Juicy Crock Pot Shredded Chicken That's Perfect for Meal Prep

shredded chicken being pulled with two forks in a bowl

Juicy Crock Pot Shredded Chicken That's Perfect for Meal Prep

This easy crock pot shredded chicken recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a hands-off dinner solution. With just 5 minutes of prep and 3½ hours of slow cooking, you’ll have juicy, tender, and flavorful shredded chicken that’s ideal for meal prep, freezer storage, or budget-friendly family meals.

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 3 30

Total Time 3 35

Servings 1/2 cups

Calories 210

Author Gina Dickson

Ingredients

4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt optional, to taste
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 bay leaf small, 2-inch size
1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking.
4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
Sprinkle onion powder, garlic powder, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. Turn the chicken and season the other side.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Add the bay leaf.
1 bay leaf
Pour chicken broth around the sides of the chicken breasts.
1 cup chicken broth

Cook the Chicken

Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours if you’re short on time.
Check for doneness — chicken should shred easily and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.

Shred and Save

Remove the bay leaf and transfer chicken to a cutting board.
Shred the chicken using two forks.
Save the broth — strain and cool it, then freeze in ice cube trays for future use.

Notes

Storage and Reheating

At Room Temperature: Let cool for 15 minutes before refrigerating or freezing.
In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days.
In the Freezer: Divide into 1 to 2-cup portions for freezer-friendly shredded chicken that keeps up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm the chicken in the microwave in short 30-second bursts, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it juicy, or cover and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Nutrition