Description
Succulent slow cooker chicken breast delivers tender, juicy meat that melts in your mouth with minimal effort. Effortless preparation and rich flavors make this dish a weeknight dinner champion for busy home cooks craving comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids and Optional Additions:
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil (optional, for searing)
Instructions
- Thoroughly coat chicken breasts with a blend of aromatic spices, ensuring even distribution of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- For enhanced flavor, quickly sear chicken in hot olive oil at medium heat until a golden-brown crust develops, approximately 2 minutes on each side.
- Transfer seasoned chicken into the slow cooker, carefully arranging pieces to maximize cooking efficiency.
- Gently pour chicken broth around the chicken, creating a moist cooking environment that will help tenderize the meat.
- Secure the slow cooker lid and set to low temperature, allowing chicken to cook slowly and absorb flavors for 3-4 hours.
- Verify doneness by checking the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety and optimal texture.
- Once cooked, carefully remove chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and maintain moisture.
- Slice or serve whole, enjoying the tender, perfectly seasoned chicken breast.
Notes
- Searing the chicken beforehand locks in extra flavor and creates a delicious golden-brown exterior that enhances the overall taste.
- For a low-sodium version, use homemade or reduced-sodium chicken broth and adjust salt levels to suit dietary needs.
- Shred the cooked chicken for versatile meal prep options like salads, tacos, sandwiches, or meal prep containers throughout the week.
- Prevent dryness by avoiding overcooking and using a meat thermometer to check the precise internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 165 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 3.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg