Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
A reliable slow cooker recipe that ensures chicken breasts are super juicy and flavorful, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Standard protein for tenderness.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Adds moisture.
- to taste Salt Enhances flavor.
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper Adds mild heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Provides sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika Adds color and mild smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning Optional, for herbaceous notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Optional, contributes earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Optional, for a hint of freshness.
- 2 cloves minced fresh garlic Adds a punch of flavor.
- 1 medium diced yellow onion Offers sweetness and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or 1 pat of butter Optional, for richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar Optional, brightens flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove the chicken breasts from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Sprinkle dried Italian seasoning or other herbs onto the chicken if desired.
- Lightly spray the inside of the slow cooker pot with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with olive oil.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the pot.
- Scatter minced garlic and diced onion around and over the chicken breasts.
- Pour the chicken broth around the chicken breasts.
- If desired, place a pat of butter on top of the chicken.
- Secure the lid on the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Cook the chicken on the LOW setting for 2 to 3 hours or on the HIGH setting for 1 to 1.5 hours, checking for doneness.
- Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the breasts from the slow cooker and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Shred the chicken using two forks or slice it against the grain into your desired pieces.
- Serve the chicken with a spoonful of the flavorful cooking liquid.
Notes
Always pat the chicken dry for better seasoning adherence. Adjust seasoning amounts to your taste preferences. Monitor cooking time to avoid overcooking. Allow chicken to rest for moisture retention.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 40gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 800mgSugar: 1g
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