Life moves fast—between school drop-offs, work deadlines, and endless to-do lists, who has time to slave over the stove? That’s where the trusty crockpot comes in, turning simple ingredients into hearty, hands-off meals with minimal effort. And when it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing dinners, chicken is the ultimate hero—versatile, budget-friendly, and always satisfying.
Whether you’re juggling a packed schedule or just craving a cozy, no-fuss Sunday supper, these 14 crockpot chicken recipes are here to save the day. Imagine coming home to tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken smothered in creamy mushroom sauce, or zesty BBQ pulled chicken piled high on buns. Picture the aroma of garlic and herbs filling your kitchen as a honey-mustard drumstick dinner cooks itself, or the comfort of a rich, cheesy chicken tortilla soup simmering while you relax. From classic comfort food to globally inspired flavors, these recipes are designed for real life—quick prep, simple ingredients, and maximum flavor.
We’ve included everything from dump-and-go meals for chaotic weeknights to slow-braised dishes that taste like you spent hours cooking (even though you didn’t). Plus, tips on keeping chicken juicy, seasoning like a pro, and repurposing leftovers into next-day lunches. So dust off that crockpot, grab a few pantry staples, and let these recipes do the heavy lifting. Dinner just got a whole lot easier—and tastier.
Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa
These chicken tacos are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy, tender chicken pairs perfectly with fresh ingredients, creating a delightful dish that everyone in the family will love. They’re simple to make, making them an excellent choice for busy nights or laid-back weekends.
With a zesty salsa loaded with tomatoes, onions, and avocado, these tacos burst with freshness in every bite. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch that keeps mealtime fun.
BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
BBQ chicken sandwiches are a delicious and easy meal perfect for busy families. With tender shredded chicken coated in sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to prepare, allowing you to toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
The combination of smoky barbecue flavor and crunchy coleslaw makes these sandwiches a delightful treat. Serve them on soft buns, and you’ll have a meal that’s not only tasty but also quick to assemble on any lazy Sunday.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the barbecue sauce and chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
- Serve the BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw mix and ranch dressing if desired.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a dreamy dish that brings comfort to the dinner table with its rich flavors and tender chicken. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy families looking to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of creamy sauce, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates a dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. Paired with pasta or rice, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth. Add Italian seasoning and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coat it in the creamy sauce, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This creamy garlic parmesan chicken is delicious over pasta or rice!
Buffalo Chicken Dip
This Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy delight that brings a burst of flavor to your gatherings. It’s simple to whip up and perfect for busy families or lazy Sundays, making it a go-to dish for game days and parties alike!
The combination of shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and melted cheese creates a savory dip that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or celery sticks. Your family will love the zesty kick in every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, and cheddar cheese until well blended.
- Crockpot Time: Transfer the mixture to a crockpot and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve: Once done, stir the dip and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm with tortilla chips or veggies for dipping!
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
This Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a hit for families and friends alike. The tender, juicy chicken thighs are coated in a delicious honey garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the crockpot, leaving you with a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Easy to prepare, this dish requires minimal effort. Simply mix the sauce ingredients, place them over the chicken, and let the slow cooker work its magic. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, providing a satisfying meal with little cleanup.
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger until combined.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them in the crockpot.
- Add Sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: If desired, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Add to the crockpot 30 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy over cooked rice or with steamed vegetables.
Lemon Herb Chicken with Veggies
Lemon Herb Chicken with Veggies is a bright and flavorful dish that brings a fresh taste to your dinner table. The tender chicken, infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, pairs perfectly with vibrant veggies. This recipe is not only delicious but also super easy to make, making it ideal for busy families or lazy Sundays.
Simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic. By dinnertime, you’ll have a wholesome, hearty meal that’s full of nutrients and flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add Veggies: Layer the mixed vegetables on top of the chicken.
- Season: In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and veggies.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, garnish with fresh herbs before serving hot.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any family meal. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and vibrant veggies, it’s a delicious one-pot wonder that’s easy to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this recipe requires minimal prep and lets your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day.
