15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (2024)

  • Recipes By Course
  • Dinner
  • Chicken Mains

Pull out your slow cooker and make one of these easy and delicious meals.

By

Cathy Jacobs

15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (1)

Cathy Jacobs

A freelance journalist and avid home cook, Cathy Jacobs has more than 10 years of food writing experience, with a focus on curating approachable menus and recipe collections.

Learn about The Spruce Eats'Editorial Process

Updated on 02/8/24

Trending Videos

15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (2)

As much as we love our Instant Pots and air fryers, nothing can replace the slow cooker when it comes to easy, cozy dinners. Add one of the most popular dinner proteins to your Crockpot—or whatever brand of slow cooker you prefer—and weekday meals are a breeze.

Each of these fuss-free and delicious slow-cooker chicken dinners requires just tossing a few simple ingredients into the slow cooker and letting dinner bubble away to perfection while you get on with other things.

  • 01 of 15

    Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (3)

    There's nothing quite like a bowl of classic chicken noodle soup to warm you up on a chilly day or to make you feel better when you have a cold. In this easy recipe, everything but the noodles goes into the slow cooker at the same time, which means prep is as simple as chopping up some carrots, celery, and parsley. After that, all you have to do is add the noodles towards the end of the cook time, then serve it up and enjoy.

    Get the Recipe

  • 02 of 15

    Lazy Crock Pot Chicken with Mushrooms

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (4)

    Why not be lazy when you can do so and turn out a delicious dinner by simply adding chicken breasts and a few convenience ingredients like cream of mushroom soup and canned sliced mushrooms to your slow cooker? Serve the chicken and saucy mushrooms over rice or mashed potatoes for a creamy, comforting dinner.

    Get the Recipe

  • 03 of 15

    Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (5)

    Homey crockpot chicken and dumplings has big grandma energy but without the need to hover over a hot stove for hours. Simply let the chicken and veggies cook all day, for tender, saucy results. You'll drop in an easy dough mixture near the end of cooking for perfectly fluffy dumplings on top.

    Get the Recipe

  • 04 of 15

    Crock Pot Chicken Supreme

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (6)

    The term "supreme" in this recipe comes from the Frenchsuprêmede volaille, which refers to chicken breasts—a top cut of protein. But this combo of boneless breasts, a creamy sauce, bacon, mushrooms, and cheese is also supremely delicious. Plus, this slow cooker chicken feels awfully fancy for something that requires just 15 minutes of active prep time.

    Get the Recipe

    The Best Slow Cookers for Set-It-and-Forget-It Soups and Stews

    Continue to 5 of 15 below.

  • 05 of 15

    Crockpot Creamy Chicken and Veggies

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (7)

    This creamy chicken and veggies recipe could hardly be easier. Just load up the appliance with chopped potatoes, carrots, and onions, lay chicken on top, and leave it to cook all day long. Right before serving, add the sauce ingredients, and cook to heat through. It also freezes well for a make-ahead family meal.

    Get the Recipe

  • 06 of 15

    Hearty Slow Cooker Chicken Chili

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (8)

    This hearty chicken and vegetable chili is a fabulous one-dish meal that's loaded with chicken, two kinds of beans, and plenty of veggies, including tomatoes, corn, onions, and bell peppers. Top bowls with shredded cheddar cheese or a scoop of sour cream for added creaminess and set out bottles of hot sauce or some salsa for those who like a little more of a kick.

    Get the Recipe

  • 07 of 15

    Crock Pot Chicken Chow Mein

    If your slow cooker has a sauté function, use it to brown the chicken before you add the other ingredients to this simple chow mein-inspired dish that gets plenty of flavor from carrots, green onions, celery, ground ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. While the term chow mein refers specifically to stir-fried noodles, the chicken and veggie mixture is just as tasty served over rice.

    Get the Recipe

  • 08 of 15

    Slow Cooker Chicken Paprika with Dumplings

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (10)

    Sour cream and sweet Hungarian paprika make this simple paprika chicken with dumplings rich and flavorful. Pillowy three-ingredient drop dumplings complete this tasty dish. Add a fresh green salad or some steamed or roasted vegetables for an easy dinner.

    Get the Recipe

    Continue to 9 of 15 below.

