Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken
Highlighted under: Easy Cooking
This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, delivering tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort.
This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken is a family favorite, combining simplicity and deliciousness. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a hearty meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation with just a few ingredients
- Tender, juicy chicken that falls off the bone
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
The Benefits of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a fantastic method that allows flavors to meld beautifully while requiring very little hands-on time. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you when you return in the evening. The gentle heat of the slow cooker keeps the chicken juicy and tender, making it an excellent choice for busy families.
One of the greatest benefits of slow cooking is the ability to set it and forget it. You can go about your day knowing that dinner is taken care of, freeing you from the stress of last-minute meal prep. This method also allows for greater flexibility; if you're running a bit late, your meal will still be ready and waiting without the risk of overcooking.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken is not just a meal; it's a versatile base for countless dishes. Once cooked, you can use the flavorful chicken in salads, sandwiches, tacos, or even pasta. This makes it an ideal option for meal prepping. By preparing a large batch at once, you can easily portion out meals for the week, saving time and ensuring you have nutritious options readily available.
Using leftovers creatively is another perk of this recipe. Shredded chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it easy to whip up quick meals. You can also freeze portions for a later date, ensuring you always have a delicious and healthy protein source on hand, even during the busiest weeks.
Customizing Your Chicken
One of the best things about this slow cooker chicken recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add a dash of cayenne for heat or some Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to incorporate more nutrients and flavors into your meal.
If you're not a fan of chicken breasts, you can easily substitute with thighs or drumsticks. Each cut offers a different flavor and texture, and the slow cooking method ensures that all cuts turn out incredibly tender and delicious. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Vegetables
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced onions
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker. Add chicken broth and optional vegetables if using.
Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Serve
Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the juices before serving.
Enjoy your delicious crockpot chicken with rice or bread!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices and olive oil overnight before cooking.
Storage Tips
To store your leftover Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded chicken in portion-sized bags. This makes it easy to grab a quick meal later on.
When reheating, make sure to do so gently to maintain the chicken's tenderness. You can use a microwave or reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. This ensures that your chicken remains delicious even on the second serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some tasty sides. Serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete dish. Alternatively, pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more fiber and nutrients.
You can also use this chicken as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. Add your favorite condiments and toppings, such as avocado, cheese, or salsa, for a quick and satisfying lunch. The possibilities are endless, making this chicken a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Nutrition Information
This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Chicken breasts are a lean protein source, low in saturated fat and high in essential nutrients like niacin and vitamin B6. Adding vegetables boosts the dish's nutrient profile, providing vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber that are crucial for a balanced diet.
By preparing meals at home, you can control the ingredients and portions, making it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal without compromising on nutrition, making it an excellent addition to your weeknight dinner lineup.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require additional cooking time.
→ What can I serve with crockpot chicken?
This chicken goes great with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I add other spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken
This Slow Cooker Crockpot Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, delivering tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort.
Created by: Xanthe Beaumont
Recipe Type: Easy Cooking
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Vegetables
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced onions
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker. Add chicken broth and optional vegetables if using.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the juices before serving.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spices and olive oil overnight before cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 60g