Recipe Details
Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours (low setting)
- Total Time: 3-4 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Difficulty: Easy
Equipment
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Ingredients
For Basic Chicken:
- 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Optional Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2-3 sprigs fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
- 1/4 cup white wine
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels
- Trim any excess fat
- If breasts are very thick, consider butterflying
- Season Chicken:
- Mix olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder
- Rub seasoning mixture evenly over chicken breasts
- Ensure complete coverage
- Prepare Slow Cooker:
- Pour chicken broth into slow cooker
- Optional: Add lemon slices and herb sprigs
- Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer
- Avoid overcrowding
- Cooking Process:
- Cover and cook on LOW setting
- Cook 3-4 hours
- Do not remove lid during cooking
- Check internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Finishing:
- Remove chicken from slow cooker
- Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving
- Optional: Brush with melted butter
- Slice or shred as desired
Notes
- Chicken thickness affects cooking time
- Use fresh, not frozen chicken breasts
- Avoid opening lid during cooking process
Tips for Success
- Use meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness
- Choose chicken breasts of similar size
- Do not overcook
- Allow chicken to rest after cooking
Additional Tips and Variations
- Mexican-Style: Add cumin, chili powder
- Italian-Style: Use Italian seasoning blend
- Lemon Herb: Add extra lemon zest
- Spicy Version: Include red pepper flakes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen chicken? A: Not recommended. Thaw completely first.
Q: How long can chicken stay in slow cooker? A: Maximum 4 hours on low to prevent drying
Q: Can I cook chicken from frozen? A: No, always thaw completely first for food safety
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts represent the perfect intersection of convenience, nutrition, and incredible flavor. Simple, adaptable, and consistently delicious.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: 3-4 days in airtight container
- Freeze: Up to 3 months
- Cool completely before storing
- Store in shallow containers
- Reheat gently to maintain moisture