If you’re new to cooking or just looking for a no-fuss meal, you’re in the right place! This easy crockpot chicken recipe is my go-to, and it’s perfect for beginners. Seriously, it’s as simple as tossing a few ingredients into your crockpot and letting it work its magic while you go about your day. You’ll come home to a warm, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor and oh-so-tender. The best part? You don’t have to be a master chef to pull this off. Trust me, once you give it a try, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without it. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this delicious journey together!
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Make sure they’re thawed for even cooking.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and flavor; feel free to use low-sodium if you prefer.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Canned or fresh, either works great. Just make sure they’re chopped up!
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion, diced nicely to add sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic makes a world of difference in flavor!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This mix of herbs brings a lovely aroma and taste; you can adjust to your liking.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy with seasoning; it makes everything pop!
How to Prepare Instructions
Step 1: Place the Chicken
Let’s get started! First, grab your crockpot and place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom. It’s best to lay them flat, so they cook evenly. You want them to be snug but not overcrowded. If you’re using frozen chicken, just make sure it’s thawed first for the juiciest results!
Step 2: Add Ingredients
Now it’s time to layer on the flavor! Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth to keep everything nice and moist. Next, add in 1 cup of diced tomatoes, followed by the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and be sure to add salt and pepper to taste. The key here is to stir gently to combine everything without disturbing the chicken too much. You want all those flavors to mingle, but keep the chicken on the bottom!
Step 3: Cover and Cook
Once everything is in the pot and mixed, cover your crockpot with the lid. This is super important! You’ll want to cook it on low for 6-8 hours or if you’re in a hurry, on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows all those flavors to really deepen and makes the chicken incredibly tender. Just set it and forget it!
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
When it’s done cooking, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Then, using two forks, gently shred the chicken right in the crockpot. It should fall apart easily and mix in with all those delicious juices. If you like a more saucy dish, just stir everything together to coat the chicken nicely.
Step 5: Serve
And voilà! Your easy crockpot chicken is ready to be served. I love pairing it with some fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. You could also serve it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a lighter option. Feeling adventurous? Load it into taco shells or over pasta for a fun twist. Enjoy your meal and the compliments that are sure to follow!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy: Just toss everything in the crockpot, and let it do the work for you!
- Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for batch cooking. You can make enough to last for several meals.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of ingredients creates a delicious and comforting dish that everyone will love.
- Versatile: Pair it with rice, pasta, or even use it in tacos—the possibilities are endless!
Tips for Success
To make sure your easy crockpot chicken turns out perfectly, here are a few pro tips! First, always check that your chicken is fully thawed before cooking—frozen chicken won’t cook evenly and can be tough. Also, don’t skip the seasoning; a bit of extra salt and pepper can really enhance the flavor. If you want to add veggies like bell peppers or carrots, throw them in with the other ingredients for a pop of color and nutrition! Finally, remember, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking makes shredding easier. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Variations
One of the best things about this easy crockpot chicken recipe is how flexible it is! If you want to switch things up, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots for a colorful veggie boost. You could even throw in a handful of spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning for a fun twist, or add a splash of barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with your favorite ingredients!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your easy crockpot chicken is a breeze! Once it’s cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, or use the microwave for a quick thaw. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems a bit dry. The chicken will be just as delicious as when you made it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for this easy crockpot chicken recipe per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 50g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This dish is a great option if you’re looking for a protein-packed meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this easy crockpot chicken recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but I recommend thawing it first for even cooking. If you do use frozen chicken, be prepared to add additional cooking time to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Q2: What can I serve with the chicken?
This easy crockpot chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even in tacos! You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a lighter meal.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
Q4: Can I add other spices or vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite spices or veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even corn. This easy crockpot chicken recipe is super versatile!
Q5: How can I make this dish spicy?
If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix! You can also swap the Italian seasoning for a taco or Cajun seasoning blend for a flavorful twist.
For more tips on cooking chicken, you can check out Chicken.ca for expert advice.
For nutritional information, visit USDA FoodData Central for reliable data.
Print
Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipe for New Cooks to Enjoy!
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and tasty easy crockpot chicken recipe perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Cover the crockpot with a lid.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks.
- Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 50g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: easy crockpot chicken recipe
