Crockpot Chicken Breast – Tender chicken breasts are cooked low and slow with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in juicy, fall-apart meat every time.
Why Crockpot Chicken Breast is a Game-Changer
Crockpot chicken breast is incredibly versatile, and the beauty of using a slow cooker is that it works with minimal hands-on time. You can set it and forget it while it works its magic to transform the chicken into a fall-apart tender masterpiece. Using the crockpot to cook chicken breast allows for maximum flavor infusion, making every bite juicy and satisfying. It’s also a great way to make shredded chicken that can be used for various recipes like tacos, wraps, and casseroles.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crockpot Chicken Breast
Don’t Overcook: One of the most common mistakes when cooking chicken breast in the crockpot is overcooking. Chicken breast can dry out if cooked too long, so aim to cook it on low for about 3 to 4 hours or on high for 1.5 to 2 hours. Check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F.
Sear for Extra Flavor: While it’s optional, searing your chicken breasts in a hot pan with a little olive oil before adding them to the crockpot can enhance the flavor. This step caramelizes the surface of the chicken, adding a deep, savory note.
Don’t Skip the Broth: Adding chicken broth or stock helps keep the chicken moist and infuses extra flavor. If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water will work, though the flavor won’t be as rich.
Shred for Easy Meals: After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken. This is especially helpful if you plan on using the chicken in recipes like chicken tacos, wraps, or chicken salad.
Avoid Cooking from Frozen: Although the crockpot is convenient, it’s not recommended to cook frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. This can result in uneven cooking and a risk of foodborne illness. Always thaw your chicken breasts before cooking.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Breast
The great thing about crockpot chicken breast is its versatility. Here are some ideas on how you can serve it:
- Chicken Salad: Shred the chicken and mix it with your favorite salad ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a creamy dressing.
- Chicken Tacos: Use the shredded chicken for tacos, topping with cheese, lettuce, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Chicken Wraps: Roll up the chicken in a tortilla with veggies and a drizzle of ranch or Caesar dressing for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken breasts whole or shredded over a bed of rice or quinoa with a side of steamed veggies.
- Sandwiches or Buns: Shredded crockpot chicken breast works great in sandwiches or on burger buns. Add some coleslaw or pickles for extra crunch.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken Breast
Storing leftover crockpot chicken breast is simple. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate: Once the chicken has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 to 4 days. The chicken will stay moist and flavorful thanks to the broth it was cooked in.
- Freeze: If you want to store the chicken for a longer period, freeze it. Simply place the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Recipe Variations
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, here are a few variations to suit your taste:
- BBQ Chicken Breast: Add 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce to the crockpot along with the chicken breasts. This creates a sweet, tangy flavor that’s perfect for sandwiches or sliders.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, for a fresh, zesty twist on the classic recipe.
- Spicy Chicken: If you love a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. For a more flavorful kick, you can even add a tablespoon of hot sauce.
- Creamy Chicken: For a creamy version, add 1/2 cup of cream cheese or a cup of heavy cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This creates a rich, velvety texture that’s perfect for serving over rice.
- Italian Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of marinara sauce and some Italian seasoning to create a dish that’s perfect for serving with pasta or on top of a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles).
Recipe FAQs
Can I cook chicken breasts from frozen in the crockpot?
It’s not recommended to cook chicken breasts directly from frozen in the crockpot, as it can cause uneven cooking. Always thaw the chicken first for the best results.
How long should I cook chicken breast in the crockpot on low?
If you’re cooking on low heat, aim for 3 to 4 hours. If you cook it on high, it should take about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts in this recipe. Keep in mind that chicken thighs have more fat, so they’ll remain juicier, and they may take slightly longer to cook.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I add vegetables to the crockpot with the chicken?
Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the crockpot. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of vegetables you’re using, as they may require a little longer to cook.
Crockpot Chicken Breast
Crockpot Chicken Breast - Tender chicken breasts are cooked low and slow with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in juicy, fall-apart meat every time.
Ingredients
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Pour the chicken broth into your slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together salt, onion powder, thyme, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Rub the olive oil and seasoning blend over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 266Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 102mgSodium 413mgCarbohydrates 1gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 38g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot chicken breast is one of the easiest and most versatile ways to prepare chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, and it can be used in a variety of dishes. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken ready for any meal. So go ahead, toss those chicken breasts in the crockpot, and enjoy all the delicious possibilities that come with it.
Try these other crock pot recipes:
