The Easiest Most Flavorful Crock Pot Chicken Breast Ever
Recipe Introduction: The Easiest, Most Flavorful Crock Pot Chicken Breast (Ever!)
Ever stared at a pack of chicken breasts and thought, "Ugh, what NOW?". Honestly, same. But this recipe? It's a game changer.
We're talking the easiest, most flavorful crock pot chicken breast you'll ever make. Seriously.
Quick Hook: Dump It and Forget It!
This chicken is proper tasty! It's all down to the simple yet delicious blend of herbs and spices . Forget dry chicken, this delivers perfect results. Juicy chicken every time.
Brief Overview: Slow Cooking Magic
This is basically the lazy cook's guide to Sunday roast chicken, but for any day of the week! It's so easy to just throw it all in, you know? This recipe's origin is my desperate need for easy dinners! It's an easy level recipe, taking only about 5- 10 minutes to prep, and 3- 8 hours to cook.
This recipe makes enough for about 4-6 servings.
Main Benefits: Healthy and Versatile
Chicken is a proper good source of lean protein. It's spot on for keeping you full and satisfied. This chicken is PERFECT for meal prepping or a busy weeknight.
What makes this recipe special? It's easy slow cooker chicken recipes at their absolute finest.
Ingredient Check: Keep It Simple, Stupid!
Right, let's raid the pantry. You'll need chicken breasts, olive oil, and some basic spices. You also need chicken broth or water. Keep it simple, yeah?
Seasoning Time: Spice Up Your Life!
Mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs. Don't be shy! Season that chicken like you mean it. We are doing chicken breast recipes slow cooker !
How Long to Cook Chicken Breast in Crockpot: Low and Slow Wins the Race
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the crock pot. Cook on low for 6- 8 hours, or on high for 3- 4 hours.
This is slow cooker chicken breast time ! We want an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) for safe eating.
Shred It Up: Fork Yeah!
Once cooked, shred that chicken with two forks. You now have slow cooker chicken breast shredded ! Use it in tacos, salads, or whatever you fancy.
Chicken breasts in crockpot are so versatile.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this ridiculously easy crock pot chicken. Honestly, it's so simple, even I can't mess it up! And that's saying something, right?
Ingredients & Equipment
So, wanna know how long to cook chicken ? That depends on your slow cooker, but we'll get there. First, let's gather our supplies.
Main Ingredients
Here's the shopping list, measured precisely so even I don't make a hash of it!
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts .
- 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil. Get a good one! It makes a difference.
- 1 tsp (5g) salt. Sea salt is my go-to, but any salt will do.
- 1/2 tsp (2.5g) black pepper. Freshly ground is always best.
- 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder. I know, fresh garlic would be nicer, but we want EASY, yeah?
- 1/2 tsp (2.5g) onion powder. Ditto on the "easy" thing.
- 1/2 tsp (2.5g) dried Italian herbs. That's the magic blend.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth or water. Low sodium is a good shout.
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish. If you're feeling fancy. The chicken breasts should be firm and pink.
Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce
The combo of garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs is killer. It is my secret. Want the best crockpot chicken ? Don't skip the herbs! If you're out of Italian herbs, a mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary works a treat.
For a bit of a kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes never hurt anyone.
Equipment Needed
Okay, here's what you'll need. No fancy stuff!
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker). I am hoping you already have one.
- Measuring spoons and cups. Essential!
- Small bowl for mixing spices. Nothing special, just a normal bowl.
- Tongs or forks for shredding. Or just use your hands, I won't judge.
Seriously, that's it. You probably already have all this stuff in your kitchen. Easy slow cooker chicken recipes are all about using what you've got.
Now you're armed with the knowledge to cook some amazing chicken breasts in crockpot .
Let's move on to the next step. Don't worry, I will show you how to cook chicken breast in crockpot like a total pro.
Crockpot skinless boneless chicken breast recipes don't get easier than this, trust me!.
Cooking Method: Crock Pot Chicken Breast Bliss!
Right then, let’s dive into making the easiest, most flavorful crock pot chicken breast ever ! Honestly, this is one of those recipes that makes you feel like a culinary genius without actually being one.
We're talking zero stress, maximum taste. Whether you need chicken breast recipes slow cooker or just want some easy slow cooker chicken recipes , this is your go-to.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
First, let’s nail the mise en place. "Mise en place" basically just means getting everything ready. Essential, right? We need 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts , a little olive oil , and a blend of spices.
For the spices, we are using 1 tsp salt , 1/2 tsp pepper , 1 tsp garlic powder , 1/2 tsp onion powder , and 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs .
Don't forget 1/2 cup chicken broth . Time saving tip? Measure all the spices into one bowl. Boom, done! Safety wise, just remember to wash your hands after handling raw chicken.
You know the drill!
step-by-step Process: Foolproof Crock Pot Magic
Okay, here's how to actually make this magic happen:
- Trim any dodgy bits off your chicken.
- Mix all the spices in that bowl we prepped.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil, then cover it in the spice mix. Get it everywhere!
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the crock pot. Then, place the seasoned chicken in.
- Cook on LOW for 6- 8 hours or HIGH for 3- 4 hours . Critical temperature? Make sure it reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Shred the chicken with two forks. Easy peasy!
- Serve and enjoy!.
This method is perfect for juicy crockpot chicken breast . And honestly, that's how long to cook chicken until it becomes so tasty and tender. You know?
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Crock Pot Game
One thing I learned the hard way? Don't overcook it! Overcooked chicken is dry, and nobody wants that. Also, resist the urge to peek! You are just extending the slow cooker chicken breast time by letting out heat.
make-ahead option? Absolutely. Cook the chicken, shred it, and store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it.
Defrost and use it whenever you fancy! If you like crockpot skinless boneless chicken breast recipes , feel free to experiment with the flavor.
The result? The best crockpot chicken for your family meals! You might even want to try using it for slow cooker chicken breast shredded style.
Some people cook the chicken breasts in crockpot directly when frozen, but I wouldn't.
Recipe Notes: Your Crock Pot Chicken Cheat Sheet
Right, so you've got the recipe for the Easiest, Most Flavorful Crock Pot Chicken Breast (Ever!) Now, let's chat about some extra bits.
Think of this as your secret weapon for ultimate chicken-y success. Here’s how to cook chicken breast in crockpot like a pro.
Serving Suggestions: Get Your Plating On
Presentation matters, you know? A simple plate of shredded chicken can look incredible. Try piling it high in a bowl.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley. For a fancy touch, drizzle with a little olive oil. Serve it with colorful sides.
Think roasted veggies or a bright salad. Even a simple lemon wedge adds a pop.
For sides? Honestly, anything goes! We usually go for something simple, like rice or couscous. A side salad is always good. And a dollop of natural yogurt adds creaminess.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? No worries! This chicken is great the next day.
- Refrigeration: Pop the shredded chicken into an airtight container. Stick it in the fridge. It'll last for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze it. Portion it out into freezer bags. Squeeze out any extra air. It will be good for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave. Or, warm it gently in a pan with a splash of broth. Make sure it's piping hot before serving. And always check the internal temperature reaches a safe 165° F/ 74° C . Safety first, yeah?
Variations: Spice It Up!
Fancy a change? Here are a couple of ideas.
- Dietary Adaptations: Go gluten-free. Just check your chicken broth and spices are GF. Easy peasy!
- Seasonal Swaps: In the summer, fresh herbs are your best friend. Basil and oregano add a summery zing. In winter, root veg like carrots and swede add a hearty touch.
Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff
Chicken is a fantastic source of protein. It's low in carbs. And it's packed with essential nutrients.
This juicy crockpot chicken breast recipe is a winner for healthy eating. It’s also lean. That said, the exact nutrition will depend on your ingredients.
But generally, you're looking at a good balance of protein and healthy fats. Think roughly 250-300 calories per serving. And around 40-50g of protein.
Honestly, this easy slow cooker chicken recipe is a lifesaver. I always keep a batch in the freezer! It's so handy for quick meals.
You can easily adapt it. And it's perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a go! You'll be hooked, I promise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to cook chicken breast in the crock pot on low versus high? I'm always worried about it drying out!
That's a cracking question! Generally, for this recipe, you'll want to cook chicken breast on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The key is to use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) that's your golden ticket to juicy chicken.
Remember, every slow cooker is a bit different, so it might take a bit of trial and error to find the sweet spot for yours.
Can I overcook chicken in a slow cooker? What happens if I leave it in too long?
Yes, you can, unfortunately, overcooked chicken in a slow cooker is no laughing matter. If you leave it in too long, especially on high, the chicken breast can become dry, tough, and stringy a proper soggy bottom situation!
Keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking time and, as mentioned earlier, use that thermometer like it's your best mate.
Is it safe to cook frozen chicken in a slow cooker? Or do I need to thaw it first?
It's generally not recommended to cook frozen chicken in a slow cooker due to food safety concerns. Thawing your chicken breast first ensures it cooks evenly and reaches a safe internal temperature. Cooking from frozen can also increase the risk of bacteria growth, which nobody wants!
If you must cook from frozen, be sure to increase the cooking time and always use a thermometer to check for doneness.
How long to cook chicken affects its nutritional value. Does slow cooking change the protein content?
Slow cooking doesn't significantly alter the protein content of chicken. The primary impact is on moisture retention and tenderness. Some vitamins might leach into the cooking liquid, so using the liquid for gravy can help retain those nutrients.
Keep in mind that added ingredients, like high sodium broths, can affect the overall nutritional profile, so consider low-sodium options.
What's the best way to store leftover slow cooker chicken, and how long will it last?
Store any leftover slow cooker chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will usually last for 3-4 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it in salads, sandwiches, or even a quick chicken pot pie. Make sure the chicken cools down a bit before refrigerating it to prevent condensation buildup.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken? And if so, what vegetables work best and when should I add them?
Absolutely! Adding veggies is a fantastic way to make this a complete meal. Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips work brilliantly because they can withstand the long cooking time. Add them right at the beginning with the chicken.
Softer vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini should be added during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy nobody likes a mushy marrow!
The Easiest Most Flavorful Crock Pot Chicken Bre
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 300 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
