A absolutely delicious and foolproof way to enjoy chicken breast that’s juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you just want to come home to a ready-made dinner. Let’s dive into how you can make this effortlessly delicious dish.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring the chicken breast comes out perfectly tender every time.
- Using a blend of simple spices and broth infuses the chicken with moisture and flavor, preventing dryness.
- It’s incredibly versatile – serve it as is, shred it for tacos, or slice it for salads.
- Perfect for meal prep, this recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for leftovers throughout the week.
- Minimal prep time means you can throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning and forget about it until dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better and ensures a nice sear if you choose to brown them first. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, covering them evenly. Tip: For extra flavor, let the seasoned chicken sit in the fridge for an hour before cooking, though this is optional.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken (Optional)
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is optional but adds depth of flavor. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet; sear in batches if necessary.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker around the chicken, not over it, to keep the spices intact. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Tip: Avoid opening the lid too often to keep the heat consistent.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, let the chicken rest in the slow cooker for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken every time. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides or shred for other dishes.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their slow cooker chicken breast, consider brining the chicken before cooking. A simple brine of water, salt, and a bit of sugar for 30 minutes to an hour can make the chicken even more tender and flavorful. Another tip is to layer vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions at the bottom of the slow cooker before adding the chicken. They’ll cook in the chicken juices, making a complete meal. Lastly, for a creamier dish, add a can of cream of chicken soup or Greek yogurt in the last hour of cooking.
Recipe Variations
- BBQ Chicken: Swap the broth for your favorite BBQ sauce and cook as directed. Shred the chicken and serve on buns.
- Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
- Cheesy Chicken: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, top each breast with a slice of mozzarella or cheddar cheese until melted.
- Asian Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of honey instead of the spices listed. Serve over rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but add 1-2 hours to the cooking time. However, for best results, thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to prevent drying out.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Absolutely! Cooking on high will take about 3-4 hours versus 6-7 on low. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Summary
This slow cooker chicken breast recipe is a game-changer for easy, flavorful, and tender chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s versatile, delicious, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