The flavors meld beautifully, creating a creamy, savory dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, making it both practical and tasty!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine the cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and mixed vegetables.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- If using cheese, sprinkle it on top in the last 30 minutes of cooking and cover until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy your hearty meal!
Italian Chicken and Peppers
This Italian Chicken and Peppers recipe is a simple and delicious way to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table. The combination of juicy chicken breasts, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic herbs makes it a satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also cooks beautifully in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. This dish is perfect for busy families or lazy Sundays when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the Vegetables: Layer the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Italian chicken with rice, pasta, or crusty bread!
Chicken and Dumplings Comfort Bowl
Chicken and dumplings are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a busy Sunday. This dish combines tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy broth with fluffy dumplings that soak up all that delicious flavor. It’s simple to make and requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for families on the go.
The warmth of the chicken, paired with the soft dumplings, creates a delightful meal that feels like a warm hug. You’ll love how easy it is to throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you. Gather your family around the table for a bowl of this tasty, hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream.
- Make the Dumplings: In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter and milk until just mixed. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter on top of the chicken mixture.
- Finish Cooking: Cover and cook on high for another 30-40 minutes, until dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Serve: Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and enjoy!
Chicken Chili with Beans
This Chicken Chili with Beans is a cozy, hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any busy family’s table. Packed with tender chicken, various beans, and a mix of spices, it offers a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s super simple to make, allowing you to set it and forget it!
Perfect for lazy Sundays or hectic weeknights, this chili is not only satisfying but also customizable. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, making it a flexible option for the whole family. Serve it up with some cheese and fresh cilantro on top for a delicious finish!
Teriyaki Chicken with Broccoli
Teriyaki Chicken with Broccoli is an easy and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of the classic Japanese glaze to your home. The chicken becomes tender as it cooks slowly in the crockpot, soaking up the savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color. This dish is not only tasty but also simple to make, perfect for busy families or lazy Sundays.
With minimal prep, you can throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work. Serve this dish over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Add the teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for about 4-5 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the crockpot. Cover and cook until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
- Serve the teriyaki chicken over cooked rice or noodles, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Sweet and sour chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances tangy and sweet flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it a staple in many households. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also allows for easy customization based on your family’s preferences. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!
The combination of juicy chicken pieces, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious sweet and sour sauce creates a satisfying dish that’s ideal for busy nights or lazy Sundays. Plus, cooking it in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other activities.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (canned or fresh)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine the chicken, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken and veggies.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Serve the sweet and sour chicken over cooked rice and enjoy!
Coconut Curry Chicken
Coconut Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to any family dinner. The creamy coconut milk blends perfectly with aromatic spices, creating a fragrant sauce that coats tender chicken pieces and colorful vegetables. This dish has a mild heat, making it a hit with both kids and adults, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare in a crockpot.
Perfect for busy families, you can simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Serve it over fluffy rice, and you have a comforting meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine chicken pieces, coconut milk, curry powder, ginger, garlic powder, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chopped bell pepper, onion, and cubed butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve over cooked rice for a complete meal.
Mediterranean Chicken with Olives
This Mediterranean Chicken with Olives is a delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, briny olives, and fresh herbs creates a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s perfect for busy families looking for an easy, wholesome dinner option.
The slow-cooking method ensures the chicken remains juicy while absorbing all the delicious spices and aromas. This recipe is simple to make, making it a great choice for lazy Sundays or hectic weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup green olives, pitted
- 1 cup black olives, pitted
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken on both sides for about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a crockpot, add the browned chicken, sliced onion, minced garlic, olives, cherry tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and chicken broth.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the chicken with the olive and tomato mixture over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Final Thoughts
Busy days don’t have to mean boring meals or takeout guilt. With these crockpot chicken recipes, you can enjoy home-cooked comfort without the hassle. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a lazy Sunday feast, these dishes deliver big flavor with little effort. So go ahead—set it, forget it, and savor the magic of a meal that practically cooks itself. Your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you!