Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a versatile dish that's perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

Mia Jefferson

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:58:07.254Z

This recipe for Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken allows you to make tender and flavorful chicken effortlessly. Just set it and forget it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Tender and juicy chicken every time
  • Perfect for tacos, salads, or sandwiches
  • Simple ingredients and minimal prep required

Perfect for Meal Prep

Meal prep can be a daunting task, but with this Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken, it becomes a breeze. You can make a large batch at once, ensuring you have enough juicy chicken ready for the week. This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days and freezes beautifully for longer storage. Portion it out into containers, and you’ll have ready-to-go meals for salads, wraps, and tacos without the hassle of cooking each day.

To make your meal prep even easier, consider pairing this shredded chicken with various sides. You can prepare brown rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables to complement your chicken. This flexibility allows you to create diverse meals throughout the week, preventing boredom and keeping your taste buds happy.

Versatility in the Kitchen

One of the best features of this shredded chicken is its versatility. It serves as a fantastic base for numerous dishes. Whether you’re hosting a taco night, whipping up a quick salad, or making hearty sandwiches, this chicken adapts to any flavor profile. You can easily customize it with different sauces or spices to match your craving, making it a staple in your kitchen.

For a fun twist, try using the shredded chicken in international cuisines. Add some barbecue sauce for a Southern flair, incorporate it into an Asian stir-fry with soy sauce, or mix it with taco seasoning for a fiesta. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to experiment and delight your family with new meals.

Family-Friendly Meal

Finding meals that please everyone in the family can be a challenge, but this Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a surefire hit. Its mild flavor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners. Plus, since it’s cooked in a slow cooker, it retains moisture and tenderness, ensuring every bite is delicious.

Involving kids in the kitchen can also be a fun bonding experience. Let them help with shredding the chicken or assembling their own tacos. This not only makes meal prep easier but also encourages them to try new foods and learn about cooking, setting them up for a lifetime of culinary exploration.

Ingredients

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the seasonings to match your taste!

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.

Add Seasonings

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds with a fork.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot to mix with the juices.

Serve

Enjoy the shredded chicken in your favorite dishes!

This shredded chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Storage Tips

To maximize the shelf life of your shredded chicken, always store it in airtight containers. This prevents moisture loss and keeps the chicken fresh for longer. If you plan to freeze it, consider dividing the chicken into meal-sized portions before sealing them in freezer bags. This way, you can easily thaw only what you need for future meals without wasting any.

When reheating, make sure to add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This will help preserve the flavor and texture, making it just as delicious as when it was freshly cooked.

Serving Suggestions

There are countless ways to enjoy this shredded chicken. For a quick and satisfying meal, serve it over a bed of greens for a hearty salad. Top it with your favorite veggies, cheese, and a drizzle of dressing for a nutritious dish. Alternatively, use it as a filling for burritos or enchiladas, layering with beans and cheese for a fulfilling dinner.

For a cozy comfort food option, mix the shredded chicken into a creamy sauce and serve it over rice or pasta. This transforms the dish into a warm and hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. The adaptability of this shredded chicken means you can keep your meals exciting and varied every day.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time to 7-8 hours on low.

→ What can I serve this shredded chicken with?

It's great in tacos, on salads, in sandwiches, or served over rice.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze the shredded chicken?

Yes, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a versatile dish that's perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration6 hours
Overall Time6 hours 10 minutes

Created by: Mia Jefferson

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1 cup chicken broth
  3. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  4. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  5. 1 teaspoon paprika
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.

Step 02

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 03

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds with a fork.

Step 04

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot to mix with the juices.

Step 05

Enjoy the shredded chicken in your favorite dishes!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Total Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 42g