The BEST Easy Chicken Recipes - The Recipe Rebel https://www.thereciperebel.com/category/mains/chicken/ Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:08:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.thereciperebel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/cropped-pwa-32x32.png The BEST Easy Chicken Recipes - The Recipe Rebel https://www.thereciperebel.com/category/mains/chicken/ 32 32 Chicken Pot Pie Soup https://www.thereciperebel.com/chicken-pot-pie-soup/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/chicken-pot-pie-soup/#comments Mon, 26 Feb 2024 06:53:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=20093 Chicken Pot Pie Soup is thick, creamy, and loaded with vegetables and tender pieces of chicken! It’s made in one…

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Chicken Pot Pie Soup is thick, creamy, and loaded with vegetables and tender pieces of chicken! It’s made in one pot and topped with biscuits or pastry, making it the perfect cold weather comfort food.

Cozy up with more comforting chicken soup recipes like Chicken Dumpling Soup, Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup and Chicken Rice Soup.

bowl of chicken pot pie soup with spoon and biscuit on the side.

This Chicken Pot Pie Soup recipe was an instant family favorite the first time I whipped it up, and for a few reasons!

The kids really love how thick and creamy it is. I love how easy it is to make and that it’s loaded with vegetables.

The best part? There’s only one pot to wash!

It stores perfectly in the fridge for a few days, so it’s perfect for making a big batch on the weekend to enjoy through the week — or make a double batch right away and pack up the rest for school lunches!

Essentially, it’s a deconstructed chicken pot pie that’s served in a soup form. It’s one of my favorite winter recipes. See how it’s made down below!

Why we love this Chicken Pot Pie Soup:

  • One Pot: One pot soup recipes really help me get through the cold months. They’re so easy to make, even easier to clean, and comforting as can be.
  • Kid Friendly: My kids gobble this soup up! I love serving it to them because it’s loaded with protein and veggies that even the pickiest of eaters don’t mind.
  • Make Ahead: This is a wonderful make ahead soup recipe. Scroll down a little bit to see more detailed info on how to store this chicken pot pie soup for later.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup Ingredients Needed:

ingredients needed for chicken pot pie soup in glass bowls.
  • Chicken Breast – Any boneless, skinless chicken will work great! Cooking them whole in the soup keeps them moist.
  • Veggies – This recipe features the classic blend of vegetables you’d traditionally find in a pot pie – peas, carrots, celery and corn. Feel free to add to this list as you like.
  • Onion – Use a white or yellow onion.
  • Potatoes – Yukon gold potatoes work best as they are deliciously tender and buttery.
  • Milk – Feel free to use any kind of milk you like best.
  • Flour – All-purpose flour is used to create the roux that thickens the soup to the very best rich consistency.
  • Butter – Unsalted butter is preferred.
  • Chicken Broth – Just like with the butter, it’s best to use unsalted (or low-sodium) chicken broth. If you want more salt, you can always sprinkle some more in later.
  • Garlic – Feel free to add a little extra if you’re a garlic lover!
  • Seasonings – Create the very best flavor with parsley, thyme, and just a little salt and black pepper.

How to make Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Here’s a quick look at how to make the BEST chicken pot pie soup recipe! Scroll to the bottom of this page to see more detailed steps and ingredients.

  • Sauté the carrots, celery and onions in a little bit of oil until softened.
  • Stir in the garlic, salt, pepper, thyme and parsley.
  • Add the broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to make sure all of the brown bits are mixed in.
  • Add the potatoes and chicken. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and cook until the potatoes are tender.
  • Whisk together flour and melted butter. Then, whisk in the milk and thicken in the microwave.
  • Stir the veggies and roux into the pot. Shred the chicken and stir it all together.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Use chicken thighs: You can use thighs instead of breasts, and there’s no need to change any other part of the recipe.
  • Use leftover chicken or turkey: Simply skip the sautéing of the chicken and go right to the vegetables. Add your leftover cooked chicken or turkey in. This is perfect if you have leftovers from this Perfect Roast Chicken or you made a big batch of this Crockpot Shredded Chicken or Instant Pot Shredded Chicken that you have stashed in the fridge.
  • Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you need to get out of the fridge, or substitute the ones I use for other favorites. Keep in mind that some quick cooking vegetables should be added at the end (spinach, broccoli, green beans, etc), and others (peppers, cauliflower, mushrooms, root vegetables) take longer, so plan accordingly.
  • Make it dairy free: Feel free to swap the milk with dairy free milk or cream for a creamy soup, or additional chicken broth.

How to Store Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave and zap it for 30 seconds at a time. Stir every time it stops to evenly distribute the heat.

chicken pot pie soup being scooped out of a large pot.

Can I freeze chicken pot pie soup?

Yes, sort of! Just allow it to fully cool to room temperature prior to storing.

The texture of low fat dairy as well as potatoes does change when they are frozen, and it may not be appetizing to some people. For that reason, this is not my favorite soup to freeze.

If you’re not picky about food textures, then you can absolutely freeze this soup!

Once cooled, pour the soup into a large zip-top bag. Lay it flat on a baking sheet and let freeze for at least 1 hour – this will make it flat and easy to store in the freezer.

Chicken pot pie soup will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it defrost in the fridge for a few hours prior to reheating.

Can I make it in the Crockpot?

Absolutely!

Most likely, I would add the carrots through to the chicken breast into the Crockpot and skip the sautéeing. You could also follow the original instructions to saute the vegetables before adding to the slow cooker.

Let cook on low for 4-6 hours, until the vegetables are tender, then shred the chicken, add in the frozen vegetables and the thickened milk.

large pot filled with chicken pot pie soup and wooden ladle.

Serving Suggestions:

You can always enjoy this soup just the way it is… Or, you could go the extra mile and serve it with some amazing toppings!

Here are just a few delicious options:

  • Homemade biscuits (like my favorite Cheddar Bay Biscuits).
  • These homemade Drop Dumplings for Soup.
  • Crackers
  • Pie Pastry (homemade or store bought) rolled out into rounds and baked flat on a baking sheet.
  • Puff pastry rounds: cut refrigerated puff pastry into rounds or other shapes, and bake them off on a baking sheet until golden. If you have any leftover puff pastry, use it to make an actual Chicken Pot Pie!
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Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken Pot Pie Soup is thick, creamy, and loaded with vegetables and tender pieces of chicken! It's made in one pot and topped with biscuits or pastry, making it the perfect cold weather comfort food.
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 423cal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil
  • 2 large carrots (peeled and diced)
  • 1 rib celery (finely chopped)
  • ½ medium onion (finely diced)
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • ¾ lb yukon gold potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes — cut into ½ inch pieces)
  • 1 boneless skinless chicken breast
  • ½ cup frozen corn
  • ½ cup frozen peas

Roux:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk (any kind)

Instructions

  • Add oil to a large dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add carrots, celery and onion and cook on medium heat, stirring often, until onions are translucent and vegetables are slightly softened.
  • Stir in garlic, salt, parsley, thyme and pepper and cook 1 minute.
  • Add broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to ensure any browned bits are removed.
  • Stir in potatoes and nestle chicken breast down in the liquid. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer until potatoes are tender.
  • Meanwhile, make your roux and thicken your milk. In a large glass bowl or measuring cup, melt the butter in the microwave on high, 30-45 seconds at a time.
  • Stir in the flour until completely absorbed.
  • Whisk in the milk until smooth, using a scraper to get into the edges of the cup and ensure all of the flour has been whisked into the milk.
  • Microwave on high in 45 second intervals, whisking each time, until thickened. 4 times at 45 seconds was perfect for me. Be sure to keep an eye on it in the microwave as it will bubble up — you need to use a bowl or cup with lots of room left at the top.
  • When potatoes are tender and chicken is cooked through (about 10-15 minutes), remove chicken breast and shred. Stir in the frozen peans, frozen corn and the thickened milk along with the shredded chicken.
  • Let soup simmer on medium-low heat until heated through, then serve with biscuits or any of the options listed in the post above.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 457grams | Calories: 423cal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 58mg | Sodium: 745mg | Potassium: 984mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 5782IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 146mg | Iron: 2mg

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15 Chicken Casserole Recipes https://www.thereciperebel.com/chicken-casserole-recipes/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/chicken-casserole-recipes/#comments Wed, 21 Feb 2024 06:08:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=43574 These Chicken Casserole Recipes are all so comforting, easy, and family friendly! Whether you’re headed to a potluck or you’re…

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These Chicken Casserole Recipes are all so comforting, easy, and family friendly! Whether you’re headed to a potluck or you’re planning tonight’s dinner, there are plenty of amazing casserole recipes here to choose from.

long collage image with nine casserole images and heading

We love a good casserole recipe – especially when it features chicken! Chicken is one of those ingredients that can be dressed up a million different ways and still be delicious. These casseroles are all so different and SO good!

I’ll be honest… it was a bit of a challenge to compile this list. It feels so definitive and I find a new chicken casserole recipe to obsess over all the time!

With that being said, the recipes all mentioned here were selected because (in my humble opinion) they truly are the very best.

So the next time you have some chicken sitting in your fridge and you’re not sure what to do with it, circle back to this page and let me give you some delicious ideas!

Using Leftover Chicken

Do you have some leftover chicken breast in the fridge you’re just not sure what to do with? Toss it in a casserole! Chicken casseroles are perfect for using leftover baked chicken breast, store-bought rotisserie chicken or shredded chicken.

Learn how to make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken and Crockpot Shredded Chicken to cut down on prep time!