  • 09 of 15

    Crock Pot Chicken Enchilada Casserole

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (11)

    Inspired by enchiladas, this easy slow cooker chicken casserole includes layers of cut-up tortillas, shredded or chopped chicken, cheese, ripe olives, and chopped onions. The recipe includes an enchilada sauce, but you can use store-bought enchilada sauce instead to make it even easier. Serve the casserole with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole and let everyone top their own portions.

    Get the Recipe

  • 10 of 15

    Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (12)

    You don't need a grill to produce the tender, juicy barbecue chicken of your dreams. All you need are chicken, onions, and bottled or homemade BBQ sauce (a great recipe is included), and your slow cooker. Add corn on the cob, potato salad or macaroni salad, and some watermelon and your backyard feast is complete.

    Get the Recipe

  • 11 of 15

    Crockpot Pizza Chicken

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (13)

    What is pizza chicken, you may ask? A protein-rich vehicle for your favorite pizza flavors: tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni. The chicken is cooked with the pepperoni, which infuses the meat with flavor. Cheese is sprinkled on top at the last minute and left just long enough to melt. Can't forget the iconic pizza cheese pull!

    Get the Recipe

  • 12 of 15

    Crockpot Chicken and Sweet Potatoes

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (14)

    This wholesome crockpot chicken and sweet potatoes always hits the spot on chilly or rainy days. Loosely inspired by Indian cuisine, the chicken is cooked in a sweet, spicy, and super-flavorful sauce that includes ginger, curry powder, and peach preserves. Serve it over rice or with naan to complete the meal.

    Get the Recipe

    Continue to 13 of 15 below.

  • 13 of 15

    Crock Pot Portuguese Chicken

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (15)

    Spicy pork sausage, chicken, canned tomatoes, garlic, artichoke hearts, and olives are combined in this bold, saucy slow cooker Portuguese-inspired chicken. For this dish, use Spanish or Portuguese chorizo (chouriço), which is different from Mexican chorizo. This is an all-in-one meal, though rice and crusty bread are nice additions.

    Get the Recipe

  • 14 of 15

    2-Ingredient Crock Pot Barbecued Chicken Legs

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (16)

    This BBQ chicken recipe really couldn't be easier: Simply nestle chicken legs into the slow cooker with some store-bought or homemade barbecue sauce and let it cook while you get on with your day. Serve the chicken with coleslaw, potato salad, or any of your other favorite barbecue sides.

    Get the Recipe

  • 15 of 15

    Easy 2-Ingredient Salsa Crockpot Chicken

    15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (17)

    You quite literally can't make it much easier than this 2-ingredient salsa chicken (it's more effort to order takeout!). Chicken breasts and store-bought salsa go into the slow cooker and perfectly seasoned, saucy chicken comes out. If you want to dress it up a little more, throw in a sliced onion and a couple sliced bell peppers or shred some Monterey Jack and sprinkle it on top to melt. Serve the chicken with tortillas or tostadas, and use leftovers as a clutch nacho starter.

    Get the Recipe

29 Easy and Satisfying Crockpot Dinners

  • Chicken Mains
  • Chicken Recipes
  • Cooking for Kids
  • Slow Cooker Recipes
15 Easy Crockpot Chicken Recipes to Make for Dinner Tonight (2024)

FAQs

Is it OK to put raw chicken in slow cooker? ›

Yes, you most certainly can cook raw meat in the slow cooker! You put it in “cold”, with whatever liquid your recipe calls for, turn it on either “low” or “high” depending on your recipe (I usually start it on “high” for a couple hours, then turn it to “low”), and in 6–7–8 hours, it's now COOKED meat!

Can I put frozen chicken in the crockpot? ›

It is best to thaw meat or poultry before putting it into a slow cooker. Frozen pieces will take longer to reach a safe internal temperature and could possibly result in foodborne illness. Frozen or partially frozen foods can also cool everything else in the slow cooker.

How long does it take for chicken to cook in the crockpot? ›

Sprinkle the chicken breasts with plenty of salt and pepper. Cover your crock pot and cook chicken breasts on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Chicken is done when the internal temp reaches 165 degrees F. Use chicken in your favorite recipes.

Can I leave chicken in crockpot for 12 hours? ›

Most slow cooker meals take 8-12 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high, but there are also recipes for slow-cooked meat that take up to 24 hours. If you want to avoid overcooking your dish, follow the given guidelines as closely as possible.

