Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

Name: Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a versatile and easy dish that can be used in a variety of meals. Perfectly seasoned and tender, it will become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:19:05.781Z

Slow cookers are a lifesaver for busy families and individuals. This shredded chicken recipe is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful, making it perfect for tacos, salads, or sandwiches.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Minimal prep time for a delicious homemade meal
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Versatile for various dishes like tacos, salads, and sandwiches

      

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

When life gets busy, it can be challenging to prepare a wholesome meal. This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is the answer to your weeknight dinner woes. With minimal prep time, you can simply place the ingredients in the slow cooker in the morning and let it do all the work for you. By the time you get home, a delicious, ready-to-eat meal awaits you, allowing you to spend more time with your family and less time in the kitchen.

Not only does this dish save you time, but it also eliminates the stress of meal planning. You can easily incorporate shredded chicken into various recipes throughout the week, making it a versatile option for busy families.

Endless Meal Possibilities

One of the best features of this shredded chicken is its versatility. It can be used in countless dishes, from classic tacos to fresh salads or hearty sandwiches. The mild flavor allows it to adapt to any cuisine, making it a fantastic base for your culinary creativity. You can dress it up with different sauces or seasonings, ensuring that your meals never get monotonous.

For a quick taco night, simply add the shredded chicken to corn tortillas and top with your favorite salsa, avocado, and cheese. For a refreshing salad, toss it with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. The possibilities are truly endless!

Great for Meal Prep

If you're looking to streamline your meal prep routine, this shredded chicken is perfect. You can make a big batch at once, portion it out into containers, and refrigerate or freeze for later use. This way, you’ll have a flavorful protein ready to go for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Having pre-cooked shredded chicken on hand also helps you make healthier choices. Instead of reaching for processed options, you can whip up nutritious meals in no time, keeping your diet balanced and satisfying.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Shredded Chicken

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to adjust the seasonings according to your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Drizzle with olive oil and add the chicken broth.

Season the Chicken

Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. Ensure all pieces are well-coated.

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

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the cooker and mix with the juices.

Serve

Enjoy the shredded chicken in your favorite dishes!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Storage Tips

To keep your shredded chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Properly stored, frozen shredded chicken can last up to three months, providing you with a quick meal option whenever you need it.

When you're ready to use the frozen chicken, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave's defrost setting. This ensures that the chicken maintains its texture and flavor when reheated.

Flavor Variations

While the basic seasoning in this recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with different flavors. Adding a tablespoon of taco seasoning can give the chicken a zesty kick, perfect for taco night. Alternatively, a few sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish for a more sophisticated meal.

For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or some chipotle powder. These variations can transform your shredded chicken into something new and exciting with each preparation.

Serving Suggestions

This shredded chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over a bed of rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a wholesome meal. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty grain salad for added nutrition.

If you're in the mood for comfort food, mix the shredded chicken into a creamy pasta dish or use it as a filling for enchiladas. The options are endless, making it easy to adapt to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ What can I serve with shredded chicken?

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

→ Can I freeze the shredded chicken?

Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.