Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts: Easy & Tender (Print Version)
Tender slow cooker chicken breasts are effortless for weeknight meals. This easy recipe yields juicy, versatile chicken perfect for shredding or slicing.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 240 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 250 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Low-Calorie, Low-Fat
# Ingredients:
→ The Lean Protein Base
01 -
2 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
→ Slow-Simmered Aromatics
02 -
1 large yellow onion, chopped
03 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
→ Hearty Herb & Spice Medley
05 -
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
06 -
1 tsp dried thyme
07 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
08 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
09 -
Salt to taste
→ Brightening Finish & Thickener
10 -
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
11 -
1 tbsp cornstarch
12 -
2 tbsp cold water
13 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Place 2 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Add 1 large yellow onion, chopped, and 4 cloves garlic, minced. This sets the foundation for your Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts Recipe.
02 -
Pour in 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Season generously with salt to taste.
03 -
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours (or HIGH for 2-3 hours), until the chicken is tender and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
04 -
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
05 -
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp cornstarch and 2 tbsp cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker liquid. Add 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice. This step is crucial for the perfect Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts Recipe.
06 -
Cover and cook on HIGH for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir well. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, before serving. Enjoy your Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts Recipe!
# Notes:
01 -
Serve this versatile chicken over rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or in sandwiches for a complete meal. It's also excellent for meal prep!
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 -
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings. You can also swap chicken thighs for breasts if preferred.
04 -
Avoid overcooking the chicken, especially on HIGH, as it can become dry. The goal is tender, shreddable chicken, not tough.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Slow cooker
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Sharp knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Small bowl
07 -
Whisk
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 278 kcal
Total Fat: 5 g
Total Carbohydrate: 6 g
Protein: 48 g