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 offers a hassle-free way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:16:12.355Z

This Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner. Just set it and forget it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with just a few ingredients
Versatile for tacos, salads, sandwiches, or as a main dish
Perfectly seasoned and juicy every time

      

Effortless Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken recipe is its effortless meal prep. With just a handful of ingredients, you can set everything up in minutes and let the slow cooker do the work for you. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal or tending to other tasks. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights or meal planning for the week ahead.

The slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures that your chicken turns out incredibly tender and flavorful. The long cooking time allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat, resulting in a dish that is both juicy and bursting with flavor. You can easily make a large batch and have leftovers for various meals throughout the week.

Versatility in Serving

Another reason to love this shredded chicken recipe is its versatility. Once cooked, the shredded chicken can be used in a multitude of ways, making it a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Whether you want to fill tacos with it, toss it on a fresh salad, pile it onto a sandwich, or serve it as a main dish with sides, the possibilities are endless.

This recipe also serves as a great base for other flavors. You can easily customize it by adding different spices or sauces, such as barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor, or salsa for a zesty twist. This adaptability makes it a favorite among families, as everyone can enjoy it in their own way.

Perfect for Meal Planning

If you're looking to streamline your weekly meals, this shredded chicken recipe is an excellent choice for meal planning. Cooking in bulk means you can prepare several meals at once, saving you time and effort throughout the week. Simply store the shredded chicken in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer, and you'll have ready-to-eat protein at your fingertips.

Using this chicken as a component in various meals allows for creativity while keeping your meal prep manageable. You can create different dishes each day, so you won't get bored with your meals. This approach not only promotes a balanced diet but also helps in reducing food waste, as you can use up every bit of your delicious chicken.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious 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 the ingredients ready, you can move on to the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create 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 Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken breasts to keep them moist during cooking.

Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Shred the Chicken

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

Your shredded chicken is now ready to be served!

Storing and Reheating

To store leftover shredded chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a convenient option for quick meals. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the shredded chicken. It can last up to three months in the freezer when properly stored. Just be sure to label your containers with the date for easy identification.

When it comes to reheating, you can do so in the microwave, on the stove, or even in the slow cooker. If using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. For a stovetop option, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist while reheating. This way, you can enjoy the same tender and juicy chicken even days after it was first cooked.

Serving Suggestions

This shredded chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also create a delicious burrito bowl by layering your shredded chicken with brown rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and avocado. It's not only a nutritious option but also visually appealing and satisfying.

For a refreshing twist, consider making a chicken salad. Combine the shredded chicken with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, chopped celery, grapes, and nuts for a delightful lunch option. Serve it on a bed of greens or in a wrap for an easy and tasty meal. The versatility of shredded chicken truly shines through with these serving suggestions.

Customizing Flavors

While this recipe is delightful as is, don't hesitate to make it your own by customizing the flavors. You can experiment with different spices, such as cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning, to suit your taste preferences. Additionally, adding a splash of hot sauce can give your chicken an extra kick, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

For a more international flair, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite sauces before cooking. Asian-inspired flavors like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic can transform the dish into a delightful stir-fry base. The adaptability of this recipe means you can enjoy a new taste experience every time you prepare it, keeping your meals exciting and diverse.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

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

→ What can I serve with shredded chicken?

Shredded chicken is great in tacos, salads, sandwiches, or over rice.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze shredded chicken?

Absolutely! You can freeze shredded chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.