Secret to the best Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts (3 Steps)
Tired of dry chicken? Make perfectly juicy Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with this easy recipe. They're tender every time! Learn our secret.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 4 medium breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth low sodium preferred
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter cut into small pieces, optional for extra richness
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground, or to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the Chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, gently pressing it into the meat.
- Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken. If using, dot the pieces of butter on top of each chicken breast. This added moisture and fat is key to preventing dryness!
- Step 3: Cook to Perfection. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours, or on HIGH for 2-3 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and your slow cooker. Chicken is done when an internal meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcooking to maintain maximum juiciness. Once cooked, remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.
Notes
Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions: This versatile chicken is great on its own, sliced over salads, shredded for sandwiches, or mixed into pasta dishes, tacos, or casseroles.
Variations: For a zesty flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the seasonings. Feel free to swap out the seasonings for your favorite blend (e.g., Italian seasoning, taco seasoning).
