13 Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipes For Busy Days And Cozy Nights

13 Crockpot Chicken Breast Recipes For Busy Days And Cozy Nights – your ticket to effortless, delicious meals no matter how packed your schedule gets. When life moves at lightning speed and you’re craving something hearty yet hassle-free, your trusty slow cooker becomes the ultimate kitchen hero. These 13 chicken breast recipes transform simple ingredients into mouthwatering meals that practically cook themselves, from creamy comfort food classics to globally-inspired dishes bursting with flavor. Whether you’re racing between meetings or settling in for a relaxing evening, these set-it-and-forget-it recipes deliver tender, juicy results every time.

Chicken Breast Recipes

Picture coming home to the irresistible aroma of garlic butter chicken wafting through your kitchen, or digging into fall-off-the-fork tender barbecue chicken after a long day. We’ve included everything from one-pot wonders to meal prep superstars, each designed to maximize flavor while minimizing effort. With options for high-protein lunches, family dinners, and even special occasions, these recipes prove that convenience never has to mean compromise when it comes to taste.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Bowl of creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with pasta and herbs

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days. The chicken becomes tender and juicy while simmering in a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce, making it a real crowd-pleaser at the dinner table.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it also packs a ton of flavor with minimal effort. Just toss everything in your crockpot, and let it do the hard work for you. Serve it over pasta or with a side of vegetables for a complete meal!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and melted butter. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
  4. Once done, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir to combine. Serve over pasta or alongside your favorite side dish, garnished with fresh parsley.

Mexican Chicken Tacos

Delicious Mexican chicken tacos served with fresh toppings.

These Mexican chicken tacos are a delicious and easy meal for busy days. Bursting with flavors from spices and fresh ingredients, they bring a taste of Mexico right to your table. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to make in the crockpot, making them perfect for those cozy nights when you want something warm and satisfying.

Each bite features tender chicken, seasoned to perfection, topped with fresh tomatoes and cilantro. You can customize them with your favorite toppings like avocado or salsa. It’s a fun, casual meal that everyone can enjoy, and best of all, it takes minimal effort to prepare!

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • Tortillas, for serving
  • Toppings: chopped cilantro, diced avocado, salsa, shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle the taco seasoning over them.
  2. Pour the chicken broth and diced tomatoes over the chicken, then add the chopped onion.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
  4. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks, mixing it with the juices in the crockpot.
  5. Serve the shredded chicken in tortillas and add your favorite toppings!

Chicken and Dumplings Comfort Bowl

A comforting bowl of chicken and dumplings dish

Chicken and dumplings is the ultimate cozy dish that warms you from the inside out. This hearty recipe combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings, all simmered in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for busy evenings, it’s easy to prepare and lets your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you relax.

The delightful mix of textures and the comforting flavors make this dish a family favorite. It’s creamy, savory, and downright delicious. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that takes minimal effort, meaning more time to enjoy those cozy moments with loved ones.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cups biscuit dough (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, thyme, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  3. Add Cream Soup: Shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Stir in the cream of chicken soup and frozen peas, mixing well.
  4. Add Dumplings: Cut the biscuit dough into quarters and drop them on top of the chicken mixture. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
  5. Serve: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Honey Mustard Chicken with Vegetables

Honey mustard chicken and vegetables ready to be cooked in a crockpot.

This Honey Mustard Chicken with Vegetables is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with the sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy days. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.

The vibrant mix of seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition, making this meal not only tasty but also wholesome. This dish is ideal for cozy nights in, offering a comforting and satisfying dinner option without the fuss.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix honey and Dijon mustard until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Place the mixed vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, then place them on top of the vegetables.
  3. Add the Sauce: Drizzle the honey mustard mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Serve: Once done, shred the chicken if desired, and serve hot with the vegetables.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Chili

A bowl of spicy buffalo chicken chili garnished with green onions and served with bread.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Chili is the perfect warm-up for chilly days. This dish offers a delightful blend of spicy buffalo sauce and hearty chili ingredients, making it both comforting and exciting. The flavors meld beautifully as the chicken cooks low and slow, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.

Simple to make, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy days. Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you! The result is a zesty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy nights in.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, green onions, sour cream

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, onion, and garlic on top.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, buffalo sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Serve hot, topped with cheese, green onions, and sour cream if desired.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

A bowl of Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry with colorful vegetables

This Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich teriyaki sauce, it’s a perfect dish for a busy weeknight. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also packs a nutritious punch with all those vibrant veggies.

This recipe is designed for simplicity, making it great for those hectic days when you need a wholesome meal without much fuss. Plus, you can easily customize the vegetables to your liking, ensuring every bite is just right!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breasts, sliced
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
  • 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil and sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Introduce the sliced chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until just tender.
  5. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve hot over cooked rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds before enjoying.

BBQ Chicken Sliders

BBQ chicken sliders on a wooden platter with coleslaw.

