slow cook chicken breast recipe crockpot

The Best slow cook chicken breast recipe crockpot

Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken Breast

4.9 from 1831 votes

Tender and juicy chicken breasts infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. This easy, flavorful dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal.

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Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time4 hours

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time4 hours 10 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

For Serving (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Cooked rice or quinoa
• Steamed vegetables

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and place them in the slow cooker.
2. 2
   In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and honey (if using).
3. 3
   Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. 4
   Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2-2.5 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. 5
   Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.
6. 6
   Optional: Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the chicken before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

🔧Equipment

• Slow cooker (crockpot)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Tongs or fork

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 450mg🌾Total Carbs: 6g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0.5g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it into the cooking liquid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Garlic Herb Chicken Breast

1. How long should I cook chicken breast in a slow cooker?

Cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The exact time depends on the size of the chicken breasts—larger pieces may need closer to 6 hours on low, while smaller ones can be done in 3-4 hours. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

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2. Do I need to add liquid to the slow cooker when cooking chicken breast?

Yes, adding ½ to 1 cup of liquid (broth, water, sauce, or even just a splash) helps prevent the chicken from drying out and creates steam for even cooking. However, if you’re using a sauce (like BBQ, teriyaki, or marinara), you may not need extra liquid since the sauce will release moisture as it cooks.

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3. Can I overcook chicken breast in a slow cooker?

Yes, chicken breast can become dry and tough if overcooked, especially on high heat. To avoid this, check for doneness early (after 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low) and use a meat thermometer to confirm it’s reached 165°F (74°C). If you’re not serving it immediately, shred the chicken and mix it with some of the cooking liquid to keep it moist.

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4. Should I sear the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?

Searing is optional but recommended for deeper flavor. Browning the chicken in a skillet with oil for 2-3 minutes per side before slow cooking adds a richer taste and better texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step—just know the chicken may have a slightly blander flavor.

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5. What are the best seasonings or sauces to use for slow cooker chicken breast?

The best seasonings depend on your dish, but popular options include:
– Classic: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
– Italian: Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
– Mexican: Cumin, chili powder, garlic, and lime juice.
– Asian-inspired: Soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey.
For sauces, try BBQ, teriyaki, buffalo, or salsa—just add ½ to 1 cup at the start or during the last 30 minutes of cooking.