the breasts. This simple seasoning will infuse the meat as it cooks.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook the chicken on Low for 6-8 hours. Alternatively, if you’re short on time, cook on High for 3-4 hours. At the end of the cook time, the chicken should be extremely tender and shred easily with a fork – that’s how you know it’s ready. (For peace of mind, you can check that the internal temperature of the thickest part of a breast has reached 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked.)
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the crockpot and place them on a cutting board or in a large bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart with minimal effort. Additionally, you can pour a few spoonfuls of the remaining hot cooking broth over the shredded chicken to keep it moist and flavorful. (Tip: In a hurry? You can shred the chicken even faster by using a hand mixer on low speed or a stand mixer – it’s a little kitchen secret that makes shredding a breeze.)
- Serve or Store: Finally, use the tender shredded chicken right away in your favorite recipes, or enjoy it as-is with a side dish. If you’re meal-prepping, allow the chicken to cool slightly, then portion it into airtight containers or zip-top bags. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. (Don’t forget to label and date your containers!) This way, you’ll have convenient cooked chicken on hand for quick meals later on.
That’s it! With these four simple steps, your crockpot chicken is ready to go. As you can see, it’s truly a “fix it and forget it” recipe.
What to Serve With Crockpot Chicken Recipe
One of the best things about this crockpot chicken recipe is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. Because the shredded chicken has a nicely seasoned yet neutral flavor, it pairs well with so many sides and dishes. For example, you can use it as the protein base for countless easy dinners. Here are a few serving ideas to get you started:
- Taco Night: Spoon the shredded crockpot chicken into warm tortillas to make soft tacos. Additionally, add your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, cheese, and sour cream. The juicy, spiced chicken makes an excellent filling for tacos or burritos.
- BBQ Sandwiches: Mix the shredded chicken with some barbecue sauce (if desired) and pile it onto hamburger buns to create mouthwatering pulled chicken sandwiches. Serve with coleslaw and pickles on the side for a complete meal. Furthermore, a side of sweet potato fries or corn on the cob would round it out nicely.
- Over Rice or Pasta: Turn this into a hearty bowl by serving the chicken over steamed rice, buttered noodles, or even creamy mashed potatoes. Drizzle a little of the savory cooking broth on top to act as a light gravy. In addition, you can toss the chicken with cooked pasta and a jar of Alfredo or marinara sauce for an instant pasta dinner.
- Salads and Soups: Keep things light and healthy by using the shredded chicken as a topper for salads. For instance, make a chicken Caesar salad or add it to a garden salad for extra protein. It’s also fantastic in soups – stir some into chicken noodle soup or a vegetable soup for a protein boost. Moreover, you can mix the chicken into casseroles, quesadillas, or any recipe that calls for cooked chicken.
- Classic Sides: If you prefer a traditional meat-and-potatoes style dinner, serve this crockpot chicken alongside your favorite sides. It goes well with roasted vegetables, green beans, baked beans, or a fresh garden salad. A warm loaf of crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side can help sop up any tasty juices.
In short, there are endless possibilities for enjoying this dish. Whether you transform it into tacos, sandwiches, or serve it straight up with sides, you’ll have no trouble coming up with easy crockpot chicken dinner ideas to delight your family. This one recipe opens the door to a variety of meals, so get creative and enjoy the flexibility! And remember, if you need more inspiration, we have a whole section on easy crockpot chicken dinner ideas that you can explore for planning your next meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Over the years, I’ve made this crockpot chicken recipe countless times (and other chicken on crock pot recipes too), and I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure the results are perfect every single time. Additionally, there are some common mistakes you can easily avoid. Here are my top tips and tricks for making the best crockpot chicken:
- Thaw Your Chicken: Always start with fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts. Why? Frozen chicken takes too long to reach a safe cooking temperature in the slow cooker, which can lead to food safety issues. Moreover, starting with frozen meat may result in a rubbery texture. Plan ahead and thaw your chicken in the fridge beforehand for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook: While the crockpot is very forgiving, it’s possible to overcook chicken if left much longer than the recommended time. If you cook it way past done, the chicken can become a bit dry or mushy. Stick to 6-8 hours on Low (or about 4 hours on High) for ~3 pounds of chicken. Furthermore, if your slow cooker runs hot or if you’re cooking a smaller quantity, check it towards the low end of the time range. The moment it shreds easily and is fully cooked, switch the cooker to “warm” or turn it off to prevent overcooking.