Freezing Chicken Casseroles

Be sure to check and see if any of the recipes listed have more specific rules when it comes to freezing them! Here’s a quick rundown of tips to keep in mind when freezing chicken casseroles:

  • In most cases, pasta casseroles and casseroles with cooked potatoes and veggies will freeze perfectly.
  • Some veggies will soften a lot after freezing and reheating, so you have to keep that in mind if you’re prepping your casserole for the freezer! Peppers aren’t my favorite out of the freezer. If they’re featured in a soup or chili, it’s fine, but recipes with large chunks really highlight the change in texture.
  • Potatoes and pasta will change in texture after freezing, so whether or not you want to freeze these are up to you. When cooking pasta to freeze, always be sure to undercook it slightly and thaw before reheating.
  • Let your frozen casserole slowly thaw in the fridge prior to reheating. I usually will remove the casserole from the freezer and pop it in the fridge in the morning, that way it’s ready to bake by dinner time. That way it won’t require as much time in the oven and will reheat more evenly.

Making Chicken Casseroles Ahead of Time

It’s always nice to have a chicken casserole waiting for you in your fridge! While all of these recipes have slightly different storage and reheating instructions, here are a few rules of thumb:

  • If you’re refrigerating a cooked casserole, allow it fully cool to room temperature prior to storing.
  • Most chicken casseroles can be assembled up to the point of baking. Instead of placing the casserole in the oven, store it in the fridge and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. They’ll stay good in the fridge for a day or two.

Chicken Casserole Recipes

Top view of chicken enchilada casserole in a large white dish.
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
This delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole is made by layering juicy shredded chicken, homemade red enchilada sauce, corn tortillas, and loads of melty cheese!
Check out this recipe
close up image of wooden spoon stuck in chicken noodle casserole.
Chicken Noodle Casserole
This Chicken Noodle Casserole is classic comfort food ready with just 15 minutes of prep! Tender egg noodles, veggies, and juicy bites of chicken baked in a rich cream sauce.
Check out this recipe
overhead image of chicken pot pie casserole with biscuits
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a completely made-from-scratch comfort food classic! It’s packed with veggies and tender bites of chicken then layered with a fluffy homemade biscuit topping.
Check out this recipe
overhead image of chicken alfredo bake with spoon stuck in.
Chicken Alfredo Bake
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is an easy meal-prep and freezer friendly dinner option! Tender pasta and chicken are tossed in homemade Alfredo sauce, topped with cheese, then baked until hot and gooey.
Check out this recipe
chicken spaghetti being scooped out of pan
Healthier Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake
This Healthier Creamy Chicken Spaghetti Bake is a healthier version of a Pioneer Woman classic — homemade with no cream soups! It’s an easy make ahead and freezer friendly meal. Includes how to recipe video
Check out this recipe
chicken and rice bake in casserole dish
7 Ingredient Chicken and Rice Bake
This easy Chicken and Rice Bake has just 7 ingredients and is so easy to customize! Get a healthy dinner on the table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Check out this recipe
Chicken and stuffing casserole is presented on a white plate.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole (+Video)
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole is an easy, one dish dinner that’s a family favorite! Made with pantry staples- it’s filling, and delicious!
Check out this recipe
A plate of king ranch chicken casserole is plated next to a whole dish.
King Ranch Chicken Casserole (No Canned Soup)
This made from scratch King Ranch Chicken Casserole has layers of chicken, tortillas, cheese, and a creamy sauce, with NO canned soups!
Check out this recipe
Dorito chicken casserole is garnished with salsa.
Dorito Casserole
This cheesy dorito casserole is loaded with chicken, Nacho Cheese Doritos, and loads of cheese! My husband and kids love this one!
Check out this recipe
A white casserole dish is filled with baked bbq ranch casserole.
BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole
Easy pasta casserole loaded with chicken, tomatoes, corn, red onion, and lots of cheese! This chicken, cheesy goodness is baked with BBQ ranch sauce.
Check out this recipe
A close up shot shows a jalapeno popper chicken casserole in a baking dish.
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole
Jalapeno fans will love this Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole. It’s super creamy and in addition to bacon and chicken it also has pasta and lots of cheese.
Check out this recipe
a serving of chicken parmesan casserole is being lifted from a dish.
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Chicken Parmesan Casserole features the flavors and textures of classic chicken parmesan, but with less work as it’s converted into a easy, satisfying casserole ready in just 35 minutes.
Check out this recipe
A serving of chicken teriyaki casserole is on a plate.
Baked Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Recipe
Easy Baked Teriyaki Chicken Casserole recipe is a ONE POT chicken dinner that’s family friendly. Just stir together the ingredients and bake! The perfect meal!
Check out this recipe
buffalo chicken casserole is garnished with a drizzle of sour cream.
Buffalo Chicken Casserole
No one can resist this easy Buffalo Chicken Casserole made with layers of seasoned potatoes, chicken, cheese, and bacon.
Check out this recipe
A serving spoon is placed in a full dish of chicken divan.
Chicken Divan
The best Chicken Divan recipe has rice, broccoli, chicken and a creamy curry sauce. It’s a healthier version and your family will LOVE it!
Check out this recipe

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Marry Me Chicken https://www.thereciperebel.com/marry-me-chicken/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/marry-me-chicken/#respond Mon, 12 Feb 2024 06:02:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=42241 Marry Me Chicken features golden chicken breasts simmered in a medley of bold ingredients like bacon, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes and…

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Marry Me Chicken features golden chicken breasts simmered in a medley of bold ingredients like bacon, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes and more! This one pan chicken recipe is served smothered in a creamy sauce that’s so good, you may just hear wedding bells.

Enjoy more easy chicken breast recipes like Crockpot Tuscan Chicken, Baked Monterey Chicken and Chicken Caprese Skillet.

overhead view of marry me chicken in black pan with parsley beside.

Marry me chicken is so worth the hype! This is one of those tried and true chicken recipes that everyone swears by, and there are so many reasons why it’s beloved.

And yes… Just as the name suggests, it’s been said that it’s so good that your meal might just end with a proposal.

It’s easy, creamy, filling, flavorful, and made all in one pan. This marry me chicken recipe checks all of the right boxes!

Why we love it:

  • One pan dinner: Easy to make and even easier to clean up. That’s two big wins in my kitchen!
  • So creamy: Thanks to the heavy cream that gets stirred in at the end, this chicken recipe is delightfully creamy.
  • Flavorful: Oh yes. There are a lot of ingredients that’ll make your mouth water! Garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, bacon and more create a medley of seriously satisfying flavors.
  • Versatile: There are quite a few ways to customize this recipe to best fit your tastes. Scroll down to check out some of my recommended variations to try.

Marry Me Chicken Ingredients:

ingredients needed for marry me chicken in bowls and on plate.
  • Chicken Breasts: You can swap these with thighs if you’d like.
  • Chicken Broth: I recommend using low-sodium broth and sprinkling in more salt as needed.
  • Cream: Heavy cream is recommended for the thickest, creamiest results! A lighter cream may be used but the final results won’t be as creamy.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Make sure to drain them well prior to chopping and using.
  • Tomato Paste: This enhances the tomato flavor in a wonderful way!
  • Cornstarch: This is used to thicken the sauce.
  • Bacon: This adds a great savory and salty flavor to the dish. Feel free to omit or swap with pancetta or turkey bacon if preferred.
  • Onion: A white or yellow onion both work very well.
  • Garlic: Feel free to measure with your heart!
  • Seasonings: Add the best flavor to your marry me chicken with red pepper flakes, salt, parsley, oregano and thyme. Adjust as needed.

How to make Marry Me Chicken:

Here’s a quick look at how to make this marry me chicken recipe! Scroll to the bottom of this page for detailed ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

  • Flatten the chicken just enough so that each breast has an even thickness.
  • Season and sear the chicken until golden on each side.
  • Sauté the bacon and onions.
  • Stir in the garlic, herbs and seasonings.
  • Stir in the tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Stir in the flour (or cornstarch slurry). Whisk in the broth and heavy cream, reduce the heat, and add the chicken back in.
  • Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Swap the flour. This can easily be swapped with corn starch if that’s what you have on hand. Just whisk it into an equal portion of liquid before stirring it in.
  • Use chicken thighs. If you choose to use thighs instead of breasts, just make sure they’re boneless and skinless.
  • No bacon? No problem. You can omit this ingredient entirely if you’d like. It adds an amazing flavor, but you don’t need to use it if you don’t want to. Or, swap it with turkey bacon!
  • Turn up the heat. I add just enough red pepper flakes to create flavor without making it spicy. Feel free to kick things up a notch by adding more red pepper flakes.

How to Store Marry Me Chicken

If you have any leftovers, you’re in luck! Marry me chicken keeps very well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container.

You can reheat your chicken with a splash of broth or water in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through. Try to be careful so you don’t scald the creamy sauce.

a blue dish with pasta and sauce being spooned on.

Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken?

Sure thing! Let the sauce and chicken all fully cool to room temperature prior to storing in an airtight, freezer safe container for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to date and label! Let the chicken slowly thaw in the fridge prior to reheating.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you notice that your sauce is on the thinner side, have no fear! You can always create a slurry (cornstarch and broth) and stir in a little bit at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

What to serve with Marry Me Chicken:

Serve marry me chicken over something hearty that’ll help you soak up every last drop of that delicious sun-dried tomato cream sauce! Buttered Noodles, Baked Rice, or mashed potatoes are all popular choices. I also like to lighten up my plate with a veggie side dish like air fryer broccoli.

a blue plate filled with pasta and topped with marry me chicken.

More chicken dinner recipes!

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Marry Me Chicken recipe

Marry Me Chicken features golden chicken breasts simmered in a medley of bold ingredients like bacon, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes and more! This one pan chicken recipe is served smothered in a creamy sauce that's so good, you may just hear wedding bells.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Diet Gluten Free
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 430cal

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 lb)
  • salt and pepper
  • 2 slices thick cut bacon (chopped)
  • ½ medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ¼ teaspoon thyme
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • parmesan and fresh parsley for serving (optional)

Instructions

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil.
  • Place chicken breasts on a large cutting board, cover with plastic wrap and flatten the thicker end slightly so they are an even width).
  • Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper and sear on both sides until light golden, about 3 minutes per side. Remove to a plate and keep warm.
  • Add bacon to the pan and cook until starting to brown, about 2-3 minutes. Add the onion and cook until translucent and starting to brown.
  • Stir in garlic, oregano, parsley, thyme, red pepper flakes and salt and cook 1 minute. Add sun dried tomatoes and tomato paste and cook 1 more minute.
  • Stir in the flour until absorbed. Whisk in broth and cream and reduce heat to medium.
  • Add the chicken back in, cover and cook until an internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F, about 10-12 minutes.
  • Serve over pasta, rice or mashed potatoes.

Video

Notes

Ingredients and Substitutions:
Chicken: feel free to swap the chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. 
Bacon and onion: you can omit one or both of these, but they add significant flavor to the base of our sauce. 
Herbs and seasonings: feel free to experiment with the herbs you have around the house, and swap in fresh herbs if they’re in season. Kick things up a notch by increasing the red chili flakes if that’s your style.
Flour: flour thickens our sauce. If you need a gluten-free alternative, you can whisk together one tablespoon of corn starch and one tablespoon of broth and stir that into the sauce.
Broth: I always choose low sodium broth. If you are using salted broth, you may want to reduce the added salt and season at the end before serving.
Heavy cream: heavy cream thickens and reduces nicely, adding richness to the sauce. If you use a lighter cream, you can expect a thinner sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 191grams | Calories: 430cal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 135mg | Sodium: 461mg | Potassium: 844mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 836IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 58mg | Iron: 2mg

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JUICY Air Fryer Chicken Breast https://www.thereciperebel.com/air-fryer-chicken-breast/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/air-fryer-chicken-breast/#comments Sat, 10 Feb 2024 06:31:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=20664 This Air Fryer Chicken Breast is perfectly seasoned and incredibly juicy! It is golden and crispy on the outside and…

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This Air Fryer Chicken Breast is perfectly seasoned and incredibly juicy! It is golden and crispy on the outside and SO flavorful!

New to the air fryer recipes? Check out my Best Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners or my 50 Best Air Fryer Recipes post!

overhead image of two air fryer chicken breasts in air fryer basket.

The Air Fryer has quickly become one of our favorite way to cook certain things, and chicken is definitely one of them.

Spoiler: this Air Fryer Chicken Breast is outstanding.

I started with a simple seasoning based on this Slow Cooker Chicken Breast and these Pan Fried Chicken Breasts — when you’ve got a good thing going, why change it?!

They turn out perfectly every time, and are almost completely hands off (other than a couple minutes prep!).

Love a crispy coating? You might want to try these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders or Air Fryer Fried Chicken!

I’m sharing all my tips and tricks below to make sure your air fryer chicken turns out just the way you want it!

Why we love to cook chicken breasts in the air fryer:

  • I mean, they’re perfect: they come out with the perfect combination of golden on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside!
  • Less babysitting: I don’t have to worry about them burning, or sticking, or overcooking like I do when I’m cooking them in a skillet.
  • You don’t have to heat up the oven: while I love my Baked Chicken Breasts, you do need to turn on the oven. In the summer time, why not air fry them instead? It’s more energy efficient and they cook up super quick!
  • They’re great for meal prep: whether you just want some cooked chicken for sandwiches, salads, or easy lunches, they’re easy enough that you can make a batch on the weekend and enjoy them over the next few days.

See what people are saying!

“Thank you for sharing this recipe. I used the seasonings you show in the recipe and it turned out great. It was golden brown on the outside and very juicy inside. Great flavor and a great recipe for one!!!” Marie

“This is the first air fryer recipe I have used. I was intimidated by 1) cooking and 2) using my new air fryer. This recipe came out perfect! My kids and hubby loved it. Thank you!” CM

Add your review

How long do I cook chicken breast in the air fryer?

Well, it depends!

It depends on your air fryer temperature and how thick your chicken breasts are.

I like to cook my chicken breasts for a shorter time at a higher temperature, so I opt for 400 degrees F for a cook time of 10-15 minutes.

uncooked chicken breasts in air fryer.

The exact cook time is hard to tell, and will depend on the size and shape of your chicken breast.

For better results, you can use a heavy rolling pin or flat meat mallet to flatten any thicker parts of your chicken breasts so that they cook more evenly — although I don’t usually go through this extra step.

And always be sure to check the internal temperature with an instant read thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F.

Is air fryer chicken healthy?

Air fryer Chicken Breasts aren’t really any healthier than chicken breasts that are cooked with the same ingredients on the stove top, in the oven, or in the slow cooker.

The air fryer is a healthier method than deep frying food, so this air fryer chicken breast is healthier than deep fried chicken, but that’s not really an equal comparison.

That being said, chicken breasts are still a lean protein option, and we love cooking them in the air fryer because they are the juiciest we’ve ever had! (Check out this photo taken right after I sliced them!)

two slices of juice air fryer chicken breast on white board.

Variations on this Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe:

  • Swap breasts for thighs: you can swap boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts in the recipe and you won’t need to change the recipe much — I would set your air fryer timer for 8 minutes and then check for doneness with a meat thermometer, as they are usually smaller than chicken breasts. (I also recommend checking out this Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe!)
  • Swap the seasoning: have a go-to seasoning blend of spices you love? It will work perfectly here! Think garlic herb, cajun, barbecue, taco, Greek — any dry blend can be substituted. Just sprinkle on both sides evenly before cooking.

How do you keep chicken breast from drying out in the Air Fryer?

That’s easy! Just be sure to cook it until it’s done, and not more than that.

Chicken breasts dry out when they are overcooked because they are so lean, so the best way to have juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts is to use a meat thermometer to watch the internal temperature (165 degrees F is what you’re looking for!).

plate with one whole chicken breast and one sliced chicken breast.

What to serve with this air fryer chicken breast:

This chicken breast is a versatile protein that goes with so many things!

Slice it to top a Caesar salad, stir it into your favorite pasta or Buttered Noodles, or serve with some of our favorite sides:

Leftover Air Fryer Chicken Breasts? Use it in these recipes!

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Air Fryer Chicken Breast

This Air Fryer Chicken Breast is perfectly seasoned and incredibly juicy! It is golden and crispy on the outside and SO flavorful!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 194cal

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  • Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees according to manufacturer's instructions if your air fryer requires preheating (I simply turn mine to 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes while I prepare the chicken)
  • Pat chicken dry and rub with canola oil.
  • In a small bowl, combine salt, parsley, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder and paprika. Sprinkle over both sides of the chicken.
  • Lightly spray the inside of the air fryer basket with non stick spray and place the chicken breasts in the bottom.
  • Place the basket inside the air fryer and set the cook time for 12 minutes (a couple minutes more or less depending on the size of your chicken breasts — keeping in mind you can always easily add more time but you can't take it away).
  • At the end of the cook time, check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165 degrees F. If it has not, return it to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
  • Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 194cal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 713mg | Potassium: 418mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 157IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 1mg

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Chicken Gnocchi Soup https://www.thereciperebel.com/chicken-gnocchi-soup/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/chicken-gnocchi-soup/#comments Fri, 09 Feb 2024 06:03:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=14729 This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is better than Olive Garden! Loaded with tender chicken, chunks of vegetables, and spinach in a…

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This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is better than Olive Garden! Loaded with tender chicken, chunks of vegetables, and spinach in a creamy, flavorful broth, it’s made in 30 minutes!

See the step by step recipe video down in the recipe card.

Looking for more chicken soup recipes? Try this Ramen Noodle Soup, this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup or this Chicken Dumpling Soup!

overhead image of pot of chicken gnocchi soup with wooden spoon

Everyone loves Olive Garden, right?

There is just something so comforting about rich, creamy pastas, fresh-from-the-oven breadsticks (although I think my Homemade Breadsticks are better!) and a cozy bowl of soup!

Now, I love them all: the Zuppa Toscana (see my Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana here), the Minestrone (see my Minestrone soup here), the Pasta e Fagioli — but a good chunky, creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup will always have my heart.

The thing is, the last couple times I’ve been there I’ve just been so disappointed in what Olive Garden is calling “Chicken Gnocchi Soup” these days — I feel like a more accurate name would be “Thin Creamy Broth with One Carrot, One Piece of Spinach and Two Gnocchi’.

It doesn’t have the same ring, does it?

close up image of wooden spoon stirring chicken gnocchi soup

Love gnocchi? You might also like this Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup, this Three Cheese Gnocchi Bake and this Baked Gnocchi with Sausage!

What is Gnocchi?

Gnocchi is a small, oval-shaped potato dumpling that is similar in texture to pasta (maybe a little softer).

Gnocchi is used in many pasta-type recipes, and pairs well in soups and with lots of different sauces due to its neutral flavor. It is comfort food to the max!

Why my Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe is better than Olive Garden:

Instead of the thin, disappointing Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, in this soup you’ll get plenty of:

  • flavor! All those veggies add a ton of it
  • tender shredded chicken — that cooks right in the soup, making it tender and lending more flavor to the broth! (If you’ve got some of this Crockpot Shredded Chicken or Instant Pot Shredded Chicken kicking around, feel free to use that instead!)
  • pillowy soft gnocchi
  • and enough creamy broth to soak up with some crusty No Knead Artisan Bread 😉

Reader Rating

“Amazing, literally the best soup I’ve ever made. So simple and easy!!” Whitney

“I’m not a great cook but get compliments every time with this one! It’s my go to comfort meal and so easy, now checking out other recipes too 🙂” Jen

Add your review

Chicken Gnocchi Soup Ingredients:

This easy chicken soup requires just a few ingredients and most you probably already have on hand! See my full list below.

chicken gnocchi soup ingredients.
  • Oil: ay neutral flavored oil with a high smoke point will work.
  • Onion, celery and carrot: this trio forms a classic mirepoix which is the base for many soup recipes, adding lots of flavor and nutrients!
  • Parsley, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper: simple seasonings that go a long way! For best flavor, mince your own garlic cloves before adding to the soup.
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: I use chicken breasts because that’s what we prefer, however boneless skinless chicken thighs also work perfectly! Instead of 2 breasts, use 4 thighs. If you have leftover Perfect Roast Chicken or Baked Chicken Breasts, this is a great time to use them!
  • Low sodium chicken broth: I prefer to add salt to our tastes rather than start with a salted broth. For that reason, I recommend tasting the soup before serving and adjusting the seasonings as you desire.
  • Heavy cream and corn starch: will give this Chicken Gnocchi Soup a rich and creamy texture without being overly thick.
  • Potato gnocchi: I use shelf-stable potato gnocchi found in the pasta aisle — feel free to experiment with different types of gnocchi!
  • Fresh spinach: fresh spinach adds color and nutrients! You can omit if needed, or swap in frozen spinach or kale instead.
  • Parmesan cheese: adds a bunch of salty, cheesy flavor!

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Absolutely! This is one of my favorite quick dinner hacks.

You can throw chicken breasts or boneless, skinless chicken thighs straight into this soup from the freezer.

Simmer about 15 minutes and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (165 degrees F is what we’re looking for!). Continue cooking if need be, then remove and shred as the recipe calls for.

How to make Chicken Gnocchi Soup:

This soup is so simple to make, and I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to make it even easier. Find the complete recipe in the recipe card below!

  1. Saute your onion, celery and carrots in a great big dutch oven or soup pot
  2. Add your spices and seasonings — cooking them first in the dry pot wakes up their flavor!
  3. Add your broth, raw chicken breasts or thighs (you read that right!), and other vegetables — I use a bag of matchstick carrots to make this even easier.
  4. Cook it until the chicken and vegetables are tender, then remove the chicken to shread and stir in some cream, gnocchi, spinach and a big sprinkling of Parmesan — let it cook just until the gnocchi is tender. Taste and serve!

How to make Crockpot Chicken and Gnocchi Soup:

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is also easy to make in the slow cooker if you need to plan ahead!

See my Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup recipe here for all the tips and tricks you need.

Recipe Tip

Got leftover Shredded Chicken? You can simply stir it in and leave out the chicken breasts in this recipe. You’ll want about 2 cups of shredded chicken.

Want to make a big batch of shredded chicken for easy dinners like this? Try my Instant Pot Shredded Chicken or my Crockpot Shredded Chicken!

overhead image of bowl of chicken gnocchi soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup storage:

One of the great things about this soup is it makes great leftovers! The flavor continues to develop as it sits so it’s perfect for making ahead.

In the refrigerator:

You can store this soup in the refrigerator up to 4 days in an airtight container.

In the freezer:

You can freeze this soup in freezer safe containers (I prefer to freeze mine in large freezer bags, frozen flat, so that it thaws quickly!), leaving an inch or two of space in the container at the top.

Freeze up to 3 months.

To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or in a pot on the stovetop on low.

overhead image of bowl of chicken gnocchi soup with spoon

Serving Suggestions:

While I don’t actually need to serve anything alongside this Chicken Gnocchi Soup, I sure do love to have some Homemade Dinner Rolls or a piece of Garlic Bread for dunking (bonus points if it’s Cheesy Garlic Bread!).

More hearty soup recipes you’ll love!

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Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is better than Olive Garden! Loaded with tender chicken, chunks of vegetables, spinach in a creamy, flavorful broth – don't forget the crusty bread!
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 444.68cal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • ½ medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 ribs celery finely chopped
  • 1 cup carrot matchsticks (or finely chopped carrots)
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch
  • 3 cups small gnocchi (500g)
  • 1 ½ cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • In a large dutch oven or soup pot, add oil and cook onion, celery and carrots over medium-high heat until slightly softened.
  • Add parsley, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper and stir.
  • Add broth and chicken breasts and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium low, cover, and simmer until vegetables are tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, about 12-15 minutes.
  • Remove chicken breasts to a cutting board to shred. Whisk together cream and corn starch and stir into the soup with the gnocchi. Let simmer for 4-5 minutes until gnocchi is tender and soup is slightly thickened.
  • Stir in shredded chicken, spinach and Parmesan. Adjust seasonings to taste. Serve.

Video

Notes

Ingredients and Substitutions:
Chicken Breasts: I use chicken breasts because that’s what we prefer, however boneless skinless chicken thighs also work perfectly! Instead of 2 breasts, use 4 thighs. If you have leftover Roast Chicken, Baked Chicken Breasts, or Shredded Chicken, this is a great time to use them!
Low sodium chicken broth: I prefer to add salt to our tastes rather than start with a salted broth. For that reason, I recommend tasting the soup before serving and adjusting the seasonings as you desire.
Vegetables: I start most soups with a classic mirepoix (carrots, celery and onion) and I would try not to stray from that, but feel free to add in additional vegetables that you need to get out of the fridge!

Nutrition

Serving: 310grams | Calories: 444.68cal | Carbohydrates: 50.02g | Protein: 18.69g | Fat: 19.83g | Saturated Fat: 8.9g | Cholesterol: 68.53mg | Sodium: 792.79mg | Potassium: 455.15mg | Fiber: 3.86g | Sugar: 1.96g | Vitamin A: 4811.76IU | Vitamin C: 5.35mg | Calcium: 119.29mg | Iron: 5.14mg

Tried this recipe?

Tag @thereciperebel or hashtag #thereciperebel —
I love to see what you’re making!

Tag @thereciperebel

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Easy Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipes https://www.thereciperebel.com/crockpot-chicken-breast-recipes/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/crockpot-chicken-breast-recipes/#comments Thu, 01 Feb 2024 06:22:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=28015 These Easy Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipes are perfect for starting in the morning so you can come home to a…

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These Easy Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipes are perfect for starting in the morning so you can come home to a delicious hands-free meal! Slow cooker chicken recipes made with simple ingredients and full of flavor.

long collage for crockpot chicken breast recipes including nine images and title.

If you’ve been around here for more than 5 minutes, you know how much we love Crockpot Chicken Recipes!

These easy crockpot chicken breast recipes combine one of my favorite cooking techniques with one of our favorite proteins, in plenty of original and flavorful ways!

Chicken breasts are the perfect neutral starting point for so many different herbs, spices and sauces, and they pair perfectly with loads of other vegetables and grains.

This list of slow cooker chicken breast recipes is my ultimate guide to easy weeknight meals made easier with the crockpot!

I’ve included loads of bonus tips down below all these recipes, including how to prep many of these recipes ahead to make dinnertime even easier and some of the most frequently asked questions.

But first, let’s get dinner started!

square image of slow cooker pulled chicken with two forks.
Crockpot Shredded Chicken
This Crockpot Shredded Chicken is easy, flavorful and a great way to meal prep for the week ahead! How to make slow cooker shredded chicken including tips, tricks and additional recipes.
Check out this recipe
close up of creamy garlic chicken in white slow cooker.
Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken
Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken features golden pan seared chicken breasts that get slow cooked to perfection in a garlicky cream sauce. It's an easy recipe that's great for those busier weeknights at home!
Check out this recipe
square image of tomato basil slow cooker chicken in white crockpot.
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is SO easy and flavorful, you wouldn't believe it only has a few ingredients! The perfect easy dinner recipe!
Check out this recipe
overhead image of four salsa chicken breasts in slow cooker with mozzarella and parsley
Crockpot Salsa Chicken
This Crockpot Salsa Chicken is the best throw-and-go recipe. It's made with six simple ingredients and takes just 5 minutes to prep. Serve this chicken in tacos or burrito bowls, over nachos, in fajitas, you name it!
Check out this recipe
overhead image of four chicken breasts in white slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
This Slow Cooker Chicken Breast recipe comes out perfectly juicy and seasoned every time! Learn my tips for getting the best crockpot chicken breast, perfect for salads, sandwiches or an easy dinner.
Check out this recipe
overhead image of crockpot tuscan chicken in white slow cooker
Crockpot Tuscan Chicken
This Crockpot Tuscan Chicken is made up juicy chicken breasts slow cooked in a rich and cheesy cream sauce. This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and makes the perfect dinner served over your favorite pasta!
Check out this recipe
square image of crockpot chicken and potatoes with sun dried tomato sauce
Sun Dried Tomato Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
This Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is slow cooked in a broth flavored with sun dried tomatoes and Italian herbs. It's an easy crockpot meal that requires only 10 minutes prep!
Check out this recipe
close up of a bowl of chicken taco soup with tortilla strips and avocado on top.
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Taco Soup
This Crockpot Chicken Taco Soup is made with just SIX ingredients in the slow cooker! With 5 minutes prep, it's an easy healthy dinner idea for busy weeknights.
Check out this recipe
square image of crockpot bbq chicken with tongs
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
This easy Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is made with store bought barbecue sauce and a couple secret ingredients! Make it with chicken breasts or thighs.
Check out this recipe
square image of crockpot chicken and dumplings in slow cooker
Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a slow cooker version of a classic comfort food! Tender chicken, loads of veggies, and fluffy homemade dumplings are simmered in a thick and flavorful gravy.
Check out this recipe
crockpot pineapple chicken breasts in slow cooker overhead
Crockpot Pineapple Chicken
This Crockpot Pineapple Chicken is sweet and tangy and made with just SIX ingredients! You can prep ahead and freeze before cooking.
Check out this recipe
close up view of a ladle full of crockpot chicken stew above crockpot.
Crockpot Chicken Stew
Hearty, healthy, and totally comforting, this easy Crockpot Chicken Stew is the answer you've been looking for to heat up on those chilly nights!
Check out this recipe
crockpot chicken and noodles in slow cooker
Crockpot Chicken and Noodles
This Crockpot Chicken and Noodles recipe is an easy crockpot chicken recipe that will please the whole family! So easy and so creamy (but NO cream of chicken soups!). 
Check out this recipe
crockpot orange chicken with rice
Crockpot Orange Chicken
This Crockpot Orange Chicken is a healthier, homemade version of one of our favorite takeout meals! It has the most flavorful sauce!
Check out this recipe
slow cooker with garlic parmesan chicken stew in it and a metal ladle
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew
This Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken Stew is bound to be your new favorite winter comfort food! It’s hearty, creamy, cheesy and loaded with vegetables! The crockpot makes it an easy weeknight meal.
Check out this recipe
italian crockpot chicken and potatoes on plate
Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes
This Creamy Italian Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes is simmered in the most incredible creamy sauce of roasted red peppers, spinach and Italian herbs. It’s a dump and go meal in one! 
Check out this recipe
slow cooker sweet and sour chicken on blue plate
Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Chicken
{Slow Cooker} Sweet and Sour Chicken: the perfect crockpot meal to come home to after a long day! Great served over rice or noodles.
Check out this recipe
close up image of chicken gnocchi soup in bowl with spoon.
Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup
This Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup is thick and creamy! Made with tender chicken breasts, vegetables, gnocchi, spinach and Parmesan in a rich and flavorful broth. Perfect with some crusty bread!
Check out this recipe
close up image of crockpot lemon chicken in slow cooker
Slow Cooker Honey Lemon Chicken Recipe + VIDEO
This Slow Cooker Honey Lemon Chicken is a little sweet, a little tangy and perfect over rice or noodles! It’s an easy crockpot meal for those busy days! Includes step by step recipe video.
Check out this recipe
close up image of white bowl with italian chicken noodle soup and spoon.
Creamy Italian Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup
This Creamy Italian Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is hearty, healthy, and flavorful. It's packed with tender chicken, garlic, roasted red pepper, a touch of cream, parmesan, and more.
Check out this recipe
slow cooker chicken fajitas in crockpot
Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas
These easy Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas are made with chicken breasts, peppers, onions, salsa and a homemade fajita seasoning that makes them over the top delicious! An easy slow cooker dinner idea. 
Check out this recipe

close up of spoon and bowl of chicken noodle soup.
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
This easy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is one of my favorite things to warm up with on a cold winter day! With juicy chicken, vegetables, and an aromatic mix of seasonings, it's a family favorite!
Check out this recipe
crockpot chicken and gravy in black slow cooker
Crock Pot Chicken & Gravy
Crockpot Chicken and Gravy with the BEST luxurious silky, rich and creamy gravy (without any mystery condensed soup!). Make Ahead & Freezer Friendly!
Check out this recipe
crockpot honey bourbon chicken persnickety plates.
Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken
If you love bourbon chicken from the food court at the mall, you’ll love this version of Crock Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken
Check out this recipe
slow cooker italian chicken and peppers budget bytes.
Slow Cooker Italian Chicken and Peppers
Slow Cooker Italian Chicken and Peppers is an easy dish that can be used multiple ways. Cook up a batch and use it throughout the week!
Check out this recipe

What’s the Difference Between a Crock Pot and a Slow Cooker?

Depending on who you ask, “crock pot” and “slow cooker” are interchangeable terms. Both make use of moist heat to cook food over longer periods of time. However, Crock-Pot® is actually a brand name, as well as a specific style of slow cooker!

So, yes, a crock pot is a kind of slow cooker. But not every slow cooker is a crock pot. The key differences are in the design:

  • A crock pot is designed with a stoneware pot or “crock” that’s surrounded by a heating element. These generally come with two settings, low and high.
  • A slow cooker is a similar appliance that has a pot that sits on top of a heating element. Slow cookers tend to have multiple settings, compared to only two.

Whether you’re the proud owner of a crock pot or another type of slow cooker, both operate similarly and are perfect for these slow cooker chicken breast recipes!

Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipes Are Great for Meal Prep! 

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the endless possibilities of a crock pot. These crock pot chicken recipes are everything I look for when it comes to delicious dinner ideas that you can make ahead. Here are some ways you can maximize your weekly meal prep with these slow cooker chicken recipes:

  • Organize the ingredients ahead of time. Zip-top bags are perfect for this! Organize the ingredients you need over a weekend, and have dinners ready to go for the week. Where the recipe permits, you can even combine the ingredients in bags ahead of time and then empty the contents into the crock pot to cook.
  • Cook, store, and freeze. Most crock pot chicken recipes are excellent for leftovers and freezing. If you’ve cooked up a big batch of something delicious, portion it into individual servings to store and freeze for easy grab-and-reheat meals all week long.
  • Take advantage of the extra time. Crock pots are an excellent way to save time, with a hot meal ready and waiting at the end of the day. Nothing beats coming home to a house that smells amazing and a cozy chicken dinner that cooks itself. Enjoy the extra moments spent with family and friends!
four image collage of slow cooker chicken breast recipes.

Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipe FAQs

Is it safe to leave the crock pot on when I’m not home?

Slow cookers were designed to be left on while you’re out! It’s perfectly safe to switch on your crock pot in the morning and leave for the day, comparable to leaving a light bulb on.

Can I cook frozen chicken in the crock pot?

It’s a major no-no to cook frozen meat in the crock pot. Frozen meat (especially chicken) thawed in the slow cooker can stay at unsafe temperatures for extended lengths of time. This, combined with the moist heat, makes it a breeding ground for bacteria and food-borne illnesses! So always, always thaw the chicken ahead of cooking it.

Is it better to cook chicken on high or low in the crockpot?

For best results, boneless and skinless chicken in the crock pot should be cooked on low. Cuts like chicken breasts, when cooked on high, can dry out even if you check them early on. So for consistent results, I’d recommend that most recipes be cooked low and slow.

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30+ Shredded Chicken Recipes for easy weeknight dinners https://www.thereciperebel.com/shredded-chicken-recipes/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/shredded-chicken-recipes/#comments Tue, 30 Jan 2024 06:42:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=13414 These Shredded Chicken Recipes are easy dinner ideas that are perfect for meal prep because they all start with easy…

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These Shredded Chicken Recipes are easy dinner ideas that are perfect for meal prep because they all start with easy shredded chicken (Instant Pot and Crockpot recipes included).

Looking for more easy meal inspiration? Check out my collection of Dinner Recipes or my collection of Chicken Recipes here!

pinterest collage of shredded chicken recipes with nine images and text.

I’ll admit, when I was young, newly married, and childless, I hated leftovers.

Cooking was something I loved, and if I made a huge batch of something and was then forced to eat it for days on end? Not something I looked forward to!

But as life gets busier, the more I value having something prepped and ready in the fridge.

That’s where these Shredded Chicken Recipes come in.

Why shredded chicken is the perfect meal prep:

Shredded Chicken is such a great thing to have prepped ahead because of how versatile (and delicious!) it is!

It really goes with anything, and you can add more or less seasoning or other sauces depending on what you want to do with it.

It’s lean, it’s healthy and high in protein — basically, it checks all of my boxes!

I’ve included two different ways to make chicken for these shredded chicken recipes — in the Crockpot and in the Instant Pot. These are my favorite ways to make tender, juicy shredded chicken without babysitting it on the stove.

From there, the options are endless!

How to make Shredded Chicken (3 ways):

If you’re looking to make a big batch of cooked chicken for these pulled chicken recipes, here are 3 of my favorite ways to do it.

  1. Try this stovetop Shredded Chicken Recipe when you need it quickly and your chicken is thawed and ready to cook.
  2. Try this Crockpot Shredded Chicken recipe when you’ve got a few hours to let it cook and you want something hands off.
  3. Try this Instant Pot Shredded Chicken recipe if you’ve got an instant pot, have fresh or frozen chicken, and want something quick and hands off.

Shredded Chicken Recipes Tip

Many of these recipes call for uncooked chicken — but using cooked, shredded chicken will cut the prep and cook time down considerably and is a simple swap.

Since the chicken doesn’t require any cooking, you can simply stir it in to soups and pastas in the last few minutes of cook time to reheat.

See more of my shredded chicken recipe tips down below! Now here are some of our favorite ways to use that pulled chicken to make dinner time easier.

The Best Easy Shredded Chicken Recipes

Tap the heading or the image to go to each recipe.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

overhead image of chicken bacon ranch pasta in grey bowl

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is made with penne pasta, crispy bacon, and juicy chicken pieces tossed in a flavorful ranch cream sauce. It’s ready in 40 minutes!

Chicken Rice Soup

close up image of scoop of chicken and rice soup.

This Chicken Rice Soup is a hearty, healthy soup recipe that’s perfect for fall! Loaded with vegetables, lean chicken and brown rice it can be made stove top or slow cooker.

Chicken Tortellini Soup

close up image of chicken tortellini soup in beige bowl

This Chicken Tortellini Soup is loaded with vegetables, tender shredded chicken and cheese tortellini! Easily made stove top or crockpot, with fresh or frozen chicken!

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

overhead image of chicken and dumplings in crockpot after cooking

This Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a slow cooker version of a classic comfort food! Tender chicken, loads of veggies, and fluffy homemade dumplings are simmered in a thick and flavorful gravy.

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

close up overhead image of chicken broccoli alfredo in blue bowl with fork

This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is the perfect easy pasta dinner! Tender Cavatappi pasta and cooked broccoli are tossed in a rich and cheesy cream sauce, then topped with juicy slices of chicken.

Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake

large white baking dish filled with tuscan chicken pasta bake and steel ladle.

This Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake is cheesy, creamy, and so flavorful! Penne pasta is baked in the best homemade sauce and made hearty with bites of chicken spread throughout. Perfect for those crazy weeknights when you need something comforting and easy!

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

bowl of chicken pot pie soup with spoon and biscuit on the side.

This Chicken Pot Pie Soup is thick and creamy, loaded with vegetables and tender pieces of chicken! It is made in one pot and topped with biscuits or pastry, making it the perfect cold weather comfort food. 

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

close up shot of a steel ladle filled with lemon chicken orzo soup above pot.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is made with chicken broth, savory vegetables, tender chicken, Orzo pasta, herbs and fresh lemon for a zesty kick! It’s a healthy soup recipe that is comforting and flavorful!

White Chicken Chili

overhead image of white chicken chili with metal ladle scooping.

This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a completely made-from-scratch comfort food classic! It’s packed with veggies and tender bites of chicken then layered with a fluffy homemade biscuit topping.

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

ladle scooping chicken pot pie casserole with biscuits

This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a completely made-from-scratch comfort food classic! It’s packed with veggies and tender bites of chicken then layered with a fluffy homemade biscuit topping.

One Pot BBQ Chicken Pasta

wooden spatula scooping bbq chicken pasta out of white dutch oven.

This One Pot BBQ Chicken Pasta is full of smoky and savory flavors, with tender chicken breast, crispy bacon, and your favorite BBQ sauce – it’s an easy one-pan meal the whole family will love!

Chicken Dumpling Soup

black pot filled with chicken dumpling soup.

This Chicken Dumpling Soup recipe is made with sautéed vegetables, creamy potatoes, and tender chicken in a rich and flavorful broth. Homemade dumplings are simmered on top for the ultimate comfort food!

One Pan Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

overhead image of pan of chicken fettuccine alfredo

This Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is made in ONE pot with just SIX ingredients and in 30 minutes! It really doesn’t get easier or more flavorful than this. 

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

close up image of wooden spoon stirring chicken gnocchi soup

This Chicken Gnocchi Soup is better than Olive Garden! Loaded with tender chicken, chunks of vegetables, and spinach in a creamy, flavorful broth, it’s made in 30 minutes!

Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

overhead image of chicken alfredo bake with spoon stuck in.

This Chicken Alfredo Bake is an easy meal-prep and freezer friendly dinner option! Tender pasta and chicken are tossed in homemade Alfredo sauce, topped with cheese, then baked until hot and gooey.

Instant Pot White Chicken Chili

a ladle full of instant pot chicken chilli above instant pot.

This Instant Pot White Chicken Chili is creamy and hearty with just the right amount of spice! Loaded with lean chicken, white beans, green chiles, and corn, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Chicken Bacon Rice Soup

overhead image of chicken rice soup in a bowl with a spoon.

This Chicken Bacon Rice Soup is easy to make and comes together in just 25 minutes using only one pot! It’s thick and creamy and full of flavor!

Chicken Noodle Casserole

close up image of wooden spoon stuck in chicken noodle casserole.

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is classic comfort food ready with just 15 minutes of prep! Tender egg noodles, veggies, and juicy bites of chicken baked in a rich cream sauce.

Creamy Italian Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup

close up image of white bowl with italian chicken noodle soup and spoon.

This Creamy Italian Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup is hearty, healthy, and flavorful. It’s packed with tender chicken, garlic, roasted red pepper, a touch of cream, parmesan, and more.

Crockpot Chicken Taco Soup

overhead view of a white bowl filled with chicken taco soup with garnishes beside.

Crockpot Chicken Taco Soup is a comforting soup that’s easy to make with just six bold ingredients! With tender chicken, beans and corn in a flavorful broth, this slow cooker soup is sure to be a hit!

Italian Chicken Tortellini

large black skillet of italian tortellini with wooden spoon stuck in.

This Italian Chicken Tortellini is an easy meal made in just one pot! It’s loaded with cheese tortellini, roasted red peppers, spinach, tomatoes, herbs, and cheese!

One Pan Chicken Chow Mein

overhead image of chicken chow mein in large white skillet

This One Pot Chicken Chow Mein is a fast and healthy dinner the whole family will love! Loaded with juicy chicken, bell peppers, cabbage, peas and carrots, it’s ready in about 30 minutes!

Chicken Spaghetti

close up image of spaghetti twirled around tongs in pan.

This Chicken Spaghetti is the perfect quick, easy, family-friendly dinner! It has spaghetti noodles, tender bites of chicken, and veggies all smothered in a chili-spiced cheddar cheese cream sauce.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

close up image of chicken caesar pasta salad in a bowl.

This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is made with seasoned chicken breast, rotini pasta, Caesar dressing, Parmesan and garlic bread croutons. It’s a light but still hearty summer meal, perfect for picnics!

Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup

white crockpot full of chicken noodle soup with steel ladle scooping soup.

This easy Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup recipe is one of my favorite meals to warm up with on a cold winter day! With juicy chicken, vegetables, and an aromatic mix of seasonings, it’s a family favorite!

Chicken Enchiladas

a white baking dish of enchiladas with a spatula.

This Easy Chicken Enchiladas recipe is one we’ve used time and time again to make the BEST chicken enchiladas. Made with tender chicken cooked in enchilada sauce with onions and peppers, corn or flour tortillas and plenty of cheese.

Chicken Quesadilla

Slices of quesadilla stacked on plate with a bowl of sour cream and salsa beside it.

This Chicken Quesadilla is an easy dinner idea! Tortillas layered with juicy bites of chicken, melty cheese, and veggies — kids and adults love them!

White Lasagna Soup

overhead image of white lasagna soup in large dutch oven

This White Lasagna Soup is your favorite pasta bake in soup form! It’s rich, creamy, and packed with tender chicken, veggies, and cheese!

Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Top view of chicken enchilada casserole in a large white dish.

This delicious Chicken Enchilada Casserole is made by layering juicy shredded chicken, homemade red enchilada sauce, corn tortillas, and loads of melty cheese!

How to shred chicken:

I guess I’m a little old school this way, but I prefer to just use two forks and pull it apart.

There are lots of people who use a hand mixer or stand mixer, and just get in there and it’s shredded in a minute or less, but I find the chicken turns to mush and is super fine.

I like to shred my chicken with forks because I can make the chunks as big or small as I want, and keep some of the texture of the chicken (so you can see it actually is chicken!).

You do you 😉

And now what to do with all of that delicious chicken! Here’s your dinner inspiration for the week ahead:

How to store shredded chicken:

Cooked, shredded chicken can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or in the freezer for 3-6 months.

This makes it a great dinner component to make ahead for busy days!

How to swap shredded chicken for uncooked chicken in recipes:

Some of these recipes call for cooked cubed or shredded chicken, and some call for raw chicken.

Swapping pre-cooked shredded chicken for the raw chicken in any of these recipes is a great way to cut down on prep and cook time and make life easier!

Since the chicken doesn’t require any cooking, you can simply stir it in to soups and pastas in the last few minutes of cook time to reheat.

For casseroles, you will want to add in the chicken before it goes into the oven.

square collage of four shredded chicken recipes images.

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Easy Bisquick Dumplings https://www.thereciperebel.com/easy-bisquick-dumplings/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/easy-bisquick-dumplings/#respond Thu, 25 Jan 2024 06:31:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=25711 These Bisquick Dumplings are so easy to make and you can simmer them on homemade chicken stew or any soup…

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These Bisquick Dumplings are so easy to make and you can simmer them on homemade chicken stew or any soup recipe! Made with Bisquick, milk and Italian seasoning, they are simple and flavorful.

Love dumplings? Try these Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings or this Chicken Dumpling Soup recipe!

metal spoon scooping dumpling out of stew

Bisquick Dumplings are an awesome hack for adding a little something special to your favorite soup or stew — they’re easy to make and make dinnertime extra hearty!

Around here, we cook from scratch, using whole foods and our most trusted store-bought ingredients, most of the time.

But there are times when you need a quick and easy dinner idea, and these easy soup dumplings is definitely that.

If you’re looking for a quick, homemade dumplings recipe for your soup or stew, check out this Drop Dumplings for Soup recipe — they require just 5-10 minutes prep!

Bisquick Dumplings Ingredients:

ingredients needed for bisquick dumplings

This dumplings recipe requires just three ingredients:

  • Bisquick
  • Milk
  • Italian seasoning

Now, the Italian seasoning obviously isn’t necessary but I like to add a flavorful pop to my Bisquick dumplings.

If you need to, you can substitute a non-dairy milk or water for the milk, or even chicken broth for extra flavor!

I’ve added lots of other flavorful mix ins down below!

What can I add to make these soup dumplings extra special?

Now that we’ve got the basics down, here are some fun ways to jazz up that box of Bisquick!

  • ½ to 1 cup shredded cheese
  • freshly chipped chives, parsley, basil or dill
  • 1/4-½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder or 1 teaspoon of dried onion flakes
  • swap the milk for buttermilk for a tangy, more tender dumplings

How to make Bisquick Dumplings:

Dumplings — whether the homemade version in this Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings or these Bisquick dumplings — are easy to make!

  1. Combine Bisquick (or other dry ingredients), milk and Italian seasoning.
  2. Stir until combined but don’t overmix — you want just all of the Bisquick to be absorbed, but no more or you’ll make them tough.
  3. Spoon onto a simmering soup or stew, cover with a lid and cook for 10-15 minutes or until puffed and light golden brown on top. No need to stir!

How do I cook Bisquick dumplings?

One of the best things about dumplings is they add something special to so many different meals — soups, stews, chilis, pot pies, you name it. Almost any of these soup recipes will work just fine as a base.

Spoon by heaping tablespoonfuls onto a pot of simmering pot of saucy deliciousness, cover with a lid, and let cook until golden brown.

Here are a few of our favorite ways:

metal spoon scooping dumpling out of stew

Tips for making the best dumplings:

  • Make sure your soup or stew has a good amount of liquid. Don’t push the dumplings into the soup but make sure to add a bit of extra liquid before adding your dumplings if necessary.
  • Since Bisquick has baking soda in it, an acidic ingredient will react with it to make them rise. This is why buttermilk is a great swap for regular milk!
  • If you want a golden crust on your dumplings, your best bet is to bake or broil them. For even more browning action, you can add 1 tablespoon of oil to the dumpling dough before scooping onto the soup.
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Easy Bisquick Dumplings

These Bisquick Dumplings are so easy to make and you can simmer them on homemade chicken stew or any soup recipe! Made with Bisquick, milk and Italian seasoning, they are simple and flavorful.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 137cal

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cup BIsquick baking mix (fluffed and levelled in the cup, not packed)
  • ½ cup milk (or sub buttermilk)
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, stir together Bisquick, milk and Italian seasoning just until combined — don't overmix or they will be tough! The dough should be thick and stretchy (see photos). Add more milk or more Bisquick as needed.
    milk being poured into bisquick to make dumplings
  • Drop by heaping tablespoons onto simmering soup or stew. Do not stir.
    using a spoon and a spatula to make dumplings on top of stew
  • Cover and reduce heat to medium. Cook 10 minutes.
    overhead image of pot with dumplings puffed after the lid was removed
  • Uncover and cook 5-10 minutes until puffed and light golden brown.
    overhead image of large pot with soup and bisquick dumplings

Nutrition

Calories: 137cal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 391mg | Potassium: 81mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 43IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 81mg | Iron: 1mg

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Crockpot Shredded Chicken (Slow Cooker) https://www.thereciperebel.com/crockpot-shredded-chicken/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/crockpot-shredded-chicken/#comments Thu, 25 Jan 2024 06:27:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=12271 This Crockpot Shredded Chicken is easy, flavorful and a great way to meal prep for the week ahead! How to…

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This Crockpot Shredded Chicken is easy, flavorful and a great way to meal prep for the week ahead! How to make slow cooker shredded chicken including tips, tricks and additional recipes.

Looking for more ways to cook shredded chicken? Try this Instant Pot Shredded Chicken, this stovetop Shredded Chicken or see my 30+ Shredded Chicken Recipes for more inspiration!

two whole chicken breasts and two shredded chicken breasts with forks in slow cooker.

It was high time for this Crockpot Shredded Chicken to join my family of easy meal prep recipes. It’s one of my favorite recipes when we’re short on time!

I’ve realized how important it is to have a collection or super practical, easy recipes for kitchen basics that will make your life a hundred times easier through the week.

As moms and dads and adults who have a million things on our plates, recipes like this Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken, this easy Baked Chicken Breast, these Dump and Go Slow Cooker Recipes and these Easy Crockpot Meals are the best way to get dinner on the table.

Reader Rating

“I made this today I am so amazed by it. So tasty and easy. I will make probably every week now. I’m so impressed.” Sue

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Why we love this Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken:

  • It’s versatile: Having this crockpot shredded chicken prepped is a lifesaver and is so easy to stir into soups, pasta, make quick sandwiches or, hey, even add to a boxed pasta mix when times are really crazy! 😉
  • It’s great for making ahead: Easy meal prep makes these busy days much more manageable!
  • It’s customizable: you can easily use your favorite seasonings blends or spices to jazz it up! Try taco seasoning, Creole, Cajun, or something else!

Ingredients needed:

ingredients needed for crockpot shredded chicken.
  • Chicken breasts: I prefer to use boneless skinless chicken breasts but you could also use boneless skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. If you would like to use bone-in chicken, you’ll want to add a couple hours to the cook time.
  • Chicken broth: I always choose low sodium chicken broth so that I can add salt according to our tastes. If you are using a salted broth, you may want to reduce the amount of seasoning salt added.
  • Seasoning salt: seasoning salt is one of my favorite all-purpose seasonings — it packs a lot of flavor in one bottle! If you don’t have any, you can add salt, paprika, garlic powder and onion powder.
  • Italian seasoning: I love the herby flavor of Italian seasoning and I think it goes well with most flavors. Feel free to reduce or omit according to your tastes and your uses.
  • Black pepper: adds a bit of heat to balance out the flavors.

How to make Crockpot Shredded Chicken:

Here are a few step by step photos to guide you! See the full recipe down in the recipe card.

  1. Add chicken to the bottom of the crockpot (I use my 2.5 quart when I am making 4-6 chicken breasts, and my 4 or 6 quart slow cooker when making more than that).
  2. Add broth and seasonings and give everything a stir.
  3. Cover and cook on low until tender and cooked through (roughly 3-4 hours) — it may be cooked before it is fall apart tender, so don’t be afraid to let it cook for a couple extra hours on low so that it shreds easily.
  4. Open lid and shred in the juices, or shred on a cutting board and add back to the juices after shredding.

Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken FAQs

What size crockpot do I need?

The crockpot pictured here is a 2.5 quart casserole crock — it’s one of my favorites! It’s a great size for a family of 3-5. It works great for 4-6 chicken breasts.
If you’re looking to do a big batch, I recommend a 4-6 quart slow cooker.

Can I let it cook all day?

The answer is yes, but you might not want to. Overcooked chicken tends to be dry and unappetizing. The slow cooker is a forgiving environment but even so, 8 hours or more is a long time for chicken to cook.
If you want to let your chicken cook longer than the recipe calls for, I recommend choosing a smaller crockpot and filling it to the 2/3 point. A fuller crockpot will cook more slowly.

Why is my Crockpot Shredded Chicken tough?

It’s likely that it hasn’t cooked long enough to shred. While chicken breasts are often cooked through in just 2 hours on low, I like to let them cook a little longer if I plan to shred them so that they are fall-apart tender.

How do I keep chicken from drying out in the slow cooker?

Don’t overcook! It’s important to hit that sweet spot between “tough and hard to shred” and “dry and overcooked”. Thankfully, the crockpot is one of the best ways to get juicy chicken.

Is it better to cook chicken in the crockpot on low or high?

I think it is always better to cook on low if you can, but cooking on high is an option if you are pressed for time.

Do I need to cover the chicken with liquid?

No! The liquid in the crockpot creates steam that will cook the chicken and keep it moist even if it is not covered in liquid.

Can I freeze leftover shredded chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken can be frozen in an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag for up to 6 months.

crockpot pulled chicken with two forks.

Tips for making this easy Crockpot Shredded Chicken:

  • Don’t overcook. I know it can be tempting to leave the chicken in for a long time as you would think it would end up more tender, but that’s not always the case. With slow cooker chicken recipes, you really want to be sure you hit the sweet spot between “just enough” and “dry and unappetizing”.
  • Use boneless chicken breasts or boneless chicken thighs. Avoid having to deal with skin and bones to make this crockpot shredded chicken recipe super simple. Chicken thighs will have a little more fat (flavor!) and more moisture. Chicken breasts are leaner, but also don’t pack quite the same amount of flavor as thighs. You can use one or the other or a combination! I use chicken breasts because they always turn out incredibly moist and it’s easy to add flavor 🙂
  • Know your slow cooker. When cooking 4 chicken breasts like this recipe calls for, I love using my 2.5 quart crockpot — it’s the perfect size and heats up quickly. If you’re doing more chicken than that, you’ll likely want to use a 4-6 quart crockpot. Note that if your crockpot is very full, it will take longer to heat and cook. The size affects the cooking time!
  • Keep the seasoning simple. You don’t want to end up with a week’s worth of single-purpose chicken (unless you do, I guess!), so by keeping the seasoning on this slow cooker shredded chicken basic, you can use it in a multitude of ways. It doesn’t scream “Mexican!” or “Italian!” or “curry!”.

How to shred chicken:

I know a lot of people like to make easy shredded chicken with a hand mixer or stand mixer because it shreds quickly and easily.

This is a great way to do it, but honestly? I prefer a couple of forks.

It really doesn’t take that long, and I’m all about using the least amount of dishes as possible. I really dislike washing big pots and bowls so I avoid using extra at all costs! You pick the easiest way for you.

After simmering away low and slow, this slow cooker shredded chicken comes together (or rather, apart! Lol) with little effort. No need to pull out the big guns 😉

shredded chicken in juices in crockpot with two forks.

Ways to use Shredded Chicken:

So now that we have all of this wonderful, flavorful, moist slow cooker shredded chicken, the real question is what to make with shredded chicken?

I love having a bunch on hand in the fridge because it is so versatile and makes meal planning so much easier to manage.

Here are some easy things to make with shredded chicken:

Variations on this Crockpot Pulled Chicken:

This is an easy recipe to customize! Try one of these delicious recipes to make it your own:

  • Skip the Italian seasoning and add 2-3 teaspoons taco seasoning and some mild salsa for shredded chicken tacos or taco salad! (Go crazy and add a can of green chiles if you like!)
  • Stir in some barbecue sauce and make BBQ Chicken sandwiches
  • Stir in some buffalo sauce and serve it over Air Fryer Baked Potatoes or with nachos
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Crockpot Shredded Chicken

This Crockpot Shredded Chicken is easy, flavorful and a great way to meal prep for the week ahead! How to make slow cooker shredded chicken including tips, tricks and additional recipes.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Diet Gluten Free
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 67cal

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lb)
  • ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (I use Lawry’s)
  • ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Place chicken breasts in 2.5-4 quart crockpot. Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle with seasonings.
  • Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until chicken is cooked through (165 degrees F minimum) and fall apart tender.
  • Using two forks, gently pull and shred the chicken in the liquid (if your chicken has released a lot of liquid, you may want to remove some liquid before shredding, but save it in case you want to add more back in). 
  • Serve as desired or let cool slightly before refrigerating. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator, tightly sealed, for 3-4 days, or packaged and frozen for 3-4 months.

Notes

*The cook time in this recipe has been adjusted to 3-4 hours on low from the previous 6-7. I find that a lower cook time is sufficient when using 4 chicken breasts in a smaller crockpot. If you have a larger crockpot, it is very full, or you have large chicken breasts, you may still need to cook for 4-6 hours on low. 
Ingredients and Substitutions:
  • I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts or boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. You may be able to use bone-in chicken but it will take longer to cook.
  • If you are using regular broth and not low sodium, you may want to reduce the added salt. 
Storage
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
  • Leftovers can also be frozen in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 6 months, although it will have the best taste and texture if used in the first 3-4 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 67cal | Protein: 12g | Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 36mg | Sodium: 288mg | Potassium: 221mg | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 0.7mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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Tag @thereciperebel or hashtag #thereciperebel —
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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast https://www.thereciperebel.com/slow-cooker-creamy-tomato-basil-chicken/ https://www.thereciperebel.com/slow-cooker-creamy-tomato-basil-chicken/#comments Tue, 23 Jan 2024 06:44:00 +0000 https://www.thereciperebel.com/?p=5872 This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast is SO easy and flavorful, you wouldn’t believe it only has just…

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This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Breast is SO easy and flavorful, you wouldn’t believe it only has just a few ingredients! The perfect easy crockpot chicken recipe for busy weeknights!

If you’re looking for more crockpot chicken breast recipes, check out this Crockpot Creamy Garlic Chicken or this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken!

overhead image of slow cooker creamy tomato basil chicken breast in white crockpot.

Life is busy and I’m busting out all the easy slow cooker, one pot and Instant Pot recipes to keep us sane! This Crockpot Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is well-loved here around the dinner table.

Chicken is such a versatile protein so we always have a stash in the freezer!

This slow cooker chicken recipe comes together in no time with just a handful of ingredients that we usually have on hand — which makes it a win in my books!

The creamy tomato flavor combo is always a hit, and we love this chicken over a plate of spaghetti but it can really be a stand alone meal with a side salad if that’s your thing!

Reader Rating

“So easy and delicious! Followed the recipe exactly. 3 hours and was so moist. Served over spaghetti with fresh green beans Picky husband and foodie son went back for seconds!” — Liz

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If you love this recipe, you might enjoy this Slow Cooker Chicken Breast or this Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings — they are both easy Crockpot meals!

Why we love this Slow Cooker Chicken Breast recipe:

  • it’s a Real Life recipe: it’s easy to prep, mostly hands off and the family loves. We all need more of that!
  • it’s a slow cooker win: with a lot of slow cooker recipes, I find you sacrifice either flavor or texture or both. With this chicken you dump and go, and the sauce is the perfect consistency when it’s done and the flavor is awesome!
  • it’s quick to prep: being a dump and go slow cooker, you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen, which is a plus on busy weeknights!

Slow Cooker Tomato Basil Chicken Ingredients:

ingredients needed for slow cooker tomato basil chicken.
  • Chicken breasts: we always use chicken breasts for this recipe but boneless, skinless chicken thighs would also work well. If you choose bone-in chicken the cook time will increase significantly.
  • Tomato pasta sauce: this is simply a tomato sauce that you would use on pasta with herbs and seasonings, i.e., a marinara or something similar. This is not tomato paste. Choose your favorite well-seasoned brand!
  • Diced tomatoes: If you don’t like the chunks of tomato you can sub this out with an additional cup of tomato pasta sauce.
  • Garlic and seasonings: I’ve kept things simple, but feel free to experiment if you prefer. Add some red pepper flakes if you like things spicy!
  • Cream: I recommend heavy cream or evaporated milk in this recipe. I find that they have the lowest chance of curdling when cooked with the acidic tomatoes. I do not recommend low fat cream or milk, but you are always welcome to try!
  • Corn starch: A little corn starch helps to thicken our sauce. You can swap this out with flour if you don’t have any.
  • Fresh basil: fresh basil can be hard to find in the cooler months. Basil pesto is my favorite swap because it adds more of that fresh flavor than dried basil.

How to make Creamy Tomato Basil Crockpot Chicken Breast:

This is a simple overview to help guide you! Scroll down to find the detailed recipe in the pink recipe card.

  • Stir together sauce, tomatoes and herbs.
  • Whisk the corn starch into the cream.
  • Add the cream to the slow cooker and stir.
  • Add the uncooked chicken and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

How long to cook chicken breasts in the crockpot?

Not overcooking slow cooker chicken breasts is the key to having juicy and flavorful chicken.

I usually recommend 3 hours on low — this might be a little less if your chicken breasts are small or a little more if your chicken breasts are large.

If you’re cooking on high, check the internal temperature at 2-2.5 hours and add time as needed.

side angle of crockpot chicken breast in tomato basil sauce.

Can I use half and half or milk?

Low fat dairy has more of a tendency to curdle.

For that reason, the addition of the tomatoes and the long cook time, I prefer not to take the chance. My exception is low fat evaporated milk, which I find works really well in slow cooker recipes.

You are always welcome to try it!

What kind of tomato pasta sauce do I need?

Choose your favorite brand of tomato-based pasta sauce, i.e., marinara sauce or something similar.

You’re looking for a relatively smooth and well-seasoned tomato sauce, rather than a can of plan crushed tomatoes.

sliced tomato basil slow cooker chicken breast on a plate of pasta.

Tips for making this slow cooker chicken recipe:

  • Don’t overcook it — I find 3 hours is plenty for the usual size of my chicken breasts. I recommend checking the temperature at 2.5 hours for smaller breasts, and 3 hours for larger breasts, and adding time as needed.
  • I made this recipe in a 4 quart slow cooker — if you want to double it, I suggest a 6 quart slow cooker (I have both, and use them for different things!).
  • I really, really love using slow cooker liners. I will gladly pay the 50 cents or whatever they cost to not have to wash that beast!
  • Please always, always check the temperature of your chicken with a meat thermometer before serving just to be safe! All slow cookers cook differently.
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Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken is SO easy and flavorful, you wouldn't believe it only has a few ingredients! The perfect easy dinner recipe!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Diet Gluten Free
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 210cal

Ingredients

  • 14 oz can diced tomatoes with Italian herbs (398 ml)
  • 1 cup tomato pasta sauce
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup evaporated milk or heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons corn starch
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil

Instructions

  • Add tomatoes, pasta sauce, garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, basil and pepper to a 3-6 quart slow cooker. Stir.
  • Whisk together cream and corn starch and add to the slow cooker.
  • Add chicken breasts and press down into the sauce.
  • Cook on low for 3-5 hours, until a meat thermometer reads 165 degrees F. The exact cook time will depend on your slow cooker — a fuller slow cooker will take longer to cook, so a larger one will cook faster.
  • Stir in fresh basil and serve over pasta, rice, or with a salad and veggies!

Video

Notes

*Some sauce was removed from the pictures in the slow cooker to show detail. The recipe makes plenty of sauce for pasta!
Ingredients and Substitutions:
Chicken: this recipe will also work with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, or try it with chicken meatballs, sausages, or another cut for something unique!
Tomato pasta sauce: choose any tomato marinara-style sauce you like. The more flavor in the pasta sauce, the more flavor your chicken will have. 
Diced tomatoes: if you don’t like the chunks of diced tomatoes, I recommend just swapping with additional tomato sauce.
Cream or evaporated milk: Heavy cream or evaporated milk will work best because they do not curdle. Please do not use regular milk or a light cream. 
Herbs & seasonings: feel free to adjust the herbs and seasonings to your tastes. Like it spicy? Add some cayenne or red pepper flakes!
Fresh basil: we make this recipe all year round but fresh basil can be impossible to find. I like to swap with basil pesto for that fresh basil flavor.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 210cal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 74mg | Sodium: 1099mg | Potassium: 977mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 657IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 191mg | Iron: 2mg

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