This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts Recipe is a lifesaver for busy days! You simply toss chicken breasts in the slow cooker with your favorite spices or sauces, and let it do the work.
The chicken comes out tender and juicy every time. I love serving it with veggies or over rice for a quick meal. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of dinner being ready when you walk in? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you have chicken thighs on hand, they make a nice alternative with even more flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you could use avocado oil or coconut oil instead, both of which work well in slow cooking.
Dijon Mustard: It gives a tangy kick. If you don’t have Dijon, you could use yellow mustard or even honey mustard, but be cautious of adding extra sugar.
Honey: This adds sweetness to balance the mustard. Maple syrup or agave syrup are great substitutes if you’re looking for something different.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always better for flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping chicken juicy in a slow cooker is all about temperature and cooking time. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with dry chicken breasts; this helps with browning.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours. Avoid high heat; it cooks too quickly, making the chicken dry.
- Use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
- Rest the chicken briefly before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh rosemary leaves (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish and optional zest for sauce)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 3 to 4 hours to cook in the slow cooker. You’ll have deliciously tender chicken ready for dinner without a lot of hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps with browning when cooked. Next, season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. This adds delicious flavor right from the start!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and chicken broth (or water) until everything is well combined. This mixture will coat the chicken and infuse it with flavor while cooking.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker, laying them in a single layer if possible. Pour the mustard-honey mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is covered evenly.
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is ready when it is tender and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve:
Once the chicken is done, use tongs to carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a serving plate. If you’d like to thicken the sauce, pour the cooking juices into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until it reduces slightly. Then, drizzle the sauce over the chicken.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish the chicken with fresh rosemary leaves and lemon slices. You can squeeze some lemon juice over the top for extra flavor! Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy your juicy, flavorful slow cooker chicken breasts!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, just make sure to increase the cooking time to about 5 to 6 hours on low. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard available, yellow mustard or honey mustard can be used as substitutes. Just remember that honey mustard will add extra sweetness, so you might want to adjust the honey in the recipe accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker?
Yes! You can add veggies like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the slow cooker. Just be sure to layer them at the bottom, and add the chicken on top to ensure even cooking. The cooking time will remain the same, but the veggies will soak up all the delicious flavors!
