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Easy Never-Dry Overnight Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipe

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This easy never-dry overnight crockpot chicken breast recipe uses a cold start method and simple ingredients to produce tender, juicy chicken perfect for meal prep. Set it before bed and wake up to perfectly cooked chicken for sandwiches, tacos, salads, and more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2–3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2–3 fresh lemon slices (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
  2. Pour the chicken broth and olive oil into the bottom of a cold slow cooker insert. Stir briefly.
  3. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the broth. If using, place lemon slices on top.
  4. Place the lid on the slow cooker and refrigerate the insert for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours (cold start).
  5. When ready to cook, place the insert in the slow cooker base, set to LOW, and cook for 7-8 hours. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
  6. In the morning, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should be at least 165°F (74°C). If slightly under, cook for another 30 minutes.
  7. Remove chicken from the slow cooker using tongs and let rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Shred with two forks or a hand mixer. Drizzle with a little cooking liquid to keep moist if desired.

Notes

The cold start method is key: refrigerating the chicken and liquid before cooking ensures even, gentle heat. Do not lift the lid during cooking. For best texture, pull chicken at 160°F (71°C) and let rest; carryover cooking will bring it to 165°F (74°C). Save the cooking liquid for soups or rice.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken breast, never dry chicken, meal prep chicken, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/easy-never-dry-overnight-crockpot-chicken-breast-recipe/