Does chicken need to be covered in liquid in crockpot? ›

Water or liquid is necessary to create steam. When cooking meat or poultry, the water or liquid level should cover the ingredients to ensure effective heat transfer throughout the crock. Some manufacturers of slow cookers recommend adding liquid to fill the stoneware 1/2 to 3/4 full.

What foods should not go in a slow cooker? ›

10 Foods You Should Never Make in a Slow Cooker
  • Raw Meat.
  • Seafood.
  • Pasta.
  • Rice.
  • Delicate Vegetables.
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts.
  • Dairy.
  • Wine and Other Liquor.
Jan 19, 2024

Why do they call it crack chicken? ›

Lansing, Michigan is home for the Crack Chicken. A great seasoning for all your favorite foods. Started in 2003, customers tried our famous chicken and came back for more. Their addiction to this delicious taste made them call it Crack Chicken, and that's how the name started, and cracked the food industry world.

Can you put frozen chicken in the crockpot for 4 hours? ›

When cooking frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a slow cooker on the high setting, it typically takes around 4 to 6 hours. Slow cookers vary in temperature, so it's essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How much longer does frozen chicken take in the crockpot? ›

"Sounds hard to believe, but it is possible to put a whole frozen chicken in the crock pot and have dinner in about 7-8 hours.

Is it better to cook crockpot chicken on high or low? ›

We found that the only way to cook chicken (and turkey) in a slow cooker is on the low setting and for a relatively short amount of time.

Why is my chicken tough after cooking in crockpot? ›

In addition, chicken breast has less fat and can become dry (chewy or rubbery) if cooked for too long. Without moisture, the protein fibers in the chicken become elastic.

Should I flip chicken in slow cooker? ›

Should you flip the chicken in the slow cooker? No, all you need to do is add all the ingredients into the slow cooker, cover and cook. Chicken is such a delicious, versatile and healthy option and there are a variety of ways to cook it.

Is 4 hours on high the same as 8 hours on low? ›

The difference between "High" and "Low" on slow cookers seems to differ with every brand and model. One thing that is consistent, though, is that food takes seven to eight hours to reach a simmer point (around 210°) on low; versus three to four hours on high.

Is it OK to leave chicken in crockpot on warm overnight? ›

It is not recommended to keep food warm in a slow cooker overnight, even if you turn it off, for several reasons: Bacterial Growth: Bacteria multiply rapidly at temperatures between 40°F (4.4°C) and 140°F (60°C).

Is 8 hours too long to slow cook chicken? ›

You're going to compromise the texture of chicken a bit when you cook it for 8 hours in the slowcooker. It's going to be super tender, but not “sliceable”, so use this to your advantage and shred the meat using two forks and toss it with the cooking liquid.

Does chicken need to be cooked before slow cooker? ›

Chicken breast fillets can be placed directly into the slow cooker, but to create richer, deeper flavours and better visual appeal, first sear the chicken breast in a hot pan over medium-high heat on each side for 1-2 minutes.

Why can't you put raw meat in a slow cooker? ›

Raw meat

A crockpot's gentle heat means meat will never get a chance to brown, but it's the golden colour from frying that gives it depth of flavour. If you don't want your stew to taste bland, brown the meat first, then put it in the slow cooker.

Do you have to brown chicken before putting it in a slow cooker? ›

You do not need to brown meat before you place it into the slow cooker. By browning meat, you will cause the meat to intensify the flavor. That will make the meat taste so much better. By adding onions, carrots & celery, that will also help to flavor the meat taste.

Is it OK to cook vegetables with raw chicken? ›

Yes, if two raw foods touch that will be cooked to the recommended temperature, the foods will be safe.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Tuan Roob DDS

Last Updated:

Views: 5849

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (62 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Tuan Roob DDS

Birthday: 1999-11-20

Address: Suite 592 642 Pfannerstill Island, South Keila, LA 74970-3076

Phone: +9617721773649

Job: Marketing Producer

Hobby: Skydiving, Flag Football, Knitting, Running, Lego building, Hunting, Juggling

Introduction: My name is Tuan Roob DDS, I am a friendly, good, energetic, faithful, fantastic, gentle, enchanting person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.