Slow Cooker Chicken delivers tender, juicy results with minimal effort, making it a perfect hands-off dinner solution. Sautéed onions and garlic meld with broth and tomato paste to create a rich, herb-infused sauce that clings to every bite. With just 15 minutes of prep before letting the slow cooker work its magic, this fuss-free meal is guaranteed to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken
For the chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – These are the star of the show, so go for high-quality ones.
- Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out its flavor.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Freshly ground is always best for maximum flavor.
For the base
- Olive oil – Use a good-quality oil to sear the chicken for that golden crust.
- Yellow onion – Thinly sliced for a sweet, caramelized flavor.
- Garlic – Minced fresh garlic is a must for that rich, aromatic depth.
For the sauce
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the sauce from being too salty, but feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Tomato paste – Adds richness and a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
- Dried oregano – A classic herb that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- Dried thyme – Adds a subtle earthy note to the dish.
- Bay leaf – Don’t skip this—it infuses the sauce with a lovely, aromatic flavor.
For the slurry
- Cornstarch – This is the magic thickener for the sauce.
- Cold water – Mix with the cornstarch to create the perfect slurry—no lumps allowed!
Cook Time for Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
When I’m planning my day, I love knowing exactly how long a meal will take. This particular Slow Cooker Chicken recipe is a dream for busy schedules. You’ll have a savory braised chicken with oregano ready to go in no time.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing:
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time (High) | 3 hours 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 3 hours 35 minutes |
The best part is that the slow cooker does nearly all the work for you, freeing you up to tackle other things. For another great hands-off meal, check out my favorite slow cooker chicken stew recipe.
How to Make Hearty Tomato Braised Chicken Breasts
Creating this easy one-pot chicken dinner is simpler than you think. Follow these steps for perfectly tender herbed chicken in tomato sauce every time.
Step 1: Season & Sear
First, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This builds a foundation of flavor. Then, heat a little olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken just until it gets a beautiful golden-brown crust on each side. This step is crucial for locking in those juices!
Step 2: Build the Base
Transfer that beautifully seared chicken to your slow cooker. Now, scatter those thinly sliced onions and minced garlic right over the top. The aroma that starts to fill your kitchen is just heavenly.
Step 3: Create the Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk your chicken broth and tomato paste together until it’s completely smooth. Pour this rich, red mixture over the chicken and onions. Then, it’s time for the herbs! Sprinkle on the oregano and thyme, and don’t forget to tuck that bay leaf in there.
Step 4: Cook Low & Slow
Pop the lid on and let the magic happen. Cooking on low for about 6 hours gives you the most fall-apart tender chicken, but if you’re short on time, 3 hours on high works wonderfully too. You’ll know it’s done when the meat shreds effortlessly with a fork.
Step 5: Thicken & Serve
For the final touch, make a quick slurry with cornstarch and cold water. Stir it into the pot, let it cook for another 15-20 minutes on high, and watch your sauce transform into a luscious, thick gravy. Just remember to fish out that bay leaf before you serve your moist shredded chicken over pasta or rice!
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve made this Slow Cooker Chicken more times than I can count. Here are my favorite little secrets and twists to make it truly your own.
- Flavor Swap: Swap the oregano and thyme for a tablespoon of Italian seasoning for a different aromatic profile. It’s a simple change that makes it feel like a whole new dish.
- Diet Tweak: To keep things lighter, you can easily substitute the cornstarch slurry with a tablespoon of arrowroot powder. It works just as well for thickening!
- Prep Fix: If you’re really pressed for time, you can skip the searing step. The chicken will still be tasty, though you’ll miss out on that deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Storage Tip: This recipe stores and reheats beautifully. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for those nights you need a quick and comforting chicken casserole from the freezer. For another fantastic make-ahead idea, my lemon chicken is always a hit.
Slow Cooker Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 2 pounds total
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
Equipment
- Large skillet
- slow cooker
Method
- Season the chicken breasts on all sides with the kosher salt and black pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms; the chicken will not be cooked through.
- Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the bowl of a 6-quart slow cooker. Spread the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and tomato paste until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken and onions, then sprinkle with the dried oregano, dried thyme, and add the bay leaf.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 hours, until the chicken is extremely tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- In a small bowl, create a slurry by whisking the cornstarch with the cold water until no lumps remain. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker juices, cover, and cook on HIGH for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the sauce has thickened. Discard the bay leaf before serving.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
It always feels good to know that a comforting meal like this Slow Cooker Chicken is also doing wonderful things for your body. I love that this recipe combines lean protein with wholesome ingredients, making it a hearty and healthy choice for any family dinner. The nutritional profile is something I’m genuinely proud of.
Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied while supporting muscle health. The tomatoes in the sauce add a lovely dose of lycopene, an antioxidant, and the herbs bring their own unique benefits. For another nourishing option, my classic chicken soup recipe is another comforting favorite.
Here’s a look at the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving. Since ingredients can vary, I find it helpful to use this as a general guide.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 |
| Protein | ~35g |
| Carbohydrates | ~8g |
| Fat | ~12g |
This is a great foundation for a balanced meal. I often pair it with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad. For more insights into building nutritious meals, I appreciate the guidance from sources like BBC Good Food’s Slow Cooker Chicken Collection. And if you’re looking for another healthy, protein-packed dish, my cilantro lime chicken is always a bright and zesty option.
A Lighter Version of Slow Cooker Chicken Breast
If you’re watching your calorie intake or just prefer a lighter touch, this recipe is wonderfully adaptable. I often make a few simple swaps to create a version that feels just as indulgent but is a bit leaner. It’s all about keeping that tender, juicy texture we love.
First, you can easily reduce the oil for searing. Instead of a couple of tablespoons, I find that just a quick spray of olive oil cooking spray in the skillet works perfectly to get that golden crust without the extra fat. The moist shredded chicken over pasta is just as delicious.
Another great tweak is to swap the cornstarch slurry for a tablespoon of arrowroot powder mixed with water. It thickens the sauce beautifully without adding any extra calories. For a different flavor profile that’s still light, try my lemon chicken, which gets its brightness from fresh citrus instead of rich sauces.
And if you love the idea of a full, comforting meal but want to keep it lean, my chicken burgers are a fantastic alternative for a healthy weeknight dinner. They’re packed with flavor but much lighter than traditional beef burgers.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Cooking for loved ones with specific dietary needs is something I take to heart in my kitchen. It’s all about making small, thoughtful adjustments so everyone can gather around the table and enjoy a meal together. Whether you’re sugar-conscious or managing conditions like diabetes, this Slow Cooker Chicken recipe is a great starting point for a diabetic-friendly meal.
For a truly sugar-free version, the main thing to check is your chicken broth and tomato paste. Some brands add a touch of sugar, so I always opt for versions labeled “no sugar added.” This simple switch makes a big difference for glycemic control.
If you’re looking for a natural sugar alternative to balance the tomatoes’ acidity, a tiny pinch of xylitol can work wonders without spiking blood sugar. And remember, portion size is your friend! Serving this savory braised chicken with oregano over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta is a fantastic way to create a satisfying, low-glycemic plate.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chicken
This is my favorite part—bringing everything together at the table. I remember one chilly autumn evening when I served this exact dish to a table full of cousins who had driven in from out of town. The smell of the herby slow cooker chicken filled the whole house, and the moment I placed that big bowl of tender herbed chicken in tomato sauce on the table, everyone grew quiet, just soaking in the comfort of it all. It’s those simple, heartfelt meals that stick with you.
For a classic, family-style presentation, I love shredding the chicken right in the sauce and serving it over a big platter of wide egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes. The sauce soaks into everything so beautifully. A simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette on the side cuts through the richness perfectly.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, this easy one-pot chicken dinner is also fantastic stuffed into warm pita bread with a dollop of Greek yogurt or spooned over a baked sweet potato. For more inspiration on turning simple chicken into a feast, check out my BBQ chicken breasts. And if you’re craving more of that slow-cooked comfort, my slow cooker French onion chicken has a rich, caramelized flavor that’s absolutely unforgettable.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve learned that even the simplest slow cooker chicken recipe can have a few pitfalls. I want to share these with you so your meal turns out perfectly every time. Nothing breaks my heart more than someone telling me their chicken dried out or the flavors fell flat.
The biggest mistake I see is overcooking the chicken breast. It might seem counterintuitive, but even in a slow cooker, chicken breast can go from juicy to dry if left too long. I always set a timer for the minimum cooking time and check for doneness. For another reliable method, my easy grilled chicken breast gives you perfect results every time.
Another common error is skipping the searing step. I know it adds an extra pan to wash, but that quick brown on the chicken creates so much depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, at least pat your chicken dry and give it a quick spray of oil before adding it to the cooker.
Lastly, adding dairy too early can cause curdling. If you want to stir in cream or yogurt, always do it at the very end, just before serving. For more expert guidance on slow cooking techniques, I often turn to BBC Good Food’s Slow Cooker Chicken Collection. Remember these simple tips, and your tender herbed chicken in tomato sauce will be absolutely perfect.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chicken
I’ll never forget the time my cousin Sarah visited from Atlanta and asked for a container of this slow cooker chicken to take on her flight home. She said it was the best comfort food she’d had in years, and she wanted to enjoy it again when she got back to her busy life. That’s when I realized how important proper storage is for sharing food love.
This savory braised chicken with oregano stores beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavors actually deepen overnight. For freezing, I prefer glass containers with tight lids, and it keeps perfectly for up to 3 months.
When reheating, I always do it gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to bring back that saucy consistency. If you love having ready-made meals, my chicken casserole also freezes wonderfully. And for another freezer-friendly option, my chicken taco soup is always waiting in my freezer for busy nights.
Try This Slow Cooker Chicken Yourself
There’s something truly magical about coming home to a house filled with the aroma of cooking food. I remember one particularly hectic week when this slow cooker chicken recipe saved my sanity. I had parent-teacher conferences, a broken dishwasher, and a sick puppy, but dinner was quietly simmering away, filling our home with comfort when we needed it most.
I hope this easy one-pot chicken dinner becomes one of those reliable recipes you turn to again and again. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday suppers, or when you need to feed a crowd without stress. The moist shredded chicken over pasta has become a family favorite in our house, and I’d love for it to become one in yours too.
If you enjoy this cooking method, you might also love my slow cooker chicken stew or the slow cooker Italian beef soup that my Nonna taught me. For something different but equally comforting, try my Mexican sweet potato chicken soup or the sweet potato chicken soup recipe that’s always a hit during colder months.
And if you’re looking for more slow cooker inspiration, my collection of slow cooker recipes has plenty of ideas to keep your family well-fed with minimal effort. Nothing makes me happier than knowing my recipes are bringing comfort to your table too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put raw chicken into a slow cooker?
Absolutely! That’s one of the beautiful things about slow cooker chicken recipes. You can place raw chicken directly into the slow cooker, though I always recommend searing it first for extra flavor. The slow cooking process will safely cook the chicken through while keeping it incredibly tender.
How long does it take to cook chicken in a slow cooker?
For chicken breasts like in this recipe, I find 3-4 hours on low is perfect. They’re done when they reach 165°F internally and shred easily with forks. If you’re using thighs or a whole chicken, you might need 6-8 hours. Always check for doneness rather than relying solely on time.
More Cozy Chicken Dinners You’ll Love
If this slow cooker chicken spoke to your soul, here are more comforting recipes that feel like a warm hug.
Slow Cooker French Onion Chicken – Rich, caramelized onions create a deeply flavorful sauce that’s absolutely irresistible.
Classic Chicken Soup – The ultimate comfort food that soothes both body and spirit with every spoonful.
Lemon Chicken – Bright, zesty flavors that wake up your taste buds and feel wonderfully fresh.
Cilantro Lime Chicken – A vibrant, tangy dish that brings sunshine to your plate even on cloudy days.
BBQ Chicken Breasts – Sweet, smoky, and satisfying – perfect for when you’re craving backyard barbecue flavors.
Chicken Burgers – A lighter twist on burger night that doesn’t sacrifice any of the juicy, delicious satisfaction.