- Use Chicken Thighs (Optional): If you prefer even juicier, richer-flavored meat, you can substitute an equal weight of boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. Thighs have more fat, so they stay very moist and won’t dry out as quickly. In fact, many slow cooker recipes recommend thighs for all-day cooking. The trade-off is a bit more fat, but in return you get ultra tender chicken. (If using bone-in pieces or a whole chicken, remove the skin and add an extra hour or two of cook time on Low. Always ensure the meat reaches a safe temp.)
- Season Generously: Our recipe keeps it simple with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. These simple seasonings are actually among the best spices for chicken in a slow cooker you can use in a slow-cooked dish. Feel free to add your twist! For example, you could throw in a teaspoon of paprika for color, a dash of dried thyme or Italian seasoning for an herbal note, or even a packet of ranch dressing mix for a tangy kick. Additionally, adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pat of butter on top of the chicken before cooking can boost flavor. Just avoid opening the lid too often while it cooks, as that releases heat and can slow down the cooking.
- Let it Rest (Briefly): Once the chicken has finished cooking, don’t immediately shred it in the hot crock. Instead, let the chicken rest out of the liquid for about 5-10 minutes. This short rest helps the juices redistribute, meaning your shredded meat will be moister. Then go ahead and shred away. You’ll notice the difference – the chicken will soak up its juices better.
- Mix in the Juices: After shredding the chicken, always stir some of that flavorful cooking liquid back into the meat. This is a game-changer for juicy, flavorful shredded chicken. The broth keeps the chicken moist (especially important if you’re storing it for later) and infuses extra taste. Moreover, if you plan to add a sauce (like BBQ or buffalo sauce), mixing in a little of the natural juices first ensures the chicken stays succulent and doesn’t get too thick or sticky.
- Meal Prep & Double Batches: You can easily double this recipe if your slow cooker is large enough. Consequently, you’ll have even more shredded chicken to use throughout the week or freeze for future meals. Cooking time may increase by an hour or so for a larger quantity, but the convenience of having lots of ready-to-eat chicken is worth it. Also, be sure to cool any leftovers promptly before refrigerating or freezing to maintain freshness.
By following these tips, you’ll avoid the common pitfalls and ensure your crockpot chicken recipe comes out perfect every time. In summary, think thawed chicken, proper timing, generous seasoning, and keeping it moist with its juices – do all that, and you’ll be golden!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Cooking a big batch of crockpot chicken means you’re likely to have leftovers (hurray for easy meal prep!). Here’s how to store and reheat your shredded chicken so it stays tasty:
- Refrigerating: Allow the cooked, shredded chicken to cool slightly, then transfer it to an airtight container. Additionally, pour a spoonful or two of the cooking broth over the chicken before sealing – this extra moisture keeps it juicy. Store it in the refrigerator and use within 3-4 days. It makes weekday lunches and dinners a breeze because the hard part is already done!
- Freezing: For longer storage, divide the cooled shredded chicken into meal-sized portions (for example, 1 or 2 cups per freezer bag). Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bags to prevent freezer burn, and label them with the date. Moreover, it’s helpful to add a little of the broth to each bag to keep the chicken moist when thawed. Freeze the bags flat for easier storage. The chicken will maintain its best quality for about 2 months in the freezer (though it’s safe to eat beyond that, the flavor might not be as optimal). When you’re ready to use it, thaw the bag overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Reheating: Reheating your crockpot chicken is simple and quick. For individual portions, the microwave is super convenient – place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a tablespoon of water or broth over it, and cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Then, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm. This method steams the chicken and prevents it from drying out. Alternatively, for larger amounts, reheat the chicken in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth and stir occasionally for a few minutes until heated through. Remember, you only need to warm the chicken (not cook it further), so avoid high heat or lengthy reheating which can make it tough. By gently reheating with a bit of liquid, your leftover chicken will stay just as moist and tender as when it first came out of the crockpot.
