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Slow Cooker Chicken Breast: Juicy, Flavorful, and Perfectly Tender Every Time

Sliced slow cooker chicken breast on white plate with garlic butter sauce and fresh herbs

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Incredibly tender and juicy slow cooker chicken breast with buttery garlic herb sauce. Perfect for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (34 medium breasts)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 tablespoons butter, cut into cubes
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 23 fresh sprigs
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Place seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
  3. Scatter minced garlic over chicken, distribute butter cubes evenly on top, then pour chicken broth and lemon juice over everything. Add thyme.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours (recommended) or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours. Check temperature at minimum cooking time.
  5. Use a meat thermometer to verify internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part.
  6. Transfer chicken to cutting board and slice against the grain, or shred directly in the pot with two forks to absorb the sauce.
  7. Spoon remaining garlic butter sauce over chicken before serving.

Notes

  • Always cook on LOW for most tender, juicy results. High heat works in a pinch but may produce slightly less tender texture.
  • Don’t overcook beyond 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high – even in a slow cooker chicken can dry out.
  • Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning for better spice adherence.
  • If chicken breasts are very thick (over 1 inch), butterfly or pound to even thickness.
  • Store with sauce for up to 4 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen.

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