Summer is the season for sunshine, relaxation, and easy meals that don’t leave you stuck in a hot kitchen. When the days are long and the temperatures climb, the last thing anyone wants is to be hovering over a stove or oven. That’s where your slow cooker becomes the ultimate kitchen hero—doing the work for you while you soak up the season. And when it comes to light, flavorful meals that satisfy without weighing you down, chicken is the perfect canvas.
This handpicked collection of 13 summer chicken slow cooker recipes is all about keeping things effortless, fresh, and downright delicious. From zesty lemon herb chicken and BBQ pulled sandwiches to tropical-inspired dishes and garden-fresh tomato sauces, each recipe is designed to bring bold summer flavor with minimal prep. Whether you’re feeding the family after a beach day, packing a picnic, or just want to keep dinner low-effort during a busy week, these slow cooker recipes have you covered.
What makes these recipes ideal for summer isn’t just their ease—it’s how well they embrace the season’s lighter vibe. With ingredients like fresh herbs, citrus, and seasonal veggies, you’ll find meals that feel satisfying yet refreshingly simple. Plus, the slow cooker helps keep your kitchen cool while tenderizing chicken to perfection—juicy, flavorful, and always ready when you are.
So put your feet up, pour something cold, and let these slow cooker chicken recipes make dinnertime the easiest (and tastiest) part of your day.
Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Zucchini is perfect for those lazy summer evenings. It brings together juicy chicken breasts and fresh zucchini, all bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s simply irresistible.
With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, light dinner that requires little effort. The savory notes from the garlic complement the tender chicken, while the zucchini adds a nice crunch, making this meal not only tasty but also refreshing!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Make the Sauce: In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Zucchini: In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini and the remaining butter. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until tender.
- Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Honey Mustard BBQ Chicken
Honey Mustard BBQ Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, making it a perfect choice for summer meals. This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. With juicy chicken cooked to perfection in your slow cooker, you’ll have a satisfying meal without any fuss.
The combination of honey and mustard creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully as the chicken cooks, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. It’s a great dish for lazy summer days when you want something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Brown the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs, skin side down, for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Slow Cook: Transfer the chicken to a slow cooker and pour the honey mustard mixture over the top. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Once done, serve the chicken with your favorite sides, like corn on the cob or coleslaw, for a refreshing summer meal.
Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes
This Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. It’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavors from ripe tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs. Plus, the slow-cooker method makes it easy to whip up, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The tender chicken breasts soak up all the savory goodness from the ingredients, creating a satisfying dish that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple salad. It’s ideal for those lazy days when you want something delicious yet uncomplicated.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mixed olives (black and green)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil.
- Add Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom. Layer the cherry tomatoes, olives, onion, and garlic on top. Sprinkle with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle lemon juice over everything.
- 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 parsley before serving. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious juices.
Coconut Curry Chicken
Coconut Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy coconut sauce, infused with aromatic spices. It’s an easy meal to prepare in a slow cooker, making it perfect for lazy summer days.
The flavors are rich yet balanced, with notes of sweetness from the coconut and warmth from the curry spices. This recipe is simple enough for beginners, and the slow cooking allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while absorbing all the delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together coconut milk, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken in the sauce with two forks. Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus
Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus is a perfect summer dish that brings bright flavors to your table with minimal effort. The zesty lemon combined with fresh herbs creates a delightful taste that pairs wonderfully with tender asparagus