Crock Pot Chicken Recipe
Effortless Weeknight Dinner Chicken.
The easiest, most flavorful slow cooker chicken for busy weeknights. Just set it and forget it.
I remember one particularly chaotic Tuesday. The kind where everything feels rushed and you just can't catch a breath. I threw these few ingredients into the crock pot that morning, honestly, not expecting much. But when I walked in the door that evening, the whole house was wrapped in this incredible, savory aroma. Dinner was ready. It felt like such a gift. Since then, this has become my go-to recipe for those days when I know I'll need a little calm waiting for me at the end.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- •It's the ultimate 'set it and forget it' meal.
- •The chicken comes out perfectly tender and juicy every time.
- •So versatile! Use it for tacos, salads, sandwiches, or over rice.
- •Minimal prep work means more time for you.
- •It makes the entire house smell warm and inviting.
- •Perfect for meal prepping for the week ahead.
Wow, this recipe is a game-changer for our family. I made it last night and everyone loved it. The chicken was so tender and juicy. I can't believe something so easy could be so delicious. It's already on the menu again for next week!
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: They are the perfect blank canvas. They soak up all the flavor from the spices and broth, and shred beautifully.
- Smoked Paprika: This is my not-so-secret ingredient. It adds a lovely warmth and a beautiful, subtle smoky flavor that feels so comforting.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Using a low-sodium broth lets you control the saltiness of the final dish. It provides just enough moisture to keep the chicken incredibly juicy.
Complete Cooking Process
- First, gather your spices. I like to measure them all into one small bowl.
- Give them a little swirl to combine. It smells so good already.
- Pat your chicken breasts dry. This helps the spices stick nicely.
- Rub that beautiful spice mix all over the chicken. Don't be shy.
- Lay the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the broth and olive oil right over the top.
- Put the lid on. That’s it. Really. The hardest part is done.
- After a few hours, your chicken will be fall-apart tender.
- Gently lift it out and let it rest for a moment.
- Use two forks to shred it. It’s so satisfying to watch it pull apart.
- Toss the shredded chicken back into the juices in the pot. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak up all that goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
→Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs would be wonderful. They have a bit more fat, which makes them extra juicy. The cooking time should be about the same.
→Can I put frozen chicken in the crock pot?
It's generally recommended to thaw chicken before slow cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and reaches a safe temperature. I always thaw mine in the fridge overnight first.
→How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it's easily pierced with a fork and shreds without resistance. If you have a thermometer, it should read 165°F (74°C).
→What can I serve this with?
Oh, so many things! It’s perfect for pulled chicken sandwiches, tacos, burrito bowls, on top of a salad, or simply served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa.
Crock Pot Chicken Recipe
Easy crock pot chicken recipe. A simple dinner that's perfect for a weeknight meal. Delicious and flavorful!
Timing
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
4-6 hours
Total Time
4 hours 10 minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 012 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 021/2 cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 031 tbsp olive oil
For the Spice Rub
- 011 tsp smoked paprika
- 021 tsp dried oregano
- 031 tsp garlic powder
- 041 tsp onion powder
- 051/2 tsp salt
- 061/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot in a single layer.
Pour the olive oil and chicken broth over the chicken.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes.
Using two forks, shred the chicken. It should fall apart very easily.
Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and toss it with the juices left in the pot. Let it soak up the flavor for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes & Tips
- 1You can add a sliced onion to the bottom of the crock pot before adding the chicken for extra flavor.
- 2This spice rub is just a starting point. Feel free to add other herbs you love, like thyme or rosemary.
Tools You'll Need
- •Resist the urge to peek! Every time you lift the lid, you release heat and increase the cooking time.
- •Arrange the chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the crock pot to ensure it all cooks evenly.
- •Don't skip tossing the shredded chicken back into the juices. This is where all the flavor is!
- •Feel free to double the recipe if you have a large enough slow cooker. It’s great for leftovers.