Crockpot Shredded Chicken Breast Recipe
Introduction
This Crockpot Shredded Chicken Breast recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner base, it’s versatile and easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or another dried herb blend)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small dish, combine kosher salt, onion powder, ground paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper to create the seasoning blend.
- Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Rub the seasoning blend evenly over the chicken, then drizzle with olive oil.
- Step 3: Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker around the chicken breasts.
- Step 4: Cook on HIGH for 2 to 4 hours, or on LOW for up to 8 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Step 5: Remove the cooked chicken breasts and shred them using two forks, your hands, or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic or a splash of lemon juice before cooking.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different taste or to suit dietary preferences.
- Use your shredded chicken in tacos, salads, sandwiches, or casseroles for versatile meal options.
Storage
Store shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little broth to retain moisture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but cooking time may increase. It’s best to add extra time and ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally before shredding.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to shred easily with forks or a mixer paddle.
PrintCrockpot Shredded Chicken Breast Recipe
This Crockpot Shredded Chicken Breast recipe is a simple and flavorful way to prepare tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners, the slow cooker gently cooks the chicken infused with a savory blend of herbs and spices, resulting in versatile shredded chicken ready to use in tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 to 4 hours on HIGH or up to 8 hours on LOW
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Seasoning Blend
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or another dried herb blend)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Make the seasoning blend: In a small dish, combine kosher salt, onion powder, ground paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Mix well to create a uniform spice mixture.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Rub the seasoning blend evenly over the chicken breasts, then drizzle and rub with olive oil to coat them thoroughly.
- Add chicken broth: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the slow cooker around the chicken breasts to keep them moist during cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 to 4 hours or on LOW for up to 8 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and either slice or shred it using two forks. Alternatively, place the chicken in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and shred it quickly by mixing.
- Serve or store: Use immediately in your favorite dishes like tacos, salads, or sandwiches, or store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs before cooking.
- You can substitute chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat; cooking times may vary slightly.
- The shredded chicken freezes well — store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Use the cooking liquid as a flavorful broth for soups or rice dishes.
Keywords: shredded chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken breast, easy chicken recipe, meal prep chicken
