Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe: The Easiest Dinner You’ll Ever Make!
Tired of complicated dinner recipes that take hours? This Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe is your new best friend! This recipe is truly a game-changer. Throw a few ingredients into your crockpot in the morning, and come home to a delicious, tender, and flavorful meal the whole family will love. It’s so easy, even the busiest weeknights can handle it!
Why You’ll Love This Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe
- Effortless: Just dump the ingredients and let the crockpot do the work.
- Flavorful: The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with incredible taste.
- Versatile: Use shredded chicken in tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more!
- Healthy: Using chicken breast makes it a lean and protein-packed meal. Great for those looking for healthy crockpot recipes.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the tender, juicy chicken.
- Budget-Friendly: A delicious, healthy meal using inexpensive ingredients.
Ingredients for Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry Italian dressing mix
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease your crockpot with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add Flavor: Sprinkle the dry Italian dressing mix evenly over the chicken.
- Pour in Liquids: Pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over the chicken and dressing mix.
- Drizzle with Butter: Drizzle the melted butter (or olive oil) over the top.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Return to Sauce: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat with the sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips & Variations
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add Vegetables: Throw in some chopped onions, carrots, and celery for a more complete meal. This is a great way to use the crockpot for dinner recipes.
- Cream Cheese for Extra Creaminess: Stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an even richer sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make this recipe gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- Serve over rice or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
- Make chicken salad sandwiches with it for lunch.
- Top it on a baked potato with cheese and sour cream.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Side salads work wonders and keep you feeling healthy.
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Store leftover Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze the shredded chicken for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, on the stovetop, or back in the crockpot. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
FAQ about Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs will result in even more tender and flavorful shredded chicken. Cooking chicken thigh recipes crockpot style is very popular!
Q: Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken?
A: While it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken for best results, you can cook frozen chicken in the crockpot. Increase the cooking time by 2-3 hours and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Q: Can I add other seasonings?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or dried herbs.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Not as is. To make this a keto crockpot recipe, you’d need to replace the cream of chicken soup with a keto-friendly alternative and use a keto-approved sweetener if desired.
Q: Can I use a different kind of soup?
A: Yes, but this is a chicken crockpot recipes easy. You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to customize the taste or even add other flavors.
Final Thoughts on Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe
This Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! Its ease and convenience make it a staple in our home, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest for easy access, and if you try it, please leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!
Simple Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Crockpot
- Forks
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry Italian dressing mix
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease your crockpot with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add Flavor: Sprinkle the dry Italian dressing mix evenly over the chicken.
- Pour in Liquids: Pour the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over the chicken and dressing mix.
- Drizzle with Butter: Drizzle the melted butter (or olive oil) over the top.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks.
- Return to Sauce: Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat with the sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy!
