Introduction: Experience the convenience and culinary excellence of Slow Cooker Chicken Breast, a dish that combines simplicity with exceptional taste. This recipe offers a hassle-free approach to cooking chicken breasts, resulting in tender, moist, and flavorful meat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy parent seeking a time-saving dinner solution or a home cook looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
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Ingredients and Preparation: To embark on this culinary journey, gather boneless, skinless chicken breasts, onions, garlic, and an array of aromatic herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, oregano, and paprika. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with the herb and spice mixture, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly for maximum flavor. For added depth, sauté sliced onions and minced garlic until fragrant, then layer them at the bottom of the slow cooker to serve as a flavorful base for the chicken.
Slow Cooking Process: Once assembled, carefully arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic mixture in the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth or stock until the chicken is partially submerged, allowing it to cook gently and infuse with the rich flavors of the broth. Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the magic unfold as the chicken breasts slowly simmer and tenderize over the course of 4-5 hours. This gentle cooking method ensures that the chicken remains moist and succulent, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth perfection with every bite.
Serving and Enjoyment: As the aroma of herbs and spices fills your kitchen, anticipate the moment when you can savor the tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Chicken Breast. Once cooked to perfection, carefully transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter, allowing them to rest briefly before serving. Pair the chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a crisp salad, to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Optional Sauce and Garnish: For an extra touch of indulgence, consider transforming the cooking liquid into a luscious sauce by reducing it on the stovetop until thickened and flavorful. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken breasts before serving, adding a final flourish of freshness with a sprinkle of chopped herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Conclusion: With its tender texture, vibrant flavors, and effortless preparation, Slow Cooker Chicken Breast is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or showcased as the star of a special occasion meal, this dish offers a satisfying and delicious dining experience that’s sure to impress. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s both convenient and incredibly rewarding.
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 onion, sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup chicken broth or stock
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2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
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Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
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Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, and paprika. Rub the seasoning evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Brown the Chicken (Optional):
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If desired, you can brown the seasoned chicken breasts before adding them to the slow cooker. Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Brown the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor to the chicken, but it’s optional.
4. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
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Place the sautéed onion and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
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Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic.
5. Add Chicken Broth:
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Pour chicken broth or stock over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. The liquid should partially cover the chicken breasts, but they shouldn’t be fully submerged.
6. Cook on Low:
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Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken breasts on low heat for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts.
7. Serve:
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Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter.
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Serve the slow cooker chicken breasts hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy them alongside your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or salad.
8. Optional Step: Make a Sauce:
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If you’d like to make a sauce with the cooking liquid, you can strain the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until it reduces and thickens slightly. You can also stir in a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce further if desired. Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts before serving.
Note: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. Enjoy your tender and flavorful slow cooker chicken breasts!
