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 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

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken recipe makes meal prep a breeze! Perfectly seasoned and incredibly tender, it's a versatile dish for any meal.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:16:15.169Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a game changer for busy weeknights! With just a few ingredients, you can have juicy, flavorful chicken ready to use in tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless meal prep with minimal ingredients
Perfectly tender and juicy chicken every time
Versatile for numerous dishes and cuisines

      

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken recipe is its meal prep-friendly nature. By cooking a large batch, you can easily portion out the shredded chicken into containers for the week ahead. This not only saves you time during busy weekdays but also allows you to have healthy, homemade meals ready to go. Simply pair it with your favorite sides, and you'll have delicious, nutritious meals in no time.

The versatility of this shredded chicken means you can use it in various dishes throughout the week. Whether you're looking to make tacos, salads, sandwiches, or a hearty soup, this chicken is an ideal base. You can customize the flavors to suit different cuisines, ensuring that every meal feels unique and satisfying.

Flavorful and Tender

Achieving perfectly tender and juicy chicken can be a challenge, but this slow cooker method guarantees success every time. The low and slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the seasonings and broth, resulting in an incredibly moist and flavorful dish. Unlike other cooking methods that may dry out the meat, the slow cooker retains moisture, making shredding effortless.

The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika creates a well-rounded flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences or even add your favorite spices to create a personal touch.

Easy to Customize

This shredded chicken recipe serves as a blank canvas for creativity. Feel free to experiment with different spices and sauces to match your desired flavor profile. For a touch of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder. If you prefer a sweeter taste, a dash of honey or barbecue sauce can elevate the dish.

Additionally, you can incorporate various ingredients into the slow cooker, such as diced vegetables or beans, to create a complete meal in one pot. This adaptability means you can enjoy this recipe in countless ways, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your shredded chicken:

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

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your shredded chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add Chicken Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken breasts.

Cook

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

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the juices.

Your shredded chicken is now ready to serve!

Tips for Success

To ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time, it's essential to avoid overcooking. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker model. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you're unsure, it's better to check early to prevent dryness.

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight with your favorite spices and liquids. This extra step can enhance the taste and tenderness, making the chicken even more enjoyable once cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Once your shredded chicken is ready, the possibilities are endless! Serve it in tacos with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a quick and tasty meal. Alternatively, use it in a hearty chicken salad with crunchy vegetables and dressing for a satisfying lunch.

For a comforting dinner, mix the shredded chicken into a creamy pasta dish or a spicy enchilada casserole. You can also freeze leftovers for later use, making this recipe a fantastic option for batch cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken in portioned bags. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

If reheating from frozen, it's best to use the microwave or a slow cooker to ensure even warming. This will help preserve the chicken's tender texture and flavor, making your next meal just as delicious as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.

→ How long does shredded chicken last in the fridge?

Shredded chicken can last in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze shredded chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I use shredded chicken for?

Shredded chicken is versatile! Use it in tacos, salads, sandwiches, or casseroles.