14 Summer Chicken Crockpot Recipes That Are Full Of Flavor

14 Summer Chicken Crockpot Recipes That Are Full Of Flavor bring the ease of slow cooking and the bright, bold tastes of summer together in the most delicious way. As the days get warmer and longer, the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours in a hot kitchen. That’s where your crockpot becomes your best friend. These recipes are perfect for busy summer schedules, offering mouthwatering chicken dishes that practically cook themselves while you enjoy your day. From zesty citrus marinades to garden-fresh herbs and seasonal veggies, each recipe captures the essence of summer in every bite.

Crockpot Recipes

Whether you’re planning a backyard get-together, packing meals for a picnic, or simply want a flavorful weeknight dinner without the fuss, this list has you covered. You’ll find a refreshing variety—from light and tangy lemon chicken to rich barbecue-style pulls and tropical pineapple-infused creations. These slow-cooked meals are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly tender and satisfying. So, let your crockpot do the heavy lifting while you kick back, relax, and make the most of your summer days.

Honey Mustard BBQ Chicken

Honey mustard BBQ chicken with grilled corn on a tray

Honey Mustard BBQ Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional barbecue chicken, blending sweet honey, tangy mustard, and rich barbecue sauce into one mouthwatering dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner, allowing you to enjoy bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Simply toss the chicken in a flavorful marinade and let your crockpot do the work. The result is tender, juicy chicken that pairs beautifully with grilled corn and your favorite sides. It’s a sure hit for everyone at the table!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine honey, Dijon mustard, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the honey mustard BBQ mixture over them.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce before serving.
  5. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs garnished with parsley and lemon slices.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs are a deliciously simple dish that brings bold flavors to your dinner table. The tender chicken thighs are coated in garlic, rich Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon, creating a savory delight that is perfect for any summer meal. This recipe is both beginner-friendly and incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

As your chicken cooks low and slow in the crockpot, it absorbs all those mouthwatering flavors, resulting in juicy, tender meat that practically falls off the bone. Serve it with a side of fresh vegetables or over a bed of rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the garlic mixture over them, making sure they are well coated.
  3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken, then cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  4. Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Plate of grilled chicken with lemon slices and herbs

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe bursts with refreshing flavors that are perfect for summer gatherings. The tangy lemon combined with fragrant herbs makes for a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying the sun and less time in the kitchen.

The chicken marinates in a zesty mixture, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When grilled, it develops a delicious smoky char that complements the citrus notes perfectly. Ideal for barbecues or simple weeknight dinners, you’ll love how quickly this dish comes together!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra lemon wedges and your favorite summer sides.

Southwest Chicken Chili

A bowl of Southwest Chicken Chili garnished with avocado, jalapeños, and cilantro

This Southwest Chicken Chili is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for summer. With a blend of spices, beans, and tender chicken, it offers a burst of flavors that will warm you up from the inside out.

It’s incredibly easy to make, simply throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you. This dish is great for meal prep or a casual gathering with friends!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (with green chilies if you like it spicy)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Avocado and jalapeños for topping

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and chicken broth on top of the chicken.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
  4. Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot and stir everything together.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and sliced jalapeños.

Spicy Mango Chicken Tacos

Tacos filled with spicy chicken and diced mango, garnished with cilantro.

These Spicy Mango Chicken Tacos are a vibrant and tasty dish perfect for summer! The combination of tender chicken, spices, and sweet mango creates a delightful flavor explosion. Not only are they easy to make, but they also bring a fresh twist to your taco night.

With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can whip up this delicious meal without the fuss. The juicy mango adds a pleasant sweetness that balances the heat from the spices, making each bite a memorable experience.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 8 taco shells
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Crockpot Cooking: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  3. Prepare the Mango: While the chicken is cooking, dice the mango and set it aside.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, shred it using two forks right in the slow cooker. Mix it with the juices for added flavor.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Fill taco shells with the shredded chicken, top with diced mango, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Bowl of creamy Tuscan chicken with spinach and cherry tomatoes, served with bread

Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer. With juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, and sweet cherry tomatoes, this recipe is bursting with flavor. The creamy sauce ties everything together, making it a fantastic choice for a comforting meal without the fuss.

This recipe is not only simple to whip up in a crockpot, but it also allows the ingredients to meld beautifully while you relax or tackle other tasks. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the minced garlic on top.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
  4. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes to the crockpot. Stir gently.
  5. Once done, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Mediterranean Chicken with Olives

A bowl of Mediterranean chicken with olives, tomatoes, and herbs, served with pita bread.

This Mediterranean Chicken with Olives is a delightful dish bursting with bold flavors. It combines juicy chicken, tangy olives, and ripe tomatoes, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s super easy to make in your crockpot, making it perfect for busy summer days.

The savory profile of this dish features herbs and spices that transport your taste buds right to the Mediterranean. Serve it with warm pita or over a bed of couscous for a complete meal. It’s a hands-off recipe that will have your kitchen smelling amazing!

