Cooking with a crockpot is like giving yourself a warm, comforting hug. I remember the first time I tossed frozen chicken into mine—it was a cold day, and I needed something simple yet heartwarming.
The slow cooker took care of the rest, filling the house with a delicious aroma as I went about my day. For me, cooking became a source of healing and connection, especially during tough times.
It wasn’t just about the meal, but about the peace I found in the process. Crockpot recipes are perfect for beginners—no need to thaw the chicken, just season and let the magic happen.
As the chicken cooks, you create more than just food; you create memories, share stories, and build confidence in the kitchen. Cooking isn’t about perfection, but about finding joy in the simple moments.
1. Easy Shredded Crockpot Chicken
There’s something comforting about a pot of slow-cooked chicken, falling apart at the touch of a fork. This easy shredded crockpot chicken is your ultimate meal prep hero—juicy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few hours in the slow cooker, you’ll have tender, pull-apart chicken ready for tacos, salads, sandwiches, or whatever you’re craving. Whether you season it simply with salt and pepper or jazz it up with spices, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy days. Click below for the full recipe and meal ideas!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 3 Pounds Chicken Breasts About 4 Large
- 1 Cup Chicken Broth
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 1 Teaspoon Pepper
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Pour in chicken broth and add seasonings.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Remove chicken and shred with two forks.
- Use immediately or let it cool.
- Store in zip-top bags and freeze for up to 2 months.
2. Crockpot Salsa Chicken
Bold, zesty, and ridiculously easy—this crockpot salsa chicken is a weeknight dream. A jar of salsa, some boneless chicken breasts, and a touch of seasoning come together to create a saucy, flavorful filling perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or even stuffed peppers.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you tender, juicy chicken infused with smoky spice. Whether you like it mild or fiery hot, this recipe is easily customizable to your taste. Serve it up with warm tortillas, fresh lime, and a sprinkle of cheese. Ready to give it a try? Click below!
Servings: 6 cup
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups of favorite salsa
- salt and pepper
- (optional: fresh lime wedges for serving)
Instructions:
- Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker and cover with salsa. Toss to coat.
- Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken with a fork directly in the slow cooker.
- Mix the shredded chicken with the salsa and juices until well combined.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- This chicken freezes well for later use!
3. Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
Chicken breast in the slow cooker can either be dry and boring—or juicy and tender. This recipe guarantees the latter. With a simple seasoning blend and a slow, gentle cook, you get perfectly moist chicken that’s ready to slice, shred, or serve as-is.
It’s a game-changer for easy weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or tossing into salads and pasta. The key? Just the right amount of broth and seasoning to lock in flavor. No more rubbery chicken—just pure, juicy goodness. Want to know the secret to getting it just right? Click below for the full recipe!
Servings: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon paprika
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (roughly 200-225 grams each)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
- Mix salt, parsley, garlic, pepper, onion powder, and paprika in a small bowl.
- Season both sides of the chicken.
- Pour chicken broth into the slow cooker and add the chicken.
- Cut butter into pieces and place on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 hours or until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
4. Crockpot Mexican Chicken
The smell of slow-simmered spices, tomatoes, and tender chicken is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This crockpot Mexican chicken is a flavor-packed dish that brings the warmth of classic Mexican comfort food right to your kitchen.
Slow-cooked with cumin, garlic, and smoky chipotle, the chicken turns incredibly tender and soaks up every ounce of bold, savory goodness. Serve it with rice, pile it into tacos, or spoon it over nachos for an easy, satisfying meal. However you enjoy it, one thing’s for sure—it’s a keeper. Click below for the full recipe and saving ideas!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast raw
- 1 packet low sodium taco seasoning (1 oz)
- 1 jar salsa (16 oz)
- 1 can corn (15 oz, drained)
- 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- optional toppings: lime, cilantro, cheese
- serve with: rice, lettuce, tortillas, or tortilla chips
Instructions:
- Gather all ingredients.
- Add chicken, taco seasoning, salsa, corn, and black beans to the crockpot. Mix.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the crockpot. Stir well.
- Add lime juice, cilantro, and cheese (if using).
- Serve with rice, greens, tortillas, or tortilla chips.
5. Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Rich, creamy, and packed with garlicky goodness, this crockpot garlic parmesan chicken is the kind of comfort food you’ll crave on chilly nights. The chicken simmers low and slow in a velvety parmesan sauce, infused with butter, garlic, and a hint of Italian seasoning.
The result? Fall-apart tender meat with a luscious, savory sauce begging to be poured over pasta or mashed potatoes. It’s a no-fuss, restaurant-quality meal made effortlessly in your slow cooker. One bite, and you’ll want to make it again and again. Click below for the full recipe!
Servings: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces Parmesan garlic sauce
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 10 ounces dry pasta, cooked and drained
- parsley and red pepper flakes, for garnish
Instructions:
- Spray the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the parmesan garlic sauce over them.
- Add cream cheese and parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken, stir to mix, and add cooked pasta.
- Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Enjoy!
6. Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Sticky, sweet, and garlicky in all the right ways—this slow cooker honey garlic chicken is pure magic. The chicken thighs turn incredibly tender, soaking up a luscious sauce made of honey, soy sauce, and fresh garlic.
As it simmers, the aroma fills the kitchen with an irresistible blend of sweet and savory goodness. Serve it over rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and scallions, and you’ve got a dish that’s just as good as takeout—if not better. The best part? It practically cooks itself. Click below to get the full recipe!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons chili paste sambal oelek, sriracha, or hot sauce of choice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
For Serving:
- Prepared brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Chopped green onion
Instructions:
- Place the chicken in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Whisk together soy sauce, honey, tomato paste, chili paste, garlic, and rice vinegar. Pour over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. Flip the chicken halfway if possible.
- Remove chicken and shred. Whisk cornstarch into the cooking liquid, then cook on HIGH for 15–30 minutes until thickened.
- (Optional) For quicker thickening, simmer the sauce on the stovetop for 5–10 minutes.
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stir with the sauce, and serve over rice with green onions and sesame seeds.
7. Slow Cooker Chicken and Dressing
Nothing says holiday comfort quite like a slow cooker filled with tender chicken and savory dressing. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe brings all the flavors of homemade stuffing with none of the hassle.
The slow cooker allows the bread to soak up every bit of rich, herby goodness while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. With buttery cornbread, fragrant sage, and a hint of broth, it’s like a holiday feast in every bite. Ready to bring a little festive magic to your table? Click below for the full recipe!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts 2 ½ pounds
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup 10.5 ounces each
- ½ cup sour cream 122 grams
- ¼ cup diced white onion
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- 1 box chicken stuffing mix 6 ounces
- ¼ cup salted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnishing
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the condensed cream of chicken soup over the chicken.
- Add sour cream and gently mix it with the soup.
- Sprinkle diced onion and dried parsley on top.
- In a bowl, mix dry stuffing with melted butter, then spread over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- (Optional) Uncover the last 45 minutes to firm up the stuffing.
- Season with salt and pepper, serve with mashed potatoes and veggies. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
8. Crockpot Creamy Ranch Chicken
There’s just something about creamy ranch chicken that makes any night feel cozier. This slow-cooked comfort dish brings together tender, fall-apart chicken in a velvety, herb-packed ranch sauce that’s rich without being heavy. A touch of garlic, a hint of tang from sour cream, and the unmistakable savoriness of ranch seasoning make every bite irresistible.
Serve it over mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for the ultimate comfort meal. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just need a stress-free dinner, this dish delivers pure satisfaction. Ready to let your slow cooker do the work? Click to get the full recipe!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 Russet potatoes cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10 oz can)
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, and ranch dressing.
- Place the chicken, potatoes, and carrots in the crock pot.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Check if the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Stir gently to mix the sauce with the ingredients.
- Serve warm with the sauce poured over the top.
- Enjoy your meal!
9. Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Why buy a rotisserie chicken when you can make your own, effortlessly, in the slow cooker? This recipe delivers juicy, tender meat with golden, seasoned skin, all infused with aromatic herbs and spices. As it simmers low and slow, the chicken self-bastes, soaking up the rich flavors of garlic, rosemary, and a hint of lemon.
The best part? You’ll have homemade broth waiting at the bottom of the pot, perfect for soups or sauces. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it way to create a versatile meal that tastes like it took all day. Click below to learn how to make it at home!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 5 lb whole chicken neck and giblets removed
- cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
- Make the Spice Mix – In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Prep the Slow Cooker – Spray the inside with cooking spray. Roll a piece of heavy-duty foil into a ring and place it inside to act as a rack.
- Season the Chicken – Place the chicken on top of the foil ring and rub the spice mixture all over.
- Cook – Cover and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until a thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F or higher.
- Broil for Crispiness – Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and broil for 4-5 minutes until the skin is browned and crispy.
- Prepare the Sauce – Spoon the juices from the slow cooker over the chicken.
- Serve & Enjoy – Serve the chicken with potatoes and carrots, drizzling extra sauce on top. Enjoy!
10. Crockpot Chicken and Rice
Few things are as comforting as a bowl of creamy chicken and rice, and this slow cooker version makes it effortless. The chicken cooks low and slow, absorbing the rich flavors of garlic, onion, and a blend of spices, while the rice turns lusciously soft in a creamy, cheesy broth.
A final stir of shredded cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh parsley bring everything together in the most satisfying way. It’s hearty, fuss-free, and just what you need on a busy weeknight. Grab your crockpot and let’s make this cozy classic—click through for the full recipe!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 1½-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper divided, plus more to taste
- 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- 10.75 ounces condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1½ cups long-grain rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Place chicken thighs in the crockpot insert. Season with half of the salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, remaining salt, pepper, and rice.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- After cooking, turn off the crockpot and remove the chicken.
- Shred the chicken and add it back to the crockpot.
