There’s something magical about coming home to the rich, savory aroma of perfectly cooked slow cooker chicken breast. This recipe is the epitome of set-it-and-forget-it cooking, combining tender, juicy chicken with a medley of seasonings that infuse every bite with flavor.

I first tried this recipe when I needed an easy meal prep solution for busy weeks. Little did I know it would become my go-to dish for everything from meal prep to family dinners. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe will soon earn a spot in your weekly rotation.
Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipe
Prepare to fall in love with a dish that takes the stress out of cooking while delivering restaurant-quality results. This slow cooker chicken breast recipe has so much to offer.
First, it’s unbelievably easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready with minimal effort. No searing or pre-cooking is required—just load the ingredients and go.
Next, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, shredding it for tacos, or slicing it for salads, this chicken adapts to any meal you have in mind.
It’s also healthy and budget-friendly. Using lean boneless, skinless chicken breasts means it’s packed with protein while staying light. Plus, it’s a great way to save money by skipping takeout without sacrificing taste.
Finally, the slow cooking process ensures perfectly tender and juicy chicken every time. Say goodbye to dry chicken breasts and hello to moist, flavorful bites.
Ingredients Notes

This recipe keeps things simple with ingredients that work together to create an unforgettable meal. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine.
- Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish! Use fresh or frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean protein that turns out perfectly tender after slow cooking. If using frozen, no need to thaw—just add extra cook time.
- Chicken Broth: Provides a flavorful liquid base that keeps the chicken moist and infuses it with a subtle savory flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These pantry staples bring depth and aroma to the dish without the need for chopping or extra prep.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds an earthy, aromatic quality to the chicken.
- Butter: A few pats of unsalted butter melt over the chicken as it cooks, adding richness and ensuring every bite is luscious.
No special equipment is required—just a trusty slow cooker. If you have a programmable model, even better, as it makes the process entirely hands-free.
How To Make This Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipe

Making this slow cooker chicken breast recipe couldn’t be easier. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go with minimal effort.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by spraying your slow cooker with a light coat of nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Pour in the chicken broth, then add a few pats of butter on top.
- Set and Forget: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid while cooking—it’s important to keep the heat inside.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C). If it hasn’t, let it cook a bit longer.
- Shred or Slice: Once done, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. You can slice it into portions or shred it with two forks for a pulled chicken-style dish.
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and cooks hands-free for the rest of the time, making it perfect for busy days.
Storage Options
One of the best things about this slow cooker chicken breast recipe is how well it stores, making it a great choice for meal prep.
- Refrigeration: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the leftover juices to reheat the chicken—it helps retain moisture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date for easy tracking.
- Reheating: To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop. If reheating frozen chicken, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Add a splash of broth or the reserved juices to prevent drying out.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
- Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for a customized flavor profile.
- Lemon and Garlic: Add fresh lemon slices and minced garlic to the slow cooker for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Mexican-Inspired: Use taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning and add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Tex-Mex version.
- Creamy Option: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a rich, creamy sauce.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Slow cooker chicken breast is the ultimate solution for busy cooks who want flavorful, foolproof results. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or stocking up for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every tender, juicy bite!
PrintSlow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipe
This slow cooker chicken breast recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights or meal prep, this dish is healthy, flavorful, and versatile. Try this slow cooker chicken recipe for the ultimate stress-free dinner!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon slices
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken.
- Pour chicken broth into the slow cooker around the chicken. Add olive oil or lemon slices if desired.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the chicken, let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve or shred for recipes.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed chicken breasts for the best results.
- Avoid overcooking to ensure the chicken remains moist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
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