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Tender Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Recipe for Easy Meal Prep Success

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This tender slow cooker shredded chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeks, delivering melt-in-your-mouth chicken that’s versatile for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more. It’s simple, forgiving, and ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 45 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 to 2.5 lbs / 9001100 g)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (240 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
  • Optional: splash of fresh lemon juice or 1 teaspoon honey

Instructions

  1. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. (5 minutes)
  3. Drizzle olive oil at the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer. Pour the chicken broth over the top. (2 minutes)
  4. Cover and set the slow cooker to low heat. Cook for 6 to 8 hours until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to shred easily. (6-8 hours)
  5. Carefully remove the chicken breasts using tongs. Place on a large plate or bowl. Use two forks or meat claws to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. (5 minutes)
  6. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to coat in the flavorful broth. (2 minutes)
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. (1 minute)

Notes

Do not lift the slow cooker lid during cooking to avoid heat loss and extended cooking time. If broth is too thin, reduce it on the stove to thicken before mixing back with shredded chicken. For reheating, warm gently with a splash of broth or water to keep chicken moist. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for richer flavor. Use certified gluten-free broth for gluten-free version.

Nutrition

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