Pic Credit: foodtasticmom.com
Cooking frozen chicken breast in a crock pot is a simple and tasty way to make meals without needing to thaw the chicken first. This method lets you have soft, tasty chicken with very little work. Whether you’re busy with work or family duties, this recipe will help you make a nutritious meal that everyone will enjoy. In this article, I’ll show you the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for making the best crock pot frozen chicken breast.
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
Ingredients
- 1 kg frozen chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup diced vegetables (e.g., carrots, bell peppers, or onions)
- Optional: ½ cup barbecue sauce or salsa for flavor
MEASURES & PRECAUTIONS
- Use Frozen Chicken: Make sure the chicken breasts are completely frozen before putting them in the crock pot. Cooking from frozen helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Leave enough room in the crock pot so steam can move around. If it’s too crowded, the chicken might not cook evenly.
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches at least 75°C (165°F) inside. This is important for safe eating.
- Add Liquid: Put enough liquid (like broth or sauce) in the crock pot to keep the chicken from drying out while it cooks.
- Cook on Low: For the best results, cook on low heat for a few hours instead of high heat. This helps the chicken become tender and juicy.
Crock Pot Frozen Chicken Breast Recipe
INGREDIENTS NOTES
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Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
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Broth Options: You can use homemade or store-bought chicken broth; low-sodium options are available if you prefer less salt.
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Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand; frozen vegetables can also be used.
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Spices: Adjust spices according to your taste; adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile.
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Sauces: Barbecue sauce or salsa can add a unique twist; experiment with different flavors for variety.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Prepare the Crock Pot: Start by spraying the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly greasing it with oil to prevent sticking.
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Add Ingredients: Place the frozen chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
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Add Vegetables: If using fresh vegetables, chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them on top of the chicken. If using frozen vegetables, add them directly without thawing.
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Cover and Cook: Securely cover the crock pot with its lid. Set it to low heat for 6 to 8 hours or high heat for 3 to 4 hours.
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Check Doneness: About half an hour before serving, check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of at least 75°C (165°F). If not, continue cooking until done.
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Shred Chicken (Optional): Once cooked, you can shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks or remove it and shred it on a cutting board before returning it to mix with juices.
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Serve: Once shredded (if desired), stir everything together in the crock pot and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
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Add More Flavor: Consider marinating your frozen chicken in your favorite marinade overnight before cooking for enhanced flavor.
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Experiment with Spices: Try adding different spices such as cumin or chili powder for a Southwestern twist.
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Make It Creamy: For a creamy dish, add a block of cream cheese during the last hour of cooking and stir until melted and combined.
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Serve with Sides: Pair your crock pot chicken with rice, pasta, or quinoa for a complete meal.
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Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
EQUIPMENT
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Crock pot (slow cooker)
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Cutting board
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Knife
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Meat thermometer
Note
SERVING TIPS 💡
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Garnish Ideas: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving for added color and flavor.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice or pasta for a hearty meal; alternatively, use it as a filling for tacos or sandwiches.
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Portion Control: Use a ladle to serve portions evenly if serving guests; this helps manage portion sizes effectively.
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Pair with Sides: Complement your dish with sides like steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for balance.
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Keep Warm Setting: If serving later, keep your crock pot on warm setting until ready to serve; this maintains temperature without overcooking.
If you're looking for a quick and flavorful meal, check out this easy Chicken Marinara recipe.
