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Best Never-Dry Overnight Crockpot Chicken Breast (Easy Recipe)

overnight crockpot chicken breast - featured image

This foolproof overnight slow cooker chicken breast recipe delivers perfectly juicy, tender chicken every time. Set it before bed and wake up to a flavorful, versatile protein perfect for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (similar size)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme.
  2. Spread sliced onion and smashed garlic cloves evenly across the bottom of the Crockpot.
  3. Place seasoned chicken breasts on top of onions in a single layer, avoiding overlap.
  4. Pour chicken broth around the sides of the chicken (not directly over the top).
  5. Crumple a piece of parchment paper, smooth it out, and place it directly on top of the chicken, tucking it around the edges (cartouche).
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
  7. Carefully remove parchment paper. Chicken should be fork-tender. Shred with two forks on a cutting board or directly in the Crockpot.
  8. Pour a few spoonfuls of the cooking liquid over the shredded chicken to keep it moist.

Notes

Do not use frozen chicken. For best results, use air-chilled chicken breasts. The parchment paper cartouche is essential for moisture. Do not cook on high. Store shredded chicken with some cooking liquid in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken, overnight chicken, never-dry chicken, easy chicken recipe, shredded chicken, meal prep chicken