Crockpot Shredded Chicken for Meal Prep

Name: Crockpot Shredded Chicken for Meal Prep
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 240 min
Ingredients: 4 lbs chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, about 4-5 large); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup chicken stock (homemade or store bought)

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By Katie

March 25, 2025

Ingredients Needed for Crockpot Shredded Chicken for Meal Prep

You don’t need much to make easy chicken recipes that work for any healthy meal plans. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless skinless chicken breasts – A lot of chicken breasts means plenty of shredded goodness.
Chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist while adding richness. Water can work, but chicken broth gives the best results.
Seasonings– salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are different ways to tweak this recipe:

Use different cuts – Swap in boneless skinless chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
Change the seasonings – Try Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, or taco seasoning.
Add citrus – A splash of lime juice brightens up the flavors.
Spicy twist – Add cayenne or chili powder for heat.
Go sweet & savory – Make teriyaki chicken by adding soy sauce and honey.
Herb it up – Fresh rosemary or thyme makes a big difference.
Olive oil – If you want even juicy chicken breasts, a drizzle helps keep them moist.

Can You Cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! To use an Instant Pot, add chicken broth, seasonings, and cook on high pressure for 10-15 minutes. Quick release the pressure and shred.

How to Make Crockpot Shredded Chicken

For full recipe details, including ingredient measurements see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. Here’s how to throw this recipe together in the crock pot.

1. Season

Add chicken breasts to the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, and spices.

Two raw chicken breasts in a gray round baking dish on a light countertop, with a gray cloth and a pepper grinder nearby.

Raw chicken breasts being seasoned with spices in a slow cooker.

2. Cook

Pour in chicken broth and cook on high heat for 3-4 hours or low for 6 hours.

Two raw chicken breasts in a pot are being seasoned with a stream of yellow liquid, possibly broth or oil, being poured over them.

Raw chicken marinating with spices in a gray slow cooker.

3. Shred

Once internal temperature reaches 165° F, remove chicken and shred using 2 forks or by placing in stand mixer with whisk attachment. Use as desired.

Sliced meat being added to a slow cooker containing broth or sauce.

Hands using forks to shred cooked chicken on a wooden cutting board.

What’s the Best Way to Use Shredded Chicken?

There are a variety of ways to use shredded chicken! Here are a few ideas:

Chicken Salad Sandwich
Cheese Tortellini with Chicken
Chicken Flautas
Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas
Added to tacos, burritos, wraps or stir-fry
Mixed with BBQ sauce for sandwiches

Storage Directions for Shredded Chicken

Store shredded chicken in an airtight container in refrigerator for 3-4 days or in freezer for up to 4 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Shredded cooked chicken piled on a wooden board.

More Meal Prep Recipes to Try!

If you’re looking for a great way to simplify dinner time, this shredded chicken recipe is your secret weapon. It’s the best way to make chicken meal prep recipes that work for any busy week!

If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.