30+ Mind-Blowing Things to Make with Crock Pot Chicken (That Will Change Your Dinner Game!)

Ever stared at chicken in your fridge and thought, “Not again…”? I’ve been there too many times! But here’s the good news – your trusty Crock Pot is about to become your new best friend for transforming that boring chicken into meals that’ll make your family think you’ve been slaving away all day.

As someone who’s tested literally hundreds of slow cooker recipes (my family has been very patient!), I’m sharing my ultimate collection of what to make with Crock Pot chicken. These recipes are game-changers that’ll save your weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor.

Why Crock Pot Chicken is Life-Changing

Before diving into recipes, let’s talk about why slow cooker chicken deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation:

• It’s practically impossible to mess up – even kitchen disasters like me can make perfect chicken every time
• Set it and forget it convenience – as Ree Drummond says, you can “throw everything in, turn it on, then go live your life until it’s done”
• The juiciest chicken ever – slow cooking breaks down proteins gently, giving you tender, fall-apart meat
• Budget-friendly meals – chicken thighs and breasts are affordable protein options
• Meal prep magic – make a big batch and transform it throughout the week

Now let’s get to the exciting part – all the incredible things you can make!

Shredded Chicken: The Ultimate Versatile Base

The simplest place to start is basic shredded chicken This is my go-to foundation recipe that can transform into dozens of meals

Basic Shredded Crock Pot Chicken

1. Place 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts in your slow cooker
2. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder
3. Add 1 cup chicken broth
4. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours
5. Shred with two forks and use in EVERYTHING

What can you do with this basic shredded chicken? The possibilities are endless:

• Tacos & Mexican Magic: chicken tacos, enchiladas, burritos, taco salads
• Comfort Food Classics: chicken noodle soup, pot pie filling, chicken and dumplings
• Quick Lunches: buffalo chicken wraps, chicken salad, loaded nachos
• Global Flavors: curry, stir-fry, teriyaki bowls

10 Mouth-Watering Crock Pot Chicken Recipes You Must Try

Let’s dive into some specific recipes that’ll make you look like a kitchen genius (even when your slow cooker did all the work)

1. Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

This is my family’s #1 most requested meal! The chicken turns out incredibly tender and is perfect for Taco Tuesday.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup salsa
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:
Just toss everything in your Crock Pot, cook on low for 6-8 hours, shred, and serve with your favorite toppings. The meat becomes so flavorful it’ll rival your favorite taco joint!

2. Crock Pot BBQ Chicken

This might be the easiest recipe ever, but the results taste like you spent hours babysitting a grill

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken (breasts or thighs)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:
Mix sauce ingredients, pour over chicken, and cook on low 6-7 hours. Shred and serve on buns for sandwiches, over rice, or in wraps.

3. Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings

This comfort food classic becomes effortless with your Crock Pot. The dumplings cook right in the same pot!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
• 2 cans cream of chicken soup
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tsp herbs (thyme or poultry seasoning)
• 1 can refrigerated biscuits, cut into quarters

Instructions:
Add everything except biscuits to your slow cooker. Cook on low 6 hours. Add biscuit pieces on top, cook another hour until they’re fluffy. Pure comfort in a bowl!

4. Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo

I was skeptical about pasta in a slow cooker, but this recipe changed my mind. It’s creamy, rich, and completely fuss-free.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta (added later)

Instructions:
Cook everything except pasta and parmesan on low for 5-6 hours. In the last 30 minutes, add broken fettuccine and parmesan. Stir occasionally until pasta is tender.

5. Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

This sticky-sweet chicken rivals any takeout and is a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• Red pepper flakes to taste

Instructions:
Mix sauce ingredients, pour over chicken. Cook on low 4-5 hours. For thicker sauce, remove chicken and whisk 2 tbsp cornstarch into sauce, then return chicken.

6. Buffalo Chicken Dip

This is my go-to for game days and parties. People literally hover around this dip!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded crock pot chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in slow cooker. Heat on low for 1-2 hours until bubbly and cheeses are melted. Serve with chips, celery, or pretzel bites.

7. Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili

On cold nights, nothing beats this creamy, slightly spicy chili. It’s even better the next day!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
• 2 cans white beans
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cans green chilies
• 1 tsp cumin, oregano, chili powder
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 8 oz cream cheese (added at end)

Instructions:
Combine everything except cream cheese. Cook on low 6-7 hours. Remove chicken, shred, return to pot with cream cheese. Stir until melted and serve with toppings.

