14 Chicken Crockpot Recipes Perfect For Memorial Day – Set It And Forget It

Memorial Day weekend calls for easy, crowd-pleasing meals that let you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday. These 14 chicken crockpot recipes are the ultimate solution—just set them in the morning, and by the time your guests arrive, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken dishes ready to serve. From tangy BBQ pulled chicken sliders to creamy garlic Parmesan chicken, each recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Chicken Crockpot Recipes

Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, a potluck, or a casual family gathering, these slow-cooked favorites guarantee a stress-free feast. Think juicy shredded chicken tacos, honey sriracha drumsticks, and hearty chicken chili—all simmered to perfection while you relax. No babysitting the grill or last-minute prep needed. Just load up your crockpot, kick back, and let it work its magic.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo chicken sliders served on a plate with celery sticks and dipping sauce.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a deliciously easy way to spice up your Memorial Day gathering. These sliders bring the bold and tangy flavors of traditional buffalo chicken in a fun, bite-sized format that everyone loves. Perfectly seasoned and juicy, they pack a punch that’s sure to excite the taste buds.

Making these sliders is a breeze; just toss the chicken in your slow cooker with buffalo sauce, let it cook, and shred it when it’s tender. Serve it on soft slider buns with your favorite toppings, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 12 slider buns
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing
  • Celery sticks for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour buffalo sauce over the top and sprinkle with ranch seasoning and garlic powder.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
  3. Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks and mix with the sauce.
  4. Toast the slider buns if desired. Scoop a generous portion of the buffalo chicken onto each bun.
  5. Drizzle with blue cheese or ranch dressing, add celery sticks for crunch, and serve immediately.

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

A plate of honey garlic chicken thighs garnished with green onions.

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, making them a hit with everyone. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a sticky glaze that perfectly coats the tender chicken, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

This recipe is easy to make, requiring minimal prep work. Just toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the cooking. You’ll come home to a delicious meal that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, perfect for Memorial Day gatherings!

Ingredients

  • 4-6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
  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 done, shred the chicken in the crockpot to mix it well with the sauce or serve whole. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Teriyaki Chicken with Broccoli

A delicious serving of teriyaki chicken with broccoli over rice in a slow cooker.

Teriyaki Chicken with Broccoli is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with crisp broccoli, all tossed in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce. This recipe is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare by using a slow cooker. Just set it, forget it, and come home to a warm, satisfying meal.

This dish is perfect for busy days, especially around Memorial Day gatherings. The delicious harmony of savory chicken and fresh veggies makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup baby carrots, chopped
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon minced ginger
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, and pour the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger on top.
  2. Add the chopped carrots and broccoli florets to the slow cooker, mixing everything gently.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  4. Once done, shred the chicken with two forks in the slow cooker and stir everything to combine.
  5. Serve over cooked jasmine rice, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breasts garnished with lemon slices and fresh herbs on a wooden platter.

This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a light, refreshing dish that’s perfect for Memorial Day or any outdoor gathering. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs create a tasty marinade that infuses the chicken with a zesty punch. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The grilling process adds a lovely smoky flavor, while the lemon helps keep the chicken juicy and tender. It’s an easy recipe that will impress your guests and keep the mood lively and cheerful!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, 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, garlic, parsley, 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 or cover 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.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each 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 a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

BBQ Chicken and Pineapple

Crockpot BBQ chicken with pineapple chunks and garnished with cilantro

This BBQ Chicken and Pineapple recipe is a delicious combination that’s perfect for any gathering, especially Memorial Day. The sweet and tangy flavors of the barbecue sauce blend beautifully with the juicy pineapple, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

With minimal prep time, you can simply throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work. The chicken becomes tender and infused with flavor, making it a hit with family and friends. Serve it alongside rice or on a bun, and you have a fantastic meal!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Add barbecue sauce and soy sauce over the chicken, then top with pineapple chunks.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
  4. Before serving, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it well with the sauce and pineapple.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or in a sandwich.

Chicken and Vegetable Stew

A hearty bowl of chicken and vegetable stew

This Chicken and Vegetable Stew is the perfect cozy dish for any occasion. Bursting with flavor, it combines tender chicken with hearty vegetables in a rich broth, making each spoonful a warm delight. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare—just toss everything in your crockpot and let it do the work!

This recipe is a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s packed with nutrition, while also being easy on the schedule. Serve it up with some crusty bread for a complete feast!

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
  • 4 carrots, chopped
  • 3 potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping the carrots, potatoes, onion, and celery. Mince the garlic and set aside.
  2. Layer in the Crockpot: Place the chicken at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the chopped vegetables on top, followed by the minced garlic.
  3. Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Sprinkle the thyme, basil, salt, and pepper over the top.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
  5. Finish the Stew: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.

Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos

A colorful plate of cilantro lime chicken tacos with fresh toppings.

Cilantro lime chicken tacos are a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for any gathering, especially on Memorial Day. The chicken is slow-cooked with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that pairs perfectly with your favorite toppings.

This recipe is straightforward and great for busy days. Toss everything in the crockpot in the morning, and by dinner time, you’ll have delicious tacos ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 8 small tortillas
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup diced green bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • Avocado slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the crockpot. Add lime juice, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
  4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the shredded chicken and your choice of toppings like tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and avocado slices.
  5. Serve: Enjoy your tacos with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side!

Creamy Ranch Chicken

A bowl of creamy ranch chicken served over rice with a sprinkle of parsley.

Creamy Ranch Chicken is a delightful dish packed with flavor and comfort. The creamy ranch sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken, creating a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Using a slow cooker makes this recipe a breeze, allowing you to set it and forget it while it cooks to perfection.

This dish has a rich, savory taste that will appeal to everyone at your table. It’s perfect for a family gathering or a casual dinner. Just a few ingredients and some simple steps will have you enjoying this comforting meal in no time!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix
  • 1 cup cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. In a bowl, mix together the ranch dressing mix, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the sour cream and cheddar cheese. Allow it to heat through and thicken slightly.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving, and enjoy over rice or noodles!

Italian Chicken and Peppers

A vibrant bowl of Italian chicken and peppers ready for serving.

Italian Chicken and Peppers is a delightful and straightforward dish that packs a punch of flavor. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with colorful bell peppers, creating a vibrant meal that is both hearty and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for those busy days, as you can simply set it up in the crockpot and let it do the work while you focus on your day.

This dish combines the rich taste of Italian seasoning with the natural sweetness of the peppers, making it a crowd-pleaser. It’s great served over rice or with a side of crusty bread, and it’s sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them on both sides until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
  2. In the crockpot, layer the sliced bell peppers and onion. Add the minced garlic and diced tomatoes on top.
  3. Place the seared chicken breasts over the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
  4. 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. Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tuscan Garlic Chicken

A delicious serving of Tuscan Garlic Chicken in a crockpot, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and herbs.

Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delightful, comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. It’s a simple recipe that combines tender chicken with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a rich and savory flavor profile. Plus, using a crockpot makes it incredibly easy – just set it and forget it!

This dish is perfect for busy days, especially on Memorial Day when you want to enjoy time with family and friends without spending all day in the kitchen. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, soaking up all the delicious ingredients while cooking slowly. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, and you have a meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place them in the crockpot.
  2. Add the Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic on top.
  3. 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.
  4. Finish: Once cooked, stir in the fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
  5. Serve: Enjoy this Tuscan Garlic Chicken over pasta or with your favorite bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Maple Mustard Chicken

Delicious maple mustard chicken served on a plate.

Maple Mustard Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a perfect dish for your Memorial Day gathering. It’s not only tasty but also super easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends without being stuck in the kitchen.

This recipe combines the richness of chicken with a zesty maple mustard sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the crockpot. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy, while the unique sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a meal everyone will love!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions

  1. Combine Maple Mustard Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and rosemary until well blended.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the maple mustard sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.
  3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Serve: Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle some remaining sauce over the chicken before serving.

Chicken Enchilada Casserole

Chicken enchilada casserole in a crockpot topped with fresh herbs

Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the bold flavors of traditional enchiladas with the ease of a crockpot. It’s loaded with tender chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Perfect for Memorial Day, this recipe allows you to enjoy delicious home-cooked flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Simple to make, you just layer the ingredients in your crockpot and let it do all the work. The result is a flavorful, cheesy casserole that brings the taste of Mexico right to your table. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a dish that’s both satisfying and festive!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce
  • 8 corn tortillas, cut into strips
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Layer the bottom of the crockpot with a few tortilla strips.
  2. Add half of the shredded chicken, followed by half of the black beans, corn, bell pepper, and onion.
  3. Pour a third of the enchilada sauce over the layer, then sprinkle with cheese.
  4. Repeat the layers, finishing with tortilla strips, remaining sauce, and cheese on top.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices if desired.

Mediterranean Chicken with Olives

A close-up of Mediterranean Chicken with Olives in a crockpot, featuring lemon slices and fresh herbs.

This Mediterranean Chicken with Olives recipe is a delightful dish that combines savory chicken with tangy olives and zesty lemon. The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite a burst of taste. It’s simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering restaurant-quality results.

Perfect for Memorial Day gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your guests without keeping you tied to the kitchen. Just set your crockpot, relax, and let the wonderful aromas fill your home!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 2 lemons, sliced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano.
  2. Add Flavor: Pour the chicken broth and olive oil over the chicken. Add the minced garlic, Kalamata olives, and lemon slices on top.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  4. Serve: Once done, shred the chicken if desired and serve with the olives and sauce over rice or couscous. Enjoy!

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

A delicious bowl of buffalo chicken pasta topped with green onions

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a delightful combination of tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy pasta that’s perfect for a laid-back gathering. This dish packs a punch with its spicy flavor, making it a crowd favorite for any occasion, especially Memorial Day. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in a crockpot, allowing you to enjoy time with friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen.

The comforting, cheesy goodness of this dish complements the bold buffalo flavor beautifully. It’s a simple recipe that transforms basic ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or just for a cozy night in, it will surely impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works well)
  • 1 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a crockpot, combine the buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Add Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix well to coat it in the sauce.
  4. Combine with Pasta: Once everything is well combined, add the cooked pasta to the crockpot and gently stir until the pasta is fully coated with the buffalo sauce mixture.
  5. Cheese It Up: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover, and cook on low for about 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
  6. Serve: Once done, give it a good stir and garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts


Memorial Day should be about honoring the holiday, not stressing over meal prep. These set-it-and-forget-it chicken crockpot recipes take the hassle out of hosting while delivering delicious results every time. With options ranging from classic comfort food to bold, saucy favorites, there’s something to please every palate. So fire up that slow cooker, grab a cold drink, and get ready for a laid-back celebration full of great food and even better memories. Happy Memorial Day!

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