Description
Set-it-and-forget-it shredded chicken that turns out tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned every time. This slow cooker staple is a meal-prep hero ideal for tacos, salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, and more. Make a batch once and enjoy effortless, flavorful protein all week long.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker in an even layer.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken, coating all sides.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
- Transfer chicken to a cutting board and shred with two forks (or use a hand mixer on low in a bowl).
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and toss with the juices to coat and keep moist.
- Serve right away, or cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste, especially if serving with salty sauces.
- Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F/74°C and shreds easily; if it feels tight, cook a bit longer.
- For extra moisture, stir in a splash of broth after shredding.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: Low 6–7 hours | High 3–4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (5–6 oz cooked)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 7.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
Keywords: slow cooker shredded chicken breast,crockpot chicken,meal prep,easy shredded chicken,healthy chicken,lean protein,weeknight dinner