This incredibly tender and flavorful Crockpot Chicken Breast recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a handful of pantry staples, you can create perfectly juicy chicken that’s versatile enough to use in countless meals throughout the week. Simply set it and forget it while your slow cooker works its magic, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious protein that’s ready when you are.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just 10 minutes of hands-on time to rub the chicken with seasonings, then let your crockpot do all the work.
- Incredibly Tender Results: The slow cooking method ensures perfectly moist chicken every time – say goodbye to dry, tasteless chicken breasts!
- Meal Prep Champion: Make a batch on Sunday and transform it into multiple meals throughout the week – tacos, salads, pasta dishes, sandwiches, you name it.
- Budget-Friendly: Chicken breasts often go on sale, making this an economical protein option that feels luxurious when prepared this way.
- Customizable Flavors: The basic seasoning blend is delicious as is, but you can easily adapt it to suit any cuisine you’re craving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Boneless and skinless work best for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful steaming environment that keeps the chicken moist. The low-sodium version lets you control the salt level.
- Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken and contributes to juiciness.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
- Onion Powder: Adds savory depth without the texture of actual onions.
- Dried Thyme: Brings an earthy, slightly floral note that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Paprika: Contributes a subtle sweetness and beautiful color.
- Black Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- Garlic Powder: Provides that essential savory note that makes everything more delicious.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Variations
Looking to switch things up? Here are some delicious ways to customize your crockpot chicken:
- Mediterranean Style: Swap the thyme for oregano and add lemon zest to the seasoning mix. Throw in some olives and a squeeze of lemon juice during the last 30 minutes.
- Mexican Inspired: Replace the thyme with cumin and add chili powder. Use lime zest in the rub and garnish with cilantro before serving.
- Asian Twist: Use chicken broth mixed with a splash of soy sauce and a teaspoon of honey. Add ginger powder to your seasoning blend and garnish with sliced green onions.
- BBQ Flavor: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to your seasoning mix and pour 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last hour of cooking.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a moist cooking environment that’s key for tender results.
Step 2: Create Your Seasoning Blend
In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts, then rub them thoroughly with the seasoning mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated on all sides.
Step 4: Arrange in Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in your crockpot. Try not to overlap them too much for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily with two forks.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overcook: While slow cookers are forgiving, chicken breasts can dry out if cooked too long. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at the minimum cooking time.
- Size Matters: Larger chicken breasts will take longer to cook than smaller ones. Try to choose pieces that are similar in size for even cooking.
- No Peeking: Every time you lift the lid, you’re adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. Resist the urge to check too often!
- Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe uses so few ingredients, choose the best quality chicken you can afford – preferably organic or free-range for the best flavor.
- Double Batch: This recipe scales up beautifully, so consider making extra when chicken is on sale. The leftovers are incredibly versatile.
How to Serve
This versatile chicken works beautifully in countless dishes:
Main Course Options:
Serve whole with a side of roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a classic dinner, or slice and drizzle with the cooking juices alongside a crisp salad.
Meal Prep Building Block:
Shred or dice the chicken and use it throughout the week in:
- Grain bowls with quinoa, roasted veggies, and avocado
- Tacos or burritos with your favorite toppings
- Pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo or pesto pasta
- Hearty sandwiches with good bread and fresh toppings
- Quick quesadillas with cheese and veggies
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. For added moisture, store with some of the cooking liquid.
Freezing
This chicken freezes beautifully! Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze with some of the cooking liquid to maintain moisture.
Reheating
Gently reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. For larger portions, reheat covered in a 325°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
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Can I cook frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended for food safety reasons. The chicken spends too long in the “danger zone” temperature range where bacteria can multiply. For best results and safety, always thaw your chicken completely before slow cooking.
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What if my chicken breasts are different sizes?
Try to arrange them with the thicker parts toward the outside of the crockpot where it’s hotter. You can also cut very large breasts in half to ensure even cooking. Remember that smaller pieces will cook faster than larger ones.
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Can I add vegetables to cook alongside the chicken?
Absolutely! Hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions work best. Cut them into large chunks and place them around or underneath the chicken. Keep in mind that vegetables will release moisture as they cook, so you might want to reduce the amount of broth slightly.
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How do I know when the chicken is done?
The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. The chicken should also be opaque throughout and shred easily with two forks. If it’s still pink or difficult to shred, it needs more time.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chicken Breast recipe proves that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most valuable in your cooking arsenal. With minimal effort and basic ingredients, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken ready for any meal you can imagine. Whether you’re a busy parent, meal prep enthusiast, or someone who just appreciates a good hands-off cooking method, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation. Give it a try and discover just how easy delicious can be!
Print
Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Chicken Breast recipe is a simple, foolproof way to achieve tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken that practically cooks itself. With a handful of pantry-friendly seasonings and minimal prep time, this versatile recipe is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or shredding into salads and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Base
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Main
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Prepare the broth
Start by pouring the low-sodium chicken broth into the slow cooker. This helps keep the chicken moist while cooking and adds a subtle flavor to the dish. - Mix the seasoning blend
In a small dish, combine kosher salt, onion powder, dried thyme, ground paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder. This mixture of spices will add a depth of flavor to the chicken. - Season the chicken breasts
Rub olive oil over the chicken breasts and generously coat them with the prepared seasoning blend. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated for consistent flavor. - Add chicken to the slow cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking. - Cook the chicken
Set the slow cooker to your desired setting: Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 4-6 hours, depending on your schedule. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the herbs, spices, and seasonings to suit your taste.
- You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts using the same ingredients and method.
- For bone-in or skin-on chicken, cooking times may vary—always check for doneness.
- Cooking on the low Crockpot setting is ideal for ensuring the chicken remains moist; high is great if you’re short on time.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
