As the aroma of tender chicken fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a sense of comfort. I remember the first time I made this Slow Cooker Chicken Breast; the meat was so tender, it practically fell apart. This dish matters to me because it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. You can set it and forget it, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones instead of slaving over the stove. What’s special about this recipe is its versatility; it can be served in many ways, and the flavors deepen as it cooks, making every bite delicious.
why make this recipe
Making Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to save time while still enjoying a hearty and flavorful meal. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb the spices and broth, resulting in juicy meat that pairs well with a variety of sides. With minimal effort, you can create a wholesome dish that makes weeknight dinners easy and stress-free.
how to make Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 tbsp butter (cubed)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh sprigs)
Directions:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Add cubed butter, minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and thyme to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1.5–2 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Slice or shred the chicken and spoon the sauce over the top before serving.
how to serve Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
This dish can be served in many delicious ways. You can place the chicken on a bed of rice or pasta, mix it into a salad, or even use it as a filling for sandwiches or tacos. Drizzling some of the juicy sauce over the chicken enhances the flavor, making every serving delightful.
how to store Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the spices and broth for a few hours before cooking.
- You can add vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the slow cooker for a complete meal.
- Always check the chicken for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
variation
You can vary this recipe by changing the seasonings. Try using barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor, or add some spices like paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the cooking time by about 1 hour on LOW or 30 minutes on HIGH.
Is it necessary to use butter?
Butter adds richness and flavor, but you can omit it or replace it with olive oil if you prefer a lighter option.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but ensure the chicken is in a single layer as much as possible to cook evenly. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 tbsp butter (cubed)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh sprigs)
Method
Preparation
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Add cubed butter, minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, and thyme to the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1.5–2 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Slice or shred the chicken and spoon the sauce over the top before serving.