Crockpot Shredded Chicken Breast Recipe

Introduction

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 dinners, this versatile shredded chicken can be used in tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.

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

1. Step 1: Make the seasoning blend by combining kosher salt, onion powder, ground paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and ground black pepper in a small dish. Mix well to create a uniform spice mixture.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Rub the seasoning blend evenly over them, then drizzle with olive oil and rub it in to coat thoroughly.
3. Step 3: Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker around the chicken breasts to help keep them moist during cooking.
4. Step 4: 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 and is fully cooked and tender.
5. Step 5: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks or with a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment for quicker shredding.
6. Step 6: Use the shredded chicken immediately in your favorite recipes or store it properly for later use.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice or chopped fresh herbs like cilantro after shredding.
• Use bone-in chicken breasts for more flavor and remove bones before shredding.
• Swap the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning to give the chicken a Southwestern twist.
• If you prefer spicier chicken, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning blend.

Storage

Store shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, and cook in a similar time frame.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can cook the chicken breasts in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then shred as directed.

Crockpot Shredded Chicken Breast Recipe

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4.7 from 104 reviews

This Crockpot Shredded Chicken Breast recipe offers an easy and flavorful way to prepare tender, juicy chicken using simple seasonings and slow cooking. Perfect for meal prep and versatile meal options like tacos, salads, and sandwiches, this recipe ensures moist chicken with minimal effort.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (on HIGH) or 8 hours (on LOW)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (using HIGH setting)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasoning

• 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

1. Make the seasoning blend: In a small dish, combine the kosher salt, onion powder, ground paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Mix well to create a uniform spice mixture for flavoring the chicken.
2. Prepare the chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Evenly rub the seasoning blend all over the chicken breasts. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and rub to coat thoroughly, ensuring the seasoning sticks well.
3. Add chicken broth: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth around the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. This will help keep the chicken moist while cooking.
4. Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker 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 and is tender enough to shred easily.
5. Shred the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Shred the meat using two forks by pulling it apart, or place the chicken in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and shred quickly by mixing on low speed.
6. Serve or store: Use the shredded chicken immediately in your favorite recipes such as tacos, salads, or sandwiches. Alternatively, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for future meals.

Notes

• For best flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level.
• Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• You can customize the seasoning blend according to your preference by adding other herbs or spices.
• Shredded chicken freezes well; store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Use a stand mixer for quick shredding if you want to save time and effort.

Keywords: shredded chicken, slow cooker chicken, crockpot chicken breast, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken, meal prep chicken