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Slow Cooker Chicken Breast

Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
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Slow Cooker Chicken Breast offers a simple, hands-off approach to juicy, tender chicken infused with rich flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this versatile recipe allows you to customize sauces and ingredients for a comforting, healthy meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

Liquids

  • 1 cup chicken broth or stock
  • Optional: splash of lemon juice, vinegar or tomatoes

Aromatics

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped

Vegetables (optional)

  • 1 cup chopped carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms

Herbs & Spices

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp rosemary
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin

Variations (optional)

  • Italian: tomatoes, basil, oregano, Parmesan
  • Asian: soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey
  • Mediterranean: olives, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, thyme
  • Southwest: chili powder, cumin, diced green chilies
  • Creamy: cream cheese or coconut milk (stir in near end)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices to ensure each bite is flavorful beyond the cooking liquid.
  2. Add Aromatics and Liquids: Place the chopped onions, garlic, and any chosen vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth or other sauce components to provide a flavorful bath for the chicken to cook in.
  3. Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low for 3 to 4 hours or on high for about 2 hours. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain steady cooking temperature and moisture inside.
  4. Finish and Rest: Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken breasts and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding to allow juices to redistribute and enhance tenderness.
  5. Optional Sauce Reduction: If a thicker sauce is desired, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and simmer until it reaches preferred consistency. Pour over the chicken when serving.

Notes

  • Choose even-sized chicken breasts for consistent cooking and to prevent some pieces from drying out.
  • Use the low heat setting when possible to maintain moisture and tenderness.
  • Add thickening agents such as cream, yogurt, or cornstarch near the end of cooking to avoid curdling or thinning the sauce.
  • Layer vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker to infuse chicken with flavor without sogginess on top.
  • Check for doneness near the minimum cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken breasts and drying them out.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken breast, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken, healthy chicken, crockpot chicken, tender chicken, family-friendly meal

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/slow-cooker-chicken-breast/