8. Crock Pot Chicken Cacciatore

This Italian classic becomes weekend-easy with your slow cooker!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken thighs
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp Italian herbs
• 1/2 cup olives (optional)

Instructions:
Layer vegetables on bottom, top with chicken and sauces. Cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours. Serve over pasta or polenta.

9. Salsa Verde Chicken

With just THREE ingredients, this might be the easiest recipe that still delivers huge flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breasts
• 16 oz jar salsa verde
• 1 packet taco seasoning

Instructions:
Dump everything in your Crock Pot. Cook on low 6-7 hours. Shred and use for tacos, nachos, burrito bowls, or over rice.

10. Butter Chicken

Yes, you can make amazing Indian food in your slow cooker! This butter chicken is restaurant-quality.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp garam masala
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (added at end)
• 2 tbsp butter (added at end)

Instructions:
Combine everything except cream and butter. Cook on low 6 hours. Stir in cream and butter before serving. Garnish with cilantro.

Beyond Basic: Creative Crock Pot Chicken Ideas

Want to think outside the box? Here are some of my more unique slow cooker chicken creations:

• Chicken Lettuce Cups: Slow cook chicken with Asian flavors, then spoon into lettuce leaves
• Chicken Marsala: Yes, this fancy restaurant dish works beautifully in a slow cooker
• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: Combine two comfort foods in one amazing dish
• Chicken Pumpkin Curry: Perfect fall flavors with a Thai twist
• Sweet and Sour Chicken: Skip the takeout and make this classic at home

Tips for Crock Pot Chicken Success

After years of experimenting, I’ve learned some key tips:

1. Don’t overcook chicken breasts – they can dry out, even in a slow cooker. Thighs are more forgiving
2. For more flavor, brown chicken first – not necessary, but gives deeper flavor
3. Add dairy at the end – milk, cream, and cheese can separate if cooked too long
4. Use frozen veggies at the end – they’ll overcook otherwise
5. Don’t open the lid! – Every peek extends cooking time by 20 minutes

How to Store and Repurpose Leftover Crock Pot Chicken

One of the best things about slow cooker chicken is the leftovers! Here’s how I handle them:

• Refrigerate for 3-4 days in airtight containers
• Freeze shredded or diced chicken in 1-cup portions for up to 3 months
• Repurpose leftovers into completely different meals (chicken salad from yesterday’s BBQ chicken, for example)

What Sides Go Best with Crock Pot Chicken?

Depending on your chicken recipe, here are some perfect pairings:

• Rice or grains: Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for low-carb
• Vegetables: Roasted green beans, herb roasted carrots, or air fryer broccoli
• Potatoes: Garlic mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Fresh sides: Broccoli salad or quinoa salad with kale
• Bread: Dinner rolls, cornbread, or naan (perfect with butter chicken!)

Your Crock Pot Chicken Questions Answered

Q: Can I put frozen chicken in a Crock Pot?
A: No! This is a food safety issue. Always thaw chicken completely before slow cooking.

Q: How long does chicken cook in a Crock Pot?
A: Generally 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Chicken is done at 165°F.

Q: Is it safe to leave my Crock Pot on all day?
A: Yes! That’s exactly what slow cookers are designed for. You can set it in the morning and come home to dinner.

Q: Chicken breasts or thighs?
A: Both work great! Breasts are leaner but can dry out. Thighs have more flavor and stay juicier.

Ready to Transform Your Weeknight Dinners?

With these Crock Pot chicken recipes in your arsenal, you’ll never have to wonder what to make for dinner again. The beauty is in the simplicity – most require just a few minutes of prep before your slow cooker does the rest.

I’d love to hear which recipe you try first! My personal favorite is the salsa verde chicken – it’s ridiculously easy but tastes like I spent hours in the kitchen.

Happy slow cooking!

P.S. Don’t forget to save this article for later – I promise these recipes will become regulars in your meal rotation!

Yes, you can safely put raw chicken in a slow cooker because the long cooking time and enclosed heat create enough steam to cook the meat thoroughly and kill any bacteria. Place the raw chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker, add other ingredients, cover, and cook on low for about 4-5 hours or high for 2.5-3 hours.