Crockpot Shredded Chicken: The Ultimate Cozy Comfort Food
As the leaves begin to turn golden and the air fills with that brisk, refreshing promise of fall, it’s time to transition our meals to something hearty and comforting. There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of tender chicken simmering away in the kitchen, filling your home with warmth and cozy vibes. This easy-to-make Crockpot Shredded Chicken recipe transports me back to family gatherings where love was served alongside delicious food.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for a busy week, this recipe is wholesome, versatile, and oh-so-delicious. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless: Just pop your ingredients into the crockpot, set it, and let the magic happen.
- Tender and Juicy: The chicken cooks slowly, resulting in incredibly tender, juicy meat that will practically melt in your mouth.
- Versatile: Use the shredded chicken in a variety of dishes, from tacos to salads, making it perfect for a busy week.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a fantastic option for family dinners.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Prepare your chicken in advance and enjoy it all week long, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
What You’ll Need
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (optional)
Let’s Make It Together
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, laying them flat so they cook evenly.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, allowing the soothing liquid to coat each piece.
- Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and taco seasoning (if using) for that zesty kick.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and easy to shred.
- Once done, shred the chicken with two forks, mixing it with the savory juices left in the crockpot for an extra burst of flavor before serving.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Zesty Lemon & Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with some fresh thyme or rosemary for a bright, refreshing twist.
- Buffalo Chicken: Stir in some buffalo sauce after shredding for a spicy kick, perfect for sandwiches or wraps!
- BBQ Shredded Chicken: Toss in your favorite BBQ sauce at the end for a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
- Creamy Salsa Chicken: Mix in a jar of salsa and a dollop of cream cheese before serving for a rich, comfort-food experience.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead: Refrigerate shredded chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have garlic or onion powder on hand, fresh minced garlic or onion works wonderfully too—just adjust the amounts to taste.
- Perfect Shredding: For even easier shredding, let the chicken cool slightly; it will tear apart just by glancing at it!
- Storage Tips: Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also defrost frozen chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 cup shredded chicken
- Calories: 275
- Carbs: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 50g
- Sodium: 500mg
Reader FAQs About Crockpot Shredded Chicken
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Cook it in advance and enjoy meals throughout the week.
Can I use different ingredients?
Certainly! Feel free to swap in different spices or broth bases to match your taste preferences.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container; they’ll last in the fridge for up to 4 days!
How long does it last?
When frozen, it can be enjoyed for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label your containers!
Wrapping It Up
This Crockpot Shredded Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to enjoy cozy moments with family and friends. Its versatility makes it suitable for a range of dishes, while the tender, savory goodness keeps you coming back for more. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your cozy weeknight dinners board so it’s always ready when you need a comforting treat!
Crockpot Shredded Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (optional) For additional flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot, laying them flat so they cook evenly.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, allowing the soothing liquid to coat each piece.
- Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and taco seasoning (if using) for that zesty kick.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender and easy to shred.
- Once done, shred the chicken with two forks, mixing it with the savory juices left in the crockpot for an extra burst of flavor before serving.
