Are you looking for an easy, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further! This recipe for crock pot bone-in chicken breasts will become your new go-to for juicy, flavorful chicken that practically cooks itself. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a lifesaver, delivering tender chicken with minimal effort. Forget dry, flavorless chicken breasts – this method ensures maximum moisture and incredible taste. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes browning. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor and a beautiful golden crust, heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. This step isn't essential, but it adds depth of flavor.
Step 3: Crock Pot Magic
Place the seared (or unseared) chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic around the chicken. Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing. Serve the chicken with the delicious cooking liquid as a gravy. This bone-in chicken is perfect served over rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Extra Delicious Chicken:
- Bone-in is Best: Bone-in chicken breasts retain moisture much better than boneless breasts during slow cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure there's enough space in your slow cooker for the chicken and vegetables to cook evenly.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts and your slow cooker. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Make it a Meal: Add other vegetables like potatoes, celery, or bell peppers to the crock pot for a complete one-pot meal.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano) to the slow cooker.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
- BBQ Chicken: After cooking, brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce and return it to the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes on low.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This recipe for slow cooker bone-in chicken breasts is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tender, juicy chicken is bursting with flavor, making it a healthy and delicious meal the whole family will love. Enjoy!