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Quick Info About This Recipe
- Type: Lunch, Dinner
- Cuisine: American
- Time: 5 hours
- Number of ingredients: 3
- Diets & Allergens: Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Top 9 Allergen Free
- Special Equipment Needed: Slow Cooker
Printable Recipe Card
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Perfect Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken in the Crockpot
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 lbs high quality boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pkg/tbsp gluten free chicken bouillon we used Herb Ox
- ½ cup hot water not boiling
- Avocado oil spray or slow cooker liner
- Your favorite herbs or seasonings
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner.Avocado oil spray
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.2 lbs high quality boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Sprinkle the bouillon on top of the chicken.1 pkg/tbsp gluten free chicken bouillon
- Pour the hot water on top.½ cup hot water
- Put on the lid and cook on high for 4-5 hours.
- Make sure the cooked chicken reaches at least 165 degrees F.
- Shred the chicken with a fork and str it into the broth, mixing it all together.
- Season with your favorite seasonings.Your favorite herbs or seasonings
Nutrition
Jump to:
This slow cooker shredded chicken is fork tender, packed with flavor, and made from simple ingredients. It’s a great recipe to keep on repeat for meal prep since it works in so many different ways—tacos, chicken salad, rice bowls, and more.
With just a few minutes of prep and your favorite seasonings, this easy recipe will become one of your go-to chicken recipes.
FAQ
Yes, you will just need to adjust the cook time if using the high-pressure setting. Check out our slow cooker to Instant Pot conversion calculator. Once done cooking in the Instant Pot, let it do a natural release for 5–10 minutes before releasing the rest of the pressure and shredding.
Garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, or just salt and pepper all work well. Check out the seasoning recommendations above for more ideas.
It’s great in tacos with corn tortillas, rice bowls with black beans, stuffed into baked potatoes, on top of salads, and many more ways.
Yes, it’s one of the easiest ways to make a big batch of protein that you can use throughout the week in different meals.
Shredded chicken can turn out tough in the slow cooker if it’s overcooked, if the cut of meat isn’t of good quality, or if there isn’t enough liquid in the crock pot.
Yes, you can use a slow cooker to cook raw meat. The USDA recommends always thawing meat before putting it in the slow cooker.
It’s best to thaw your chicken first to ensure even cooking and food safety. According to the USDA, it is not a good idea to slow-cook frozen chicken.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner.
Step 2: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Evenly sprinkle the bouillon over the chicken.
Step 4: Pour the hot water over the top to help dissolve the bouillon.
Step 5: Cover with the lid and cook on high for 4–5 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
Step 6: Use a couple of forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker.
Step 7: Stir the shredded chicken into the broth to absorb the flavors.
Step 8: Mix in your favorite seasonings to taste before serving.
About the Ingredients
- Fresh boneless skinless chicken breasts (using a high-quality brand like Smart Chicken will work the best)
- Chicken bouillon (we used Herb Ox)
- Hot water (not boiling)
- Avocado oil spray (or slow use a cooker liner)
- Your favorite herbs or seasonings (see below for seasoning recommendations)
Seasoning Recommendations
- Taco seasoning - great for tacos, burritos, taco bowls, etc.
- Poultry seasoning - works well with all kinds of recipes. We use parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme.
- Italian seasoning - great for pasta dishes and soup.
- Simple seasoning - just use garlic powder for a basic chicken that is perfect for chicken salad and many other recipes.
- BBQ seasoning - mix in brown sugar and chili powder for a sweet and smoky flavor that's perfect for BBQ dishes. Add your favorite BBQ sauce on top!
Be sure to see the printable recipe card for the full ingredients list with measurements, instructions and tips!
Time Saving Shortcuts
- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup
- Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot with a couple of forks—no need for a cutting board
- Prep multiple batches and freeze in a freezer bag for quick meals later
- Half a cup of chicken broth or stock can be used instead of bouillon and hot water
Expert Tips
- Always check that your chicken cook temp reaches 165°F on a meat thermometer. You'll also know it's done when it shreds easily.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, or taco seasoning are great ways to season the chicken. See above for more seasoning recommendations.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor
- You can use this chicken in all kinds of dishes, from chicken soup to chicken salad to tacos and more.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Loaded tater tots
- Side: Mexican veggie soup
- Dessert: Gluten free strawberry shortcake
Storage & Reheating
To store: Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Place the cooled shredded chicken in a freezer bag or freezer-safe container. Press out extra air and seal. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat: Thaw the frozen cooked chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the microwave, on the stove, or in the crock pot with a splash of broth to keep it juicy and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Helpful Product Links for This Recipe
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Be sure to see the printable recipe card for the full ingredients list with measurements, instructions and tips!
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