Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast
Introduction
Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast is a delicious and easy recipe that anyone can make. The chicken becomes so tender and full of flavor as it cooks slowly with herbs. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. You can serve it with your favorite sides for a complete dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast. First, it requires very little hands-on time. Just season the chicken, place it in the slow cooker, and let it cook. Second, the flavors of the herbs really shine through, making each bite tasty. Lastly, cooking in a slow cooker ensures that the chicken stays moist and tender, which makes for a satisfying meal.
How to Make Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast
Ingredients:
- 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
Directions: 1️⃣ Season the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub the chicken with olive oil or melted butter. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Coat each chicken breast evenly with the seasoning mixture.
2️⃣ Set Up the Slow Cooker: Place the quartered onion and smashed garlic cloves in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the onions and garlic. Lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
3️⃣ Cook: Cover the slow cooker with a lid. Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
4️⃣ Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices. Serve warm with your choice of sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast
You can serve Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast with many sides. Some great options are mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also shred the chicken and use it in tacos or sandwiches for a tasty lunch.
How to Store Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast
To store any leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning it; this helps the seasoning stick better.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs to your taste. You can use your favorite spices or add more garlic for extra flavor.
- If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
Variation
You can add vegetables to the slow cooker, such as carrots or potatoes, for a complete meal. Simply chop them and place them under the chicken before cooking.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time to about 6-8 hours on LOW.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can bake the seasoned chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.
Q: What should I do if the chicken is dry?
A: Ensure that you do not overcook the chicken. Always check the internal temperature and let it rest after cooking to help retain the juices.