Juicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipe: Set It & Forget It

Crafting a mouthwatering slow cooker chicken breast recipe doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

Juicy proteins emerge from your crockpot with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Weeknight dinners suddenly become stress-free culinary adventures that impress everyone around the table.

Simple ingredients blend seamlessly to create tender, succulent meat that falls apart effortlessly.

Lean and nutritious, this dish promises satisfaction without hours of kitchen preparation.

Seasonings and minimal ingredients work magic in transforming ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal.

Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Dinner Solution Benefits

• Ultra-Quick Meal Prep: Whip up this chicken dish with minimal effort, requiring just 10 minutes of active cooking time and simple pantry spices for a hassle-free dinner solution.
• Foolproof Cooking Method: Slow cookers guarantee perfectly moist and tender chicken every single time, eliminating the risk of dry or overcooked meat with its gentle, consistent heating technique.
• Versatile Protein Option: Transform this basic chicken recipe into multiple meal variations by shredding for tacos, slicing for salads, or serving whole with various side dishes to keep dinners exciting and fresh.
• Healthy Weeknight Winner: Packed with lean protein and cooked without excessive oils, this recipe offers a nutritious meal that satisfies hunger while supporting balanced eating goals for the entire family.

Chicken Breast Slow Cooker List

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked, best when fresh and boneless.

• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and enhances overall flavor, helps prevent chicken from drying out.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika: Classic spice combination that adds depth and complexity to the chicken’s flavor profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing the overall taste, adjust according to personal preference.

• Olive Oil: Helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle richness to the dish, choose extra virgin for best flavor.

• Fresh Parsley: Optional herb that adds a bright, fresh finish and visual appeal to the cooked chicken.

Crockpot Chicken Breast Steps

Step 1: Mix Spice Blend

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend the spices thoroughly to create a delicious seasoning mix that will make your chicken burst with flavor.

Step 2: Coat Chicken with Spices

Take the chicken breasts and generously rub the spice mixture all over, ensuring every inch is covered with the aromatic seasoning.

Press the spices gently into the meat to help them stick and penetrate deeply.

Step 3: Sear Chicken for Extra Flavor

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan.

Sear each side for about 2 minutes until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms, which will lock in moisture and add incredible depth to the final dish.

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Gently transfer the seared chicken breasts into the slow cooker.

The pre-searing will help create an amazing foundation of flavor for the cooking process.

Step 5: Add Liquid and Cook

Pour chicken broth over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.

Cover and set the cooker to low heat.

Allow the chicken to cook slowly for 4-6 hours until it becomes incredibly tender and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker.

Let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and delicious.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy

For a final touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken before serving.

This adds a bright, herbal note that complements the rich, savory flavors of the dish.

Chicken Breasts in the Slow Cooker With Tips That Keep Moisture In

• Sear the chicken breasts briefly before slow cooking to lock in delicious, rich flavors and create a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
• Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring juicy and tender chicken every time.
• Experiment with different herb and spice blends like Italian seasoning, cajun mix, or lemon-herb combinations to keep the recipe exciting and fresh.
• Shred the cooked chicken and store in portioned containers for quick protein additions to salads, tacos, sandwiches, and grain bowls throughout the week.
• Replace chicken broth with water or low-sodium broth to control salt intake while maintaining moisture during slow cooking.

Save Slow Cooker Chicken Breast For Later

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed chicken stays fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Frozen chicken maintains quality for up to 4 months.
• Preheat to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of broth. Cover with foil and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, add a tablespoon of broth, and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to prevent drying out.

Meal Companions for Slow Cooker Chicken Breast

• Pair Zesty Chardonnay: Select a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay with bright citrus notes that complement the tender, seasoned chicken. Its light acidity cuts through the richness and enhances the dish’s subtle spice blend.
• Serve Roasted Vegetable Medley: Create a colorful side of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots seasoned with similar herbs. These vegetables mirror the chicken’s spice profile and add vibrant nutrition to the plate.
• Match Herbed Quinoa Pilaf: Prepare a light quinoa pilaf with fresh parsley, thyme, and a touch of lemon zest. This grain provides a protein-rich accompaniment that absorbs the chicken’s delicious cooking broth while adding textural contrast.
• Recommend Fresh Arugula Salad: Toss peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette, shaved parmesan, and toasted pine nuts. The salad’s bright, tangy flavors perfectly balance the slow-cooked chicken’s rich, mellow taste.

Slow Cooked Chicken Breasts with Simple Seasoning Twists

• Herbaceous Mediterranean Rendition: Replace paprika with dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Add lemon zest to the spice mixture for a bright, zesty flavor profile that transports you to coastal Mediterranean kitchens.
• Spicy Southwest Adaptation: Swap traditional spices with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Include a dash of cayenne pepper for heat lovers seeking a bold, southwestern kick.
• Gluten-Free Wellness Version: Confirm all spices are certified gluten-free. Use organic, free-range chicken and low-sodium chicken broth to create a clean, health-conscious meal that supports dietary restrictions.
• Low-Sodium Health Conscious Option: Eliminate added salt, use salt-free herb blends. Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme to enhance flavor without increasing sodium content, perfect for heart-healthy diets.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

• Do I have to sear the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?

While searing isn’t mandatory, it helps develop deeper flavor and creates a nice golden-brown exterior that enhances the overall taste of the chicken.

• What if I don’t have all the specific spices?

You can substitute with similar spices or use a pre-mixed poultry seasoning blend. The key is to maintain a balance of flavors that complement the chicken.

• How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?

Cooking on low heat and using chicken broth helps keep the meat moist. Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to check doneness precisely.

Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipe

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4.7 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent slow cooker chicken breast delivers tender, juicy meat packed with herbal Mediterranean flavors. Minimal prep and effortless cooking guarantee a delicious meal you’ll savor with family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Broth and Oil:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

• Optional: fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Craft a zesty spice blend by combining garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a compact mixing vessel.
2. Meticulously massage the aromatic seasoning across every crevice of the chicken breasts, ensuring complete and even coverage.
3. Ignite a skillet over medium-high flame, introducing a drizzle of olive oil to create a sizzling surface.
4. Carefully position the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, creating a golden-brown exterior by searing for approximately two minutes on each side.
5. Transfer the partially cooked chicken into the slow cooker’s spacious interior.
6. Gently cascade chicken broth over the meat, providing essential moisture for the cooking process.
7. Secure the slow cooker’s lid, allowing the chicken to simmer and tenderize on low temperature for 4-6 hours.
8. Verify doneness by confirming the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) using a reliable meat thermometer.
9. Extract the chicken from the slow cooker, permitting a brief resting period to redistribute internal juices.
10. Present the succulent chicken on a serving platter, optional garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

Notes

• Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.
• Searing the chicken before slow cooking adds a rich, caramelized flavor and helps seal in moisture.
• For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, replace chicken broth with bone broth or water to reduce additional carbohydrates.
• Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F, preventing any risk of foodborne illness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg