Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, busy families often struggle to find the time to prepare healthy and delicious meals. Fortunately, the slow cooker offers an easy solution to this dilemma. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create mouthwatering slow cooker pan cooked chicken breast that will please everyone at the table. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners.
Slow cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while infusing it with savory flavors from herbs and spices. The best part? You can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks or enjoy some quality time with your family. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preparing your slow cooker. Lightly grease the inside with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir well.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker, then pour the broth mixture over them.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low for 4 hours. If you prefer, you can also cook it on high for 2 hours.
- Once the cooking time is up, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Drizzle some of the cooking liquid over the sliced chicken and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve the chicken breast with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or rice, and enjoy!
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
The beauty of a slow cooker lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into a flavorful meal without the need for constant attention. This method of cooking is perfect for busy families who may not have the luxury of time to stand over the stove.
Using a slow cooker allows you to:
- Save time by prepping ingredients in advance.
- Cook meals while you attend to other tasks.
- Enjoy tender and juicy chicken that’s full of flavor.
- Reduce cleanup time with minimal cookware involved.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
To ensure your slow cooker pan cooked chicken breast turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
1. Choose Quality Chicken
Select high-quality, fresh chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Organic or free-range options are often more flavorful than conventionally raised chicken.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker
Make sure to leave enough space for the chicken breasts. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less tender results.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is essential for checking the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F to be safe to eat.
4. Experiment with Seasonings
Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your family’s tastes. Add paprika for a smoky flavor or cayenne for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker pan cooked chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions to round out your meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies with olive oil and herbs, then roast until tender.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
- Salad: A fresh garden salad can provide a crisp contrast to the tender chicken.
- Pasta: Combine the chicken with whole grain pasta and your favorite sauce for a hearty dish.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat until warmed through, or reheat in the slow cooker on low for about 30 minutes.
You can also freeze leftover chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to label the container with the date for easy reference. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker?
It is not recommended to use frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker. For food safety reasons, always thaw chicken before cooking.
2. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or even water. Adding a bit of extra seasoning can enhance the flavor.
3. Can I cook this on high heat?
Yes, you can cook the chicken on high for about 2 hours instead of 4 hours on low. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. How can I add more flavor to the chicken?
Marinating the chicken for a few hours before cooking can add more depth of flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preferences.
Conclusion
This slow cooker pan cooked chicken breast recipe is a game-changer for busy families. With its ease of preparation and delicious flavors, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether served with a side of vegetables, over rice, or in a salad, this chicken dish is versatile enough to satisfy everyone at the table. Embrace the convenience of slow cooking and enjoy more time with your loved ones while still providing them with a nutritious meal. Try this recipe today, and you won’t be disappointed!