BBQ chicken sliders are a delicious and hassle-free meal perfect for busy days or cozy nights. The tender, flavorful chicken mixed with zesty barbecue sauce makes each bite a delight. With minimal prep time, these sliders are ideal for any gathering or a simple weeknight dinner.

This recipe is all about convenience without sacrificing flavor. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy more time with family or friends. Topped with crunchy coleslaw and served on soft buns, these sliders are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 slider buns
  • 1 cup coleslaw mix
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken.
  2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it well with the BBQ sauce in the slow cooker.
  4. Assemble the Sliders: Spoon the BBQ chicken onto the slider buns. Top with coleslaw mix and ranch dressing if desired. Serve immediately.

Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Delicious Lemon Herb Chicken served with rice and lemon slices

When you need a dish that’s light, zesty, and comforting, Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts infused with fresh lemon and herbs, served over a fluffy bed of rice. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for gatherings.

The bright flavors of lemon and aromatic herbs create a delightful balance, making each bite refreshing. Plus, the crockpot does all the work for you, allowing the chicken to become beautifully tender while you focus on other tasks. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice over the chicken. Season with garlic powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked rice and water to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Continue cooking until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
  5. Serve the chicken and rice topped with fresh parsley and additional lemon slices, if desired.

Coconut Curry Chicken

A bowl of coconut curry chicken served over rice with a sprinkle of cilantro.

Coconut Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. It’s creamy, aromatic, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Plus, this recipe is super easy to make, just throw everything in the crockpot, and let it do its magic!

The rich coconut milk and warm spices combine beautifully with tender chicken, creating a dish that is both satisfying and light. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that feels special without requiring a lot of effort.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients (except for cilantro and rice) in the crockpot. Stir well to ensure the chicken is coated in the sauce.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  3. After cooking, shred the chicken with two forks and stir to mix everything well.
  4. Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Italian Chicken and Spinach Pasta

A plate of Italian chicken and spinach pasta garnished with basil and Parmesan cheese.

This Italian Chicken and Spinach Pasta recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. The tender chicken, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a delightful harmony of flavors. Rich in Italian herbs, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something comforting.

Making this dish is a breeze, especially when using a crockpot. Just toss everything in, let it cook, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go. It’s an effortless way to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table without fussing over multiple pots.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In the crockpot, combine the cubed chicken, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
  3. Cook the Pasta: About 20 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  4. Combine: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
  5. Serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Enjoy your cozy meal!

Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms

Balsamic chicken with mushrooms served on a plate

This Balsamic Chicken with Mushrooms is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with earthy mushrooms and a rich balsamic glaze. The flavors meld beautifully as the chicken cooks low and slow in your crockpot, making it an easy choice for busy weeknights.

With its savory and slightly tangy profile, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it requires minimal prep, so you can spend more time relaxing and less time in the kitchen!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, honey, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and cover them with sliced mushrooms. Pour the balsamic mixture over the top, ensuring everything is well coated.
  3. Cook: Set the crockpot on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Serve: Once it’s done cooking, shred the chicken if desired and stir everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cilantro Lime Chicken

A plate of cilantro lime chicken served with rice and garnished with lime and cilantro.

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for busy days. The bright flavors of lime combined with the fresh taste of cilantro create a delightful experience with every bite. It’s simple to make in the crockpot, allowing you to enjoy tender, juicy chicken without spending much time in the kitchen.

This dish not only brings a taste of the tropics to your table but also pairs wonderfully with rice or tortillas, making it versatile for any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is well-coated.
  3. Add Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the crockpot to help keep the chicken moist during cooking.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  5. Serve: Once done, shred the chicken with two forks, mixing it with the juices in the crockpot. Serve it over rice or in tortillas, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

Chicken Fajita Soup

A warm bowl of Chicken Fajita Soup garnished with cilantro and colorful peppers.

Chicken Fajita Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the vibrant flavors of fajitas right into a warm, inviting bowl. This soup features tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices, making it a delicious and satisfying option for any busy day. It’s incredibly easy to make, especially with a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it while you go about your day.

The combination of spices gives this soup a lively kick, while the fresh ingredients add a burst of color and nutrition. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or a quick meal after a long day. Pair it with some tortilla chips or a side of warm bread for a complete meal!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Add the Veggies: Top the chicken with black beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
  3. Season: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Pour the chicken broth on top.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  5. Shred the Chicken: About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken in the pot and stir everything together to combine the flavors.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy with tortilla chips!

Final Thoughts


In a world that never slows down, these crockpot chicken breast recipes are your secret weapon for putting satisfying meals on the table with minimal fuss. The beauty of slow cooking lies in its magical ability to turn basic ingredients into extraordinary dishes while you go about your day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or craving some cozy comfort food, these recipes deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. So dust off that slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the delicious rewards of smart, stress-free cooking – because everyone deserves great meals, no matter how busy life gets!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment