Here’s a basic and versatile recipe for slow cooker chicken breasts that you can customize to your taste:
Slow Cooker Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth (or low-sodium chicken broth)
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil.
2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional):
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker on top of the onions and garlic.
- Pour the chicken broth and salsa over the chicken.
4. Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.
5. Shred the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, potatoes, or a salad.
Tips:
- Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes to the slow cooker for a complete meal.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to suit your taste. BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, or curry paste can be great alternatives to salsa.
- Serve Suggestions: Use the shredded chicken for tacos, burritos, sandwiches, or over a bed of greens for a tasty salad.
This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for busy days, offering a flavorful and versatile chicken dish that you can enjoy in various ways!