- Stir everything together, adding more chicken broth if needed to thin it out.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 5-10 minutes before serving.
11. Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken
Spicy, tangy, and ridiculously easy, slow-cooker buffalo chicken is a game-changer for busy nights and game-day spreads alike. The chicken simmers in a fiery buffalo sauce, becoming so tender it practically shreds itself. A touch of butter mellows the heat just enough, while a splash of ranch or blue cheese dressing takes it over the top.
Pile it onto sandwiches, wraps, or even baked potatoes for an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you like it mild or extra hot, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Get all the details on making it your own—click below for the recipe!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
Ranch Seasoning*
- 2 Tbsp buttermilk powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/4 tsp dried dill
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp lemon pepper
- 1/8 tsp sugar
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Buffalo Chicken
- 12 oz. hot sauce
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 Tbsp butter
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine ranch seasoning (buttermilk powder, parsley, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, lemon pepper, sugar, salt, and pepper) with hot sauce.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 3-quart or larger slow cooker.
- Cut the butter into chunks and place them on top of the chicken.
- Pour the hot sauce mixture over the chicken and butter.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, use two forks to shred the chicken. If it’s not tender enough, cook a little longer.
- Serve the shredded chicken and sauce on sandwiches, quesadillas, nachos, salads, or as a dip for crackers and chips.
- Enjoy your delicious dish!
12. Lazy Crockpot Chicken and Mushrooms
This is the kind of meal that feels fancy but takes almost no effort. Tender chicken simmers in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, soaking up flavors from garlic, onions, and a splash of white wine. The mushrooms melt into the sauce, creating an earthy depth that makes this dish feel indulgent.
Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something elegant for guests, this one checks all the boxes. Ready to see how easy it is? Click for the full recipe!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 2 to 2 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix or store brand
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Spray slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or use a slow cooker liner.
- Place chicken breasts in a single layer in the cooker and season with pepper.
- In a bowl, mix condensed soups, onion soup mix, mushrooms, and water. Stir well.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the chicken. Use a spatula to spread it out.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on high for 4 to 4 1/2 hours or on low for 7 to 8 hours.
- Adjust cooking times depending on how fast/slow your slow cooker cooks.
- Once done, check that the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
13. Herbed Slow Cooker Chicken
When your kitchen smells like rosemary, thyme, and garlic, you know something good is happening. This herbed slow cooker chicken is all about simple ingredients coming together beautifully. Slow cooking locks in moisture, making the meat impossibly tender, while the herbs infuse every bite with warmth and depth.
Whether you’re serving it as a Sunday dinner centerpiece or shredding it for meal prep, this recipe is a must-have. Bonus: It makes the perfect base for soups, salads, or sandwiches throughout the week. Click below to get the full recipe and start cooking!
Servings: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 3 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Add chicken to the slow cooker and sprinkle with seasonings. Top with butter and stir to coat evenly.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3 hours.
- Once cooked, stir the chicken and top with shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with your favorite whole grain and vegetable, drizzling with extra sauce.
14. Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken
Sticky, smoky, and fall-apart tender—this slow cooker barbecue chicken is everything you crave in a classic BBQ dish, minus the hassle. The chicken slow-cooks in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce made with brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of spice, absorbing every bit of flavor as it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Pile it high on toasted buns, stuff it into tacos, or serve it with coleslaw and cornbread for the ultimate backyard-style feast. No grill? No problem. Let your crockpot do the work—click through for the full recipe!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs chicken breasts, (boneless, skinless), about 5-6 count
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ Sauce, I used Sweet Baby Rays Honey BBQ
- 1/2 medium onion, grated (with juice)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
- Stir together all sauce ingredients in a 5-6 qt slow cooker.
- Add the chicken to the sauce and turn to coat.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours, or on low for 6-7 hours. Check earlier if using smaller chicken pieces or a hotter slow cooker.
- The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F and shreds easily.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the crockpot. Stir to coat with the sauce.
15. Crockpot Lemon Chicken
Bright, fresh, and effortlessly delicious, crockpot lemon chicken is a weeknight hero. A blend of garlic, butter, and lemon juice creates a silky sauce that coats every bite, while slow cooking ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender. The citrusy tang balances beautifully with a touch of honey, making this dish light yet deeply satisfying.
Pair it with roasted veggies, fluffy rice, or crusty bread to soak up all that golden, lemony goodness. It’s the perfect meal for when you want something fresh but cozy. Ready to bring some sunshine to your dinner table? Click for the full recipe!
Servings: 6 people
Ingredients:
- 5 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon chicken base, optional, but delicious!
Instructions:
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with kosher salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add it to the pan.
- Cook the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to your slow cooker.
- Pour lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and remaining butter pieces into the slow cooker. (Avoid cooking the lemons in the slow cooker.)
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- In a large measuring cup, whisk together half and half, cornstarch, and chicken base.
- Pour the mixture into the slow cooker, stir, and cook for an additional hour on high..
