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Homemade Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Slow Cooker Chicken: A Versatile and Easy Meal Base
Slow cooking chicken is a convenient and versatile method for preparing tender, flavorful meat that
can be used in a variety of dishes. By letting the chicken cook slowly over several hours, it becomes
incredibly tender and absorbs the flavors of the seasonings and any added ingredients. This recipe will
guide you through making a basic slow cooker chicken that can serve as the foundation for countless
meals such as tacos, salads, casseroles, and sandwiches.
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Ingredients:
Chicken Breasts or Thighs: 2 pounds, diced
Chicken Broth: 1 cup
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
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Salt: 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, for color and flavor)
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
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Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (optional, for added moisture and flavor)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Place the diced chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker. Ensure the pieces are evenly
distributed.
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Add the Seasonings:
Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped onion over the chicken. Add the salt, black pepper, paprika,
dried oregano, and dried thyme. Drizzle with olive oil if using.
Add the Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the seasoned chicken. The broth will help keep the chicken moist and
infuse it with additional flavor as it cooks.
Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
The exact cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness by ensuring
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the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Shred or Dice:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, you can shred it with two forks or leave it in diced pieces, depending
on how you plan to use it in your meals.
Serve or Store:
Use the slow-cooked chicken immediately in your favorite recipes, or allow it to cool and store it in an
airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions:
Tacos: Use the shredded chicken as a filling for tacos, adding toppings like lettuce, cheese, salsa, and
avocado.
Salads: Top a fresh green salad with the chicken, adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber,
and a light vinaigrette.
Casseroles: Incorporate the chicken into casseroles, combining it with vegetables, pasta, or rice, and a
creamy sauce.
Sandwiches: Make a hearty sandwich or wrap with the chicken, adding your favorite condiments and
veggies.
Nutritional Benefits:
Protein: Chicken is a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken provides essential nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which
support overall health.
Low Fat: Using chicken breasts keeps the meal lean, while chicken thighs add more flavor with a
slightly higher fat content.
Conclusion
Slow cooker chicken is an easy and versatile meal base that simplifies meal prep and offers endless
culinary possibilities. Whether you use it in tacos, salads, casseroles, or sandwiches, this tender and
flavorful chicken will enhance your dishes and save you time in the kitchen. Enjoy the convenience
and deliciousness of slow-cooked chicken in your favorite recipes!