There's nothing more comforting than the aroma of tender slow-cooked chicken breast filling your kitchen on a busy day. This recipe is as easy as it is delicious, making it a perfect go-to for weeknights or meal prep.

I first turned to this recipe when I needed something that could cook itself while I handled my long to-do list. It’s now a staple in my household, offering juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Let’s dive in to see why this will soon be your new favorite slow cooker recipe.

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipe

Get ready to embrace a recipe that’s both a lifesaver and a crowd-pleaser. This slow cooker chicken breast is here to simplify your meal planning without sacrificing flavor.

First, it’s incredibly easy. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, the slow cooker takes care of the rest, delivering perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Second, it’s versatile. Whether you want shredded chicken for tacos, diced chicken for salads, or whole pieces for dinner, this recipe adapts to whatever you need.

And let’s not forget how healthy it is. Using lean chicken breasts, a touch of seasoning, and no heavy sauces, this dish is packed with protein and low in fat. It’s ideal for clean eating or light meals.

Lastly, it’s perfect for meal prep. Make a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have tender, juicy chicken ready to go for salads, sandwiches, pasta, and more. Say goodbye to last-minute dinner stress!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, but every ingredient plays a key role in achieving that juicy, flavorful chicken.

Chicken breasts are the star of this dish. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. If the breasts are particularly large, consider cutting them in half to ensure even cooking.

Chicken broth serves as the cooking liquid. It keeps the chicken moist and infuses it with subtle, savory flavor. For extra depth, you can use low-sodium broth and adjust seasonings as needed.

Seasonings are essential for flavor. A combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika creates a well-rounded profile. You can customize these to suit your taste.

Olive oil adds a touch of richness and helps keep the chicken moist, especially if you’re using a lean cut.

No special equipment is needed beyond a reliable slow cooker, making this recipe accessible for any home cook.

How To Make This Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipe

Cooking tender, juicy chicken in your slow cooker couldn’t be easier. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious base for countless meals.

Start by preparing your chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the seasonings stick well.

Next, combine your seasonings – salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika – in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing lightly to adhere.

Drizzle a little olive oil into the bottom of your slow cooker, then add the chicken breasts in a single layer. Pour chicken broth over the top, ensuring the breasts are partially submerged but not fully covered.

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). For quicker results, you can cook on high for 1.5-2 hours, but the low setting tends to yield juicier results.

Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing, shredding, or serving whole. Use the cooking liquid to keep the chicken moist or drizzle it over the top for extra flavor.

Storage Options

This slow cooker chicken breast stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

For refrigeration, place the chicken in an airtight container along with some of the cooking liquid to keep it moist. Store for up to 4 days.

To freeze, shred or slice the chicken and store it in freezer-safe bags with the cooking liquid. Remove excess air before sealing. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop with a little of the cooking liquid to prevent the chicken from drying out. Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can tweak it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

For added flavor, toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during cooking. These will infuse the chicken with a fragrant, earthy aroma.

If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the seasoning blend.

For a tangy twist, replace some of the chicken broth with freshly squeezed lemon juice or a splash of white wine.

Not a fan of chicken breasts? Swap them for chicken thighs. They’re slightly fattier and even more flavorful, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

If you want a creamy finish, stir a splash of heavy cream into the cooking liquid at the end of cooking. This creates a sauce you can drizzle over the chicken.

With this recipe as your base, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with your favorite seasonings, add-ins, and serving ideas to make it your own.