Name: Slow Cooker Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts; 1 cup Chicken broth; 0.5 cup Cream of mushroom soup; 1 tsp Dried thyme

What is a recipe that has saved my sanity on more nights than I can remember? Think rotisserie chicken, but even easier, juicier, and packed with so much more flavor. Is there a better way to avoid standing in line at the grocery store?Slow cooker chicken: how do you cookHow do I prepare a healthy meal with minimal effort? I used to swear by my grandma’s roast chicken recipe (and I still love it! Sometimes, you just need something you can throw in the slow cooker and forget about until you have a full belly. What is that recipe?

What is slow cooker chicken?

What does slow cooker chicken taste like? What is a whole chicken cooked low and slow in the slow cooker? Think of it as the ultimate set it and forget it meal. What is essentially a lazy person’s roast chicken, but with the added benefit of being incredibly moist. Because the chicken cooks in its own juices and whatever seasonings you add, it’s infused with flavor. What is flavor from the inside out? Is it so simple that even my husband can make it (and trust me, that’s saying something)?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some of the best slow cooker chicken recipes?

What is Flavor?Forget dry, bland chicken. What is slow cooker cooking? What is the combination of herbs, spices, and aromatics that creates a symphony of flavors? How do you stimulate your taste buds?
Is it so easy it’s almost a crime?What is the easiest recipe to make? Just toss everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. No babysitting, no constant temperature monitoring, just pure culinary bliss.
Budget Friendly Goodness:What are some of the best cuts of chicken you can buy? How do I make homemade chicken broth? What is the best way to get the most bang for your buck?
Is Versatility the key toWhat’s the beauty of this recipe? Use different herbs and spices, add vegetables to the slow cooker, or even use different cuts of meat. What are the possibilities? I tried a fancy duck confit recipe that ended up tasting like motor oil (don’t worry about that) and unlike that time, I try this recipe again. Is it foolproof to ask?

What I love most about this is how easily it fits into my busy life. I have days when I barely have time to breathe, let alone cook a gourmet meal. How do I make a healthy dinner without spending 50,000? How many hours in the kitchen? Is it a win-win

How do I make slow cooker chicken?

Quick Overview

How do you cook slow cooker chicken? How do you cook chicken in a slow cooker? What can I cook in a slow cooker? What is a weeknight meal? Isn’t it a game changer for busy weeknights? Is it healthy to be healthy?

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
* 1 whole chicken, giblets removed. I usually get mine from the farmer’s market for the best flavor. * 1 tablespoon olive oil * 1/2 teaspoon black pepper * 1/4 teaspoon paprika *1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper* 1/4 cup kosher salt * 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese* 1/2 cup cooked pasta * 3/4 cup salted caramel * 1/2″ rimmed with a What is the difference between garlic powder and dried thyme?

For the Aromatics (Optional, but Recommended):
* 1 onion, quartered * 2 carrots, chopped * 3 celery stalks garlic, minced Lemon, quartered

How do I follow step

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity (if they’re included). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up a bit, even in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and thyme. Set aside. What is the best seasoning for chicken? How do you get under the skin of Chicken Breast? Where the magic happens – don’t skimp on seasoning!

Step 3: Add Aromatics to the Slow Cooker (Optional) (optional)

Place the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the slow cooker. What is the best way to prepare a bed for chicken? Stuff the lemon quarters and minced garlic into the chicken cavity. The lemon will steam the chicken from the inside out, keeping it moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Place Chicken in Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker. If you don’t have vegetables, you can simply place the chicken directly in the slow cooker. I always try to make sure the breast is facing up for even cooking.

Step 5: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken. I always use a meat thermometer to be sure, especially since cooking times can vary depending on the temperature. What is slow cooker?

Step 6: Shred (Optional)

Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes. How long before shredding or carving? The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful. Can you shred it with two forks or carve it into slices?

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

What are some great Side Dishes to serve with slow cooker chicken? Can you use shredded chicken in sandwiches, salads, tacos or any other dish that calls for it? What are some ways to

What should I serve it with?

What are some of the best recipes for slow cooker chicken? What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?

What is a classic dinner?Serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. What is a simple, comforting meal?

For a lighter meal: For the average person:Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice. Is it healthy to eat a Chicken Breast on the weekend?

For Tacos or Burritos:Shred chicken and use it as a filling for tacos. What’s your favorite topping for salsa, guacamole, and sour cream? What is a good way to use leftover chicken?

For Sandwiches or Wraps:How do you shred chicken and use it as a filling for sandwiches? Add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a quick and easy lunch.

My family loves it when I make little sliders with Hawaiian rolls, shredded chicken, and a drizzle of olive oil. They disappear in seconds!

What are some tips for slow cooking chicken?

What are some of the best ways to cook in a slow cooker?

Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker: If you’re using a small slow cooker, you may need to cut the chicken into pieces to ensure that it cooks evenly. Overcrowding can prevent the chicken from cooking properly and can result in a less tender and flavorful dish.

Don’t lift the lid too often: Every time you lift the lid of the slow cooker, you release heat and moisture, which can prolong the cooking time. Try to resist the urge to peek until the chicken is almost done.

Adjust the cooking time as needed: Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C). If the chicken is not yet cooked through, continue cooking for another 30-60 minutes and check again.

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken will result in the most flavorful and moist chicken. The bones and skin add extra flavor and help to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add different herbs, spices, or even a splash of hot sauce for a little kick. I sometimes add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.

Save the juices for gravy: The juices in the slow cooker are packed with flavor. Strain the juices and use them to make a delicious gravy or sauce to serve with the chicken. I like to thicken the juices with a little cornstarch slurry for a silky smooth gravy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to properly store and reheat leftover slow cooker chicken:

Room Temperature: Don’t leave the chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so it’s important to refrigerate or freeze the chicken as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken is properly cooled before storing it to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will help to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Reheat leftover chicken in the microwave, oven, or stovetop. When reheating in the microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to help prevent it from drying out. When reheating in the oven, wrap the chicken in foil to help retain moisture. When reheating on the stovetop, add a little water or broth to the pan to prevent the chicken from sticking.

I always make sure to shred the chicken before freezing, that way it’s ready to go for quick meals!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

I don’t recommend using frozen chicken in the slow cooker. It can take too long to thaw, which can increase the risk of bacteria growth. It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for the best results.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions to the slow cooker along with the chicken. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into large pieces so they don’t get mushy during the long cooking time.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken. Just reduce the cooking time accordingly. Chicken breasts will typically cook in 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high. Be careful not to overcook the chicken breasts, as they can become dry.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Use the pressure cook function and cook for about 6 minutes per pound of chicken. Be sure to let the pressure release naturally for about 10-15 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure manually.

The chicken skin is not crispy. What can I do?

Slow cookers aren’t known for crispy skin! If you really want crispy skin, you can place the cooked chicken under the broiler for a few minutes after it’s done cooking in the slow cooker. Just be sure to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker chicken recipe is a true weeknight warrior. It’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. It’s one of those recipes I know I can always count on, no matter how busy I am. If you’re looking for a simple and delicious way to put a healthy meal on the table, this is the recipe for you! I highly recommend trying it out, and I promise, you won’t be disappointed. If you love easy slow cooker meals, be sure to check out my other slow cooker recipes! And of course, I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know if you tried it and what you thought. Happy cooking!