This easy crockpot chicken recipe is a real winner! Just toss chicken, some spices, and a splash of broth into your slow cooker and let it do its magic.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal without the fuss. I love serving it over rice or in tacos—so yummy and convenient!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts keep the dish lean and easy to shred. If you want to switch it up, you could use thighs for a richer flavor—it adds moisture and tenderness.
Chicken Broth: A cup of chicken broth adds depth of flavor. If you’re low on broth, feel free to use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor may be lighter.
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are key for flavor. Don’t have paprika? Try smoked paprika for a twist or even chili powder for a little kick! If you’re avoiding salt, omit the salt and add extra seasoning instead.
Olive Oil: This ingredient is optional, but it enriches the chicken. You can swap it for another oil like avocado or coconut oil if you prefer.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in the crockpot is easy, but getting it just right needs a few tricks. Here’s how:
- Start with fresh chicken breasts; frozen ones can release too much water and become rubbery.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! It makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Cook on low for a longer time for the juiciest results—6 hours is perfect!
- Avoid overcooking; check the chicken at the lower end of the time range to keep it tender.
Once it’s done, shred the chicken right in the pot to soak up more of those delicious juices. Enjoy serving it hot in your favorite dishes!
Easy Juicy Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., parsley or thyme), optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes around 10 minutes to prep and about 6 hours to cook on low (or 3-4 hours on high) in your crockpot. So, it’s perfect for a day when you want to set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re spread out evenly so they cook through properly.
2. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mix adds delightful flavor to the chicken.
3. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. You want to make sure every piece is well-seasoned for the best taste!
4. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken. This will keep everything moist and help create a delicious sauce.
5. Optional Olive Oil:
If you choose, drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil on top for added richness. It turns out absolutely delicious!
6. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Shred or Slice:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crockpot. You can shred it with two forks or slice it, depending on how you intend to serve it.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like, and serve hot! This chicken is fantastic over rice, in tacos, or with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy crockpot chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, you will need to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, feel free to use vegetable broth or water. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be milder. For added richness, you can use a combination of water and a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Crockpot Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers along with the chicken. Just make sure to cut them into larger pieces to ensure they cook evenly with the chicken. Add them to the crockpot at the same time as the chicken.
