Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a versatile dish that's perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Heidi Lawson

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:01:09.740Z

Slow cookers make everything easier, and this shredded chicken recipe is no exception. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that works well in tacos, salads, and sandwiches.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless preparation with minimal ingredients
  • Perfectly tender chicken that shreds easily
  • Great for meal prep and versatile for various dishes

Meal Prep Made Easy

Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is not just a delicious dish; it's a game-changer for meal prep enthusiasts. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a protein-packed base for your weekly meals. Whether you're planning lunches for work or dinners for the family, having shredded chicken on hand makes assembling meals a breeze. Portion it out in containers with your favorite sides and sauces, and you're set for the week.

By making this shredded chicken in bulk, you can save time and avoid the stress of daily cooking. It’s perfect for busy individuals or families who want to eat healthily without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it freezes well, so you can always have a stash ready for those days when cooking feels like a chore.

Versatile Culinary Uses

One of the best things about Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is its versatility. You can use it in a multitude of dishes, making it a staple in your kitchen. From tacos and burritos to salads and sandwiches, the options are endless. Want to create a hearty soup? Add the shredded chicken to your broth with some veggies, and you have a comforting meal in no time.

This shredded chicken can also be the star of your pasta dishes. Mix it with your favorite sauce and serve it over spaghetti or use it in a creamy Alfredo. The flavor profile can easily be adjusted with different spices or marinades, allowing you to switch up your meals without much effort. It's a fantastic way to keep your dinner routine exciting while enjoying the same base ingredient.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or need something quick for a busy weeknight, Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken fits the bill. It’s an excellent choice for game day parties, where you can serve it as sliders or in a nacho platter. The tender chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of dips and toppings, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Additionally, if you're looking to impress at a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. Simply bring it along, and let everyone customize their plates with different toppings like avocado, cheese, or salsa. Not only will you have a delicious dish to share, but you'll also be the one everyone remembers for bringing such a fantastic meal!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Shredded Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will yield a deliciously shredded chicken that can be used in numerous recipes.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.

Shred the Chicken

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

Serve

Enjoy the shredded chicken in tacos, salads, or sandwiches!

This simple method ensures that your chicken is flavorful and tender every time.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken turns out perfectly every time, choose high-quality chicken breasts. Fresh chicken will yield better flavor and texture than frozen. If you have time, consider marinating the chicken overnight with your favorite spices or sauces to enhance the flavor even further before cooking.

Also, avoid lifting the lid of the slow cooker during the cooking process. Each time you open it, you lose heat, which can extend cooking time and affect the final result. Trust the slow cooker to do its job and give it time to work its magic.

Storage and Reheating

Once you've prepared your shredded chicken, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, as you can easily grab portions throughout the week. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the shredded chicken. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

When it's time to enjoy your frozen shredded chicken, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist while reheating. This way, you’ll have a quick and easy meal ready to go without compromising on flavor or texture.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

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

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze shredded chicken?

Yes, shredded chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

→ What can I make with shredded chicken?

You can use shredded chicken in tacos, enchiladas, salads, sandwiches, or even on top of rice or pasta.

Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

Simple Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken is a versatile dish that's perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration6 hours
Overall Time6 hours 10 minutes

Created by: Heidi Lawson

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Shredded Chicken

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1 cup chicken broth
  3. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  4. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  5. 1 teaspoon paprika
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 02

Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken.

Step 03

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.

Step 04

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

Step 05

Enjoy the shredded chicken in tacos, salads, or sandwiches!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 49g