Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a versatile and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work!
This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is not only easy to make, but it's also delicious and incredibly versatile. Perfect for tacos, salads, or sandwiches!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless meal prep with minimal cleanup
- Tender, juicy chicken that falls apart with a fork
- Perfect for a variety of dishes from tacos to salads
The Benefits of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a fantastic method for busy individuals and families. It allows you to prepare a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. By using a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks or activities. The low and slow heat not only tenderizes the meat but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deliciously rich dish that is sure to impress.
Another wonderful benefit of slow cooking is the ability to cook in bulk. This recipe makes enough shredded chicken to use throughout the week. You can easily portion it out and store it for quick meals, making it an ideal option for meal prep. Whether you're making tacos, salads, or sandwiches, having pre-cooked chicken on hand will simplify your weeknight dinners.
Versatility of Shredded Chicken
Shredded chicken is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. From classic tacos to zesty salads, the options are endless. You can mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce for pulled chicken sandwiches or add it to soups and stews for a protein boost. This flexibility makes it a staple in many kitchens, as it can easily adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Additionally, shredded chicken can be seasoned in countless ways, allowing you to customize the flavor profile to suit your taste. Whether you prefer spicy, savory, or herbaceous, you can adjust the seasonings to create a dish that's uniquely yours. This adaptability ensures that you'll never tire of this simple slow cooker recipe.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Shredded Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to add your favorite spices or a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add to Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the chicken broth over them.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the juices.
Serve
Enjoy your shredded chicken in tacos, salads, or sandwiches!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Health Benefits of Chicken
Chicken is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. It's a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Consuming adequate protein can help you feel fuller for longer, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, chicken is rich in essential nutrients like niacin, vitamin B6, and phosphorus, which contribute to overall health and well-being.
When you choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, you’re opting for a lower-fat option that can fit into a balanced diet. Pairing your shredded chicken with colorful vegetables or whole grains can further enhance the nutritional value of your meal, making it a wholesome choice for any day of the week.
Serving Suggestions
There are countless ways to enjoy your slow-cooked shredded chicken! For a quick and easy meal, serve it in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or shredded cheese. Alternatively, you can toss it on a bed of greens for a refreshing salad, adding some cherry tomatoes and a zesty dressing to brighten it up.
If you're looking for something comforting, consider mixing the shredded chicken into a creamy pasta dish or using it as a filling for baked potatoes. The possibilities are endless, and with a little creativity, you can transform this simple chicken into a variety of delicious meals that cater to your cravings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ What can I make with shredded chicken?
You can use it in tacos, salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
→ Can I freeze the shredded chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken
This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a versatile and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work!
Created by: Lucy Price
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Shredded Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the chicken broth over them.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the juices.
Enjoy your shredded chicken in tacos, salads, or sandwiches!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 45g