Slow Cooker Chicken Breast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is a simple, foolproof method for making juicy, tender chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days, this recipe delivers flavorful, moist chicken that’s great for meal prep, sandwiches, salads, or a comforting dinner. With only a few basic ingredients and hands-off cooking, it’s an easy go-to recipe for any day of the week.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Chicken broth or water
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary, optional)

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.
3. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.
4. Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the slow cooker (around the chicken, not over the top).
5. Add fresh herbs if using.
6. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 3-4 hours on low
Total time: 3-4 hours

Variations

• Add lemon slices and extra herbs for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
• Sprinkle a little Italian seasoning or taco seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Add a splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Cooked chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking and food safety, but some slow cookers allow cooking from frozen—check your model’s manual.

Can I cook on high?
Yes, you can cook on high for about 2 hours, but low and slow results in juicier chicken.

Can I shred the chicken?
Absolutely! After cooking, you can shred the chicken easily with two forks for tacos, sandwiches, or salads.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, add hardy vegetables like carrots or potatoes under the chicken to cook along with it.

Is it necessary to add broth?
Adding a little broth or water ensures the chicken stays moist, but you can reduce the amount slightly if you prefer.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is the ultimate easy, versatile recipe for perfectly cooked chicken with minimal effort. Tender, juicy, and full of flavor, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or adding a simple protein to any meal. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation!

Print