Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe (Tender & Flavorful)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–6 hours
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
- 2–3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
- Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Add lemon juice if using.
- Drizzle with olive oil for extra moisture and flavor.
3. Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
- LOW: 5–6 hours
- HIGH: 3–4 hours
The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to shred easily.
4. Serve
Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the flavorful juices from the slow cooker.
Serve with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Pasta
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
- Sandwich buns
Easy Variations
Creamy Chicken: Add 1 can of cream of chicken or mushroom soup before cooking.
Garlic Herb Chicken: Add fresh garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
Mexican-Style Chicken: Add taco seasoning, salsa, and black beans, then use for tacos or burrito bowls.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months.
This recipe is a simple “set it and forget it” meal that produces juicy, versatile chicken with minimal effort.