Following these storing and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your crockpot chicken recipe for days (or weeks) to come without any loss of quality. As a result, weeknight dinners become as easy as opening your fridge or freezer and giving the chicken a quick warm-up!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this crockpot chicken recipe?
I do not recommend starting with frozen chicken in the slow cooker. Why? Because a crockpot heats up slowly, frozen meat can stay in the “danger zone” (between 40°F and 140°F) for too long, potentially growing bacteria. Instead, always thaw your chicken breasts in the refrigerator beforehand. This ensures they cook evenly and safely. Plus, using thawed chicken will result in a better texture – frozen chicken tends to release excess water and can turn out rubbery or less flavorful in the crockpot. For the best (and safest) results, plan ahead and use fresh or fully thawed chicken in this recipe.
Can I use chicken thighs or other cuts of chicken instead of breasts?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. In fact, chicken thighs are an excellent substitute and are less likely to dry out because they have a bit more fat. You can use an equal weight of boneless, skinless thighs and get deliciously rich, tender meat. Just note, if you use bone-in chicken pieces or a whole chicken, you may need to adjust the cook time (it could take a little longer for larger pieces) and remove the skin to avoid excess grease. Overall, feel free to experiment with chicken thighs, drumsticks, or whatever you have – just ensure all pieces reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
How do I know when the crockpot chicken is done cooking
The best indicator is tenderness: the chicken should be so tender that it shreds easily with a fork. When you open the lid at the end of the cook time, the breasts should be white all the way through (no pink) and practically falling apart. To be sure, use an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of one chicken breast – it should read 165°F (74°C) or higher. If it’s there, you’re good to go! Additionally, you’ll notice the juices running clear. If the chicken isn’t quite there yet, cover the crockpot again and cook it a bit longer, checking every 30 minutes. Once it hits that magic tenderness, it’s ready to shred and enjoy.
What are the best spices for chicken in a slow cooker?
: Believe it or not, some of the best spices for chicken in a slow cooker are the same simple ones this recipe already uses! Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper create a classic savory profile that works with almost any dish. Besides those, other fantastic spices and herbs include paprika (for smoky depth and color), dried oregano or thyme (for an earthy flavor), cumin or chili powder (for a southwestern kick), and rosemary or sage (if you’re going for a homestyle vibe). A dash of curry powder can even be interesting if you want an Indian-inspired twist. Remember, slow cooking tends to mellow flavors, so don’t be shy with the seasoning – a crockpot chicken can handle a robust spice blend. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a great base; you can keep the seasoning simple or get creative with your favorite spice mix.
My crockpot chicken turned out a bit dry – what did I do wrong?
If your crockpot chicken came out dry, there are a few potential causes and easy fixes. First, it might have cooked a little too long. Even though slow cookers are forgiving, chicken breasts can dry out if left cooking hours past the point of doneness. Next time, try checking the chicken earlier (at the lower end of the time range) to see if it’s done. Second, make sure you had enough liquid in the crockpot; the chicken broth in this recipe helps keep the meat moist. If you scaled down the recipe (say, using only 1-2 breasts) but didn’t reduce the cook time, or if you used high heat for too long, that could dry it out as well. Additionally, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts – thighs stay juicier in the slow cooker. The good news is, even if the meat is slightly dry, you can usually save it by mixing in some warm broth or a favorite sauce after shredding. In summary, to prevent dryness: monitor the cooking time, use the recommended amount of liquid, and don’t be afraid to enrich the chicken with a little extra broth or butter at the end. That will ensure each bite stays tender and moist.
Conclusion
Ultimately, this crockpot chicken recipe is a game-changer for anyone who wants a delicious, home-cooked meal without the hassle. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients and a trusty slow cooker can produce such tender, flavorful chicken. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or just someone who craves an easy dinner solution, this recipe has you covered.
Moreover, it’s versatile enough to reinvent throughout the week in different dishes, from tacos on Tuesday to soup on Sunday. Once you taste how juicy and tasty this crockpot chicken is, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it in your recipe rotation. So go ahead – gather your ingredients, toss them in the crockpot, and let it work its magic. We’re confident that this will become a new family favorite in your household. Happy slow cooking, and enjoy every bite of your effortless, homemade crockpot chicken!
More recipes for homemade Chicken :