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup black olives, pitted
  • 1 cup green olives, pitted
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: In the crockpot, combine the diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and green olives.
  2. Add Seasoning: Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine well.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
  4. Serve: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with pita bread or couscous.

Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple

A bowl of Teriyaki chicken with pineapple served over rice.

This Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple recipe is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chicken, accented with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, makes for a dish that is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, perfect for those warm summer days.

Throw everything into a crockpot and let it do the work while you enjoy your day. Served over rice, this meal will surely become a favorite for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Add the pineapple chunks.
  2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over the chicken and pineapple.
  3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir into the crockpot and cook for another 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
  5. Serve: Shred the chicken if desired and serve over rice. Garnish with chopped green onions.

BBQ Ranch Chicken Wraps

Delicious BBQ Ranch Chicken Wraps with fresh veggies and ranch dressing

BBQ Ranch Chicken Wraps are a fantastic way to enjoy a quick and tasty meal. With tender, flavorful chicken, crunchy veggies, and a zesty ranch dressing, these wraps are perfect for warm summer days. They’re simple to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The combination of BBQ sauce and ranch dressing gives the chicken a deliciously tangy twist, while fresh veggies add a satisfying crunch. You can customize these wraps with your favorite ingredients, ensuring everyone will love them!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/3 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/3 cup ranch dressing
  • 4 large tortillas
  • 1 cup lettuce, shredded
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup cheese, shredded (cheddar or your choice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl until well coated.
  2. In another bowl, combine the ranch dressing with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Lay out the tortillas and top each with a generous layer of lettuce, followed by the BBQ chicken mixture.
  4. Add diced bell peppers, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese on top.
  5. Drizzle ranch dressing over the fillings, then carefully roll up each tortilla tightly.
  6. Slice in half, serve with extra ranch dressing on the side, and enjoy!

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This cheesy chicken and rice casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for casual dinners or family gatherings.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also super easy to make. Just toss everything into your crockpot, let it cook, and enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home. This recipe strikes a great balance between creamy and cheesy, making it a go-to for any time of the year.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a crockpot, stirring to mix well.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the rice is tender and the mixture is heated through.
  3. Before serving, sprinkle additional cheese on top and let it melt for a few minutes.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy!

Coconut Curry Chicken

A bowl of coconut curry chicken with colorful vegetables garnished with cilantro.

Coconut Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a tropical twist to your dinner table. With its rich coconut milk and aromatic spices, this recipe offers a burst of flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s super simple to make—just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you!

The combination of tender chicken and sweet coconut, along with a hint of curry, creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Serve it over rice or with naan for a complete meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the crockpot.
  2. Add Ingredients: Pour in the coconut milk, curry paste, chopped onion, garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and butternut squash. Stir to combine.
  3. Season: Add soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Serve: Shred the chicken in the pot, mix it with the sauce, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving over rice or with naan.

Lemon Pepper Chicken with Veggies

A plate of lemon pepper chicken served with colorful vegetables.

This Lemon Pepper Chicken with Veggies is the perfect dish for a summer dinner. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for those warmer days. The zesty lemon paired with the savory chicken creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.

Best of all, it’s super easy to make in a crockpot! Just toss in your ingredients and let it cook while you enjoy your day. The colorful veggies add a crunchy texture, making this dish not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, yellow)
  • 1 cup sliced zucchini
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with lemon pepper, salt, and pepper.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and garlic on top of the chicken.
  3. Add the Tomatoes and Lemon: Scatter the cherry tomatoes and lemon slices over the top of the vegetables.
  4. Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo chicken sliders on a wooden board, garnished with pickles and served with a side of dipping sauce.

Buffalo chicken sliders are a perfect blend of heat and flavor, making them a fantastic choice for summer gatherings. These sliders are simple to whip up, and they pack a punch with spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and creamy toppings. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any barbecue or picnic!

These sliders bring together crispy chicken with zesty buffalo sauce, complemented by crunchy pickles and rich mayonnaise, all tucked into soft slider buns. They’re not just delicious; they’re also easy to make in your crockpot, letting you enjoy more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

Italian Herb Chicken and Pasta

A plate of Italian Herb Chicken and Pasta served with fresh tomatoes and basil.

Italian Herb Chicken and Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked pasta, all infused with aromatic herbs. The flavors come together beautifully, making it a perfect choice for a busy summer day when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is simple to whip up in a crockpot, allowing the chicken to soak up all the delicious herb-infused broth. With juicy tomatoes and fresh basil, it delivers a burst of flavor in every bite, making it a family favorite!

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (like linguine or spaghetti)
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place them in the crockpot.
  2. Add the chicken broth and cherry tomatoes on top of the chicken in the crockpot.
  3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked pasta and fresh spinach to the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, serve the dish garnished with fresh basil.

Final thoughts


Summer cooking should be easy, enjoyable, and full of flavor—and these 14 chicken crockpot recipes check all the boxes. They offer simple preparation, delicious results, and the freedom to focus on what truly matters: soaking up the season with good food and great company. Whether you try one or make your way through them all, these dishes are sure to become warm-weather staples in your kitchen.

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