Slow Cooker Chicken Breast

By Muhammad Faizan

Description

Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is a fuss-free, hands-off recipe that produces tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken every time. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a simple protein to add to salads, rice bowls, pastas, or sandwiches, this slow-cooked chicken is versatile, healthy, and incredibly easy. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a foundation recipe every home cook needs.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Breast

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs total)

  • 1 cup chicken broth (or water)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • Optional: sliced onions or lemon slices for extra flavor

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken
    Pat chicken breasts dry and rub with olive oil.

  2. Season
    Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
    Sprinkle evenly over the chicken.

  3. Add to slow cooker
    Pour chicken broth into the slow cooker.
    Place seasoned chicken breasts on top (add optional onions/lemon if using).

  4. Cook

    • Low: 4–6 hours (best for juicy chicken)

    • High: 2–3 hours
      Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  5. Rest & serve
    Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.

Servings

4 servings
(One chicken breast per serving)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Approximate values based on 4 servings:

  • Calories: 215

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 6g

  • Carbohydrates: 1g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Sodium: 430mg

(Values may vary depending on broth and seasoning brands.)

Notes

  • Chicken cooked on low stays more tender and juicy.

  • You can shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker to absorb more flavor.

  • Use any leftover liquid as a base for soups, gravies, or sauces.

Tips for Best Results

🔸 1. Avoid Overcooking

Chicken breasts dry out quickly—check at the minimum cooking time.

🔸 2. Add Flavor Boosters

Experiment with:

  • Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)

  • Lemon juice

  • A splash of soy sauce for umami

  • BBQ sauce or salsa for a ready-to-serve version

🔸 3. Make It Freezer-Friendly

Cooked chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. Shred it and portion into bags.

🔸 4. Add Veggies

Add chopped carrots, onions, or potatoes underneath the chicken for a one-pot meal.

Benefits of Slow Cooker Chicken Breast

  • Healthy lean protein

  • Low effort meal prep

  • Budget-friendly

  • Versatile (works in tacos, salads, soups, casseroles, sandwiches)

  • Family-friendly

  • Hands-off cooking that saves time

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes—but safe cooking guidelines recommend not placing frozen chicken directly in a slow cooker because it may stay in the temperature “danger zone” too long. Thaw first for safety.

Q2: Why is my chicken dry?

Most likely it was overcooked. Check doneness early and cook on LOW for best texture.

Q3: Can I add sauces like BBQ or teriyaki?

Absolutely! Add sauces during the last hour of cooking to prevent burning or thinning.

Q4: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes. Add an extra 30–60 minutes of cook time on low.

Q5: How do I use the leftovers?

Try shredded chicken in tacos, enchiladas, wraps, quesadillas, soups, or pasta dishes.

Q6: Can I sear the chicken first?

Optional but recommended for more flavor. Sear 2–3 minutes per side before adding to the slow cooker.

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