Easy Crockpot Shredded Chicken Recipe

Discover the ultimate versatile protein for your family meals with this incredible easy crockpot shredded chicken recipe. It offers effortless cooking for busy weeknights, making dinner a breeze. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to create delicious and wholesome family dinners with minimal effort. Learn how simple it is to master one of the best crockpot recipes for flavorful, tender chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Shredded Chicken Recipe

You will quickly discover why this crockpot recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen. It aligns perfectly with Sweet Emily’s mission of making baking and cooking simple for everyone.

• Minimal hands-on preparation: Simply add ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work.
• Extremely versatile: Use this chicken in countless dishes, from tacos to salads.
• Consistently tender, juicy chicken: The slow cooking process ensures perfect results every time.
• Budget-friendly and satisfying: A cost-effective way to feed your family delicious meals.
• Great for healthy eating goals: Lean protein makes it easy to stick to dietary plans.

Ingredients

Making delicious crockpot recipes starts with simple, high-quality ingredients. This shredded chicken is no exception, relying on everyday items for maximum flavor.

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Notes & Substitutions

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner result. Opt for boneless, skinless thighs if you prefer juicier, richer flavor.
• Broth: Vegetable broth works perfectly as a substitute for chicken broth, maintaining moisture and flavor.
• Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste preferences. Smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne can add a wonderful kick.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with dietary restrictions.
• Dairy-Free: Ensure your chosen chicken or vegetable broth is dairy-free to keep the entire dish dairy-free.

Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen items to prepare this fantastic dish. Crockpot recipes are designed for simplicity, requiring minimal specialized gear.

• A 6-quart or larger slow cooker (often called a crockpot)
• Standard measuring spoons and cups for precise ingredient amounts
• Two forks or specialized shredding claws for easy chicken shredding

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly tender and flavorful shredded chicken using your crockpot. This is one of the easiest crockpot recipes you will ever make!

1. Place chicken in crockpot: Arrange the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs evenly at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. Do not stack them too high if possible.
2. Pour chicken broth over chicken: Carefully pour one cup of chicken broth over the chicken pieces. This liquid helps to keep the chicken moist and adds flavor during the slow cooking process.
3. Season generously with spices, salt, pepper: Sprinkle the onion powder, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. Gently rub the seasonings into the chicken if desired.
4. Cover and cook on LOW: Place the lid firmly on your crockpot. Cook the chicken on the LOW setting for 3 to 4 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 2 to 3 hours.According to the USDA, cooking chicken in a slow cooker at a low temperature, typically between 170°F and 280°F, is a safe way to destroy bacteria.

   Cooking on low yields more tender results.

5. Cook until chicken is fork-tender: The chicken is ready when it easily shreds with a fork. It should not feel tough or resistant. Cooking times can vary based on your specific slow cooker.
6. Carefully remove chicken from crockpot: Using tongs, transfer the cooked chicken pieces to a large cutting board or a shallow dish. Leave the flavorful cooking liquid in the crockpot.
7. Shred chicken using two forks or claws: Take two forks and pull the chicken apart until it is completely shredded. Alternatively, use shredding claws for quicker, more efficient shredding.
8. Return shredded chicken to broth: Place the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker with the reserved cooking liquid. This reincorporates the flavor and keeps the chicken wonderfully moist.
9. Stir to combine and coat: Gently stir the shredded chicken into the broth, ensuring every piece is well coated. This step infuses the chicken with even more delicious flavor.
10. Serve warm with desired dishes: Your perfectly cooked shredded chicken is now ready to be enjoyed! This versatile protein is a fantastic base for many incredible crockpot meals.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Ensure success with your crockpot recipes every time by following these expert tips. Troubleshooting common issues keeps your cooking stress-free.

• Do not overfill your crockpot: For optimal and even cooking, ensure your slow cooker is no more than two-thirds full.
• Avoid lifting the lid during cooking: Each time you lift the lid, heat escapes, adding approximately 20-30 minutes to your cooking time.
• For extra flavor, lightly sear chicken first: Browning the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot develops a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
• Prevent dry chicken by not overcooking: Chicken breasts, especially, can become dry if cooked for too long. Always check for fork-tenderness.
• Adjust seasoning after shredding: Taste the shredded chicken once it’s back in the broth. Add more salt, pepper, or other spices if needed.
• If chicken is tough, cook longer: Tough chicken indicates it is not yet fully cooked. Continue cooking until it shreds easily.

Serving, Storage & Variations

Unlock the full potential of your crockpot shredded chicken with these versatile ideas. This recipe makes meal planning a breeze.

Serving Suggestions

• Tacos, burritos, quesadillas: A perfect filling for all your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
• Sandwiches and wraps: Create quick, delicious lunches or dinners with your preferred bread and toppings.
• Salads or grain bowls: Add a boost of lean protein to make your salads more substantial and satisfying.
• Pasta dishes or casseroles: Mix into your favorite pasta recipes or bake into a comforting casserole.
• Serve with rice or steamed vegetables: A simple yet delicious meal on its own, paired with healthy sides.

Storage Instructions

• Cool completely before storing: Allow the shredded chicken to cool to room temperature before placing it in containers.
• Store in airtight container up to 4 days: Keep refrigerated for convenient grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
• Freeze for up to 3 months: For longer storage, portion the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in fridge: For best results, allow frozen chicken to thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating.

Flavor Variations

• BBQ Chicken: After shredding, stir in your favorite BBQ sauce. Perfect for sandwiches or sliders.
• Buffalo Chicken: Mix with buffalo sauce and a touch of ranch or blue cheese dressing for a spicy kick.
• Mexican Chicken: Add a jar of salsa, a teaspoon of cumin, and a teaspoon of chili powder to the crockpot.
• Italian Chicken: Include a can of crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, and extra oregano for a Mediterranean twist.

Nutrition

This easy shredded chicken, one of Sweet Emily’s fantastic slow cooker recipes, offers a healthy foundation for countless meals. It provides excellent nutritional benefits.

• High in lean protein: Supports muscle growth and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
• Low in fat: Especially when using boneless, skinless chicken breast, it’s a great choice for healthy eating.
• Can be made low-carb or Whole30: Naturally fits into various dietary plans without extra modifications.
• Customize ingredients for dietary needs: Easily adjust seasonings and broth to align with specific health goals.
• Naturally healthy and satisfying: A wholesome base for any meal, promoting overall well-being.

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQ

Got questions about making the best crockpot shredded chicken? We have the answers to help you master this simple recipe.

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you absolutely can! Just be sure to add 1-2 hours to the cooking time to ensure it reaches proper tenderness.
• How long does shredded chicken last? Properly stored in an airtight container, cooked shredded chicken lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• What size crockpot is best? A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this amount of chicken, allowing for even cooking and proper liquid coverage.
• Can I brown chicken before? Browning the chicken before adding it to the crockpot is optional but highly recommended for a deeper, richer flavor.
• How do I make it spicy? To add heat, simply include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the slow cooker.

Conclusion

Embrace the simplicity and convenience of crockpot cooking with this outstanding shredded chicken recipe. You will enjoy consistently tender, flavorful shredded chicken every single time, making meal prep a breeze. This versatile protein offers endless possibilities for delicious and easy meals throughout the week. Truly, this easy crockpot recipe is a kitchen staple every busy parent and beginner cook needs to master.

Easy Crockpot Shredded Chicken

This easy crockpot shredded chicken is a tender, juicy, and versatile protein perfect for meal prep. With just a few ingredients, it’s the ultimate time-saving solution for busy weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 230

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Equipment

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• two forks or shredding claws

Method

 

1. Place chicken in crockpot in an even layer at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken pieces to keep them moist during cooking.
3. Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly. Rub in if desired.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and shreds easily.
5. Remove chicken from crockpot and shred using two forks or shredding claws.
6. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir into the broth to coat evenly.
7. Serve warm or use in tacos, salads, bowls, casseroles, and more.

Notes

Great for tacos, salads, grain bowls, or casseroles. Adjust seasonings to your taste — add BBQ, buffalo, or Italian flavors after shredding. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

Taya Bennett

Taya Bennett is the founder of YumEasyMeals, a platform dedicated to easy, delicious, and quick-to-prepare recipes for busy families. Passionate about everyday cooking, she simplifies meals with practical, accessible, and always delicious ideas.
Discover her creations at: yumeasymeals.com