There’s nothing quite like coming home to the delicious aroma of a slow-cooked meal. My Crock Pot Chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you crave a warm, comforting dish without all the effort. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs beautifully with almost anything!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken Recipe
This recipe is designed for those who want a healthy, delicious dinner but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. It’s great because you can set it and forget it! The combination of spices gives the chicken a well-balanced flavor while staying tender and moist throughout the cooking process. Plus, there are endless variations and ways to serve it, making it one of the most versatile dishes in my repertoire.
Who Is This Recipe For?
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone who’s just starting to experiment with slow cooking, this recipe is for you. It’s easy to follow and requires minimal prep time, making it a lifesaver for those busy evenings when cooking is the last thing on your mind. If you’re also looking for a recipe that’s great for meal prep, this Crock Pot Chicken fits the bill perfectly!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple list of ingredients to get you started. You likely already have most of them in your pantry!
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Before you dive into the recipe, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:
- Slow cooker (Crock Pot)
- Measuring spoons
- A small dish for mixing the seasoning
- Tongs for handling the chicken
- A cutting board for prepping ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. This will keep the chicken moist as it cooks and provide a bit of extra flavor.
- In a small dish, mix together the kosher salt, onion powder, thyme, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder. Set this aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- Rub each chicken breast with olive oil. This helps the seasoning adhere to the meat and adds a bit of richness to the final dish.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring they’re not stacked on top of each other.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 4-6 hours, depending on your time constraints. I find cooking on low results in more tender chicken, but either method works well!
Recipe Notes and Tips
Using Bone-in Chicken
If you prefer bone-in chicken for extra flavor, feel free to swap out the boneless breasts. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in cuts typically take a little longer.
How to Avoid Dry Chicken
One of the common challenges with slow-cooking chicken is preventing it from drying out. Be sure to monitor the chicken and check for doneness as soon as it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also add a bit more broth if needed!
Recipe Variations
Swap Chicken Breasts for Thighs
If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute for the chicken breasts. They stay incredibly moist and tender throughout the cooking process.
Spice Variations
For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also experiment with adding cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
Adding Vegetables
Toss in some baby carrots, cubed potatoes, or onions to cook alongside the chicken for a complete meal. Just ensure the veggies are cut into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with Mashed Potatoes
Serve the chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, comforting meal. Drizzle the juices from the slow cooker over everything for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve in Sandwiches or Tacos
Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for sandwiches, tacos, or wraps. It’s an easy way to transform leftovers into a totally new meal!
How to Store Leftovers
Storing in the Fridge
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinner throughout the week.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight.
How to Reheat Crock Pot Chicken
To reheat, simply place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second increments until warm. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet with a bit of broth to keep it moist.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Chicken recipe is a simple, flavorful, and healthy option for those busy days when you want dinner ready with minimal effort. The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations, so you can make it your own. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes or shredding it for tacos, this is a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again.
FAQs About Crock Pot Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Just be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Do I Need to Brown the Chicken First?
No, browning the chicken isn’t necessary for this recipe, but it does add a nice layer of flavor if you have the time.
How Do I Know When It’s Done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can check this using a meat thermometer.
Can I Use This Recipe for Meal Prep?
Absolutely! This chicken stores well and is great for adding to salads, sandwiches, and grain bowls throughout the week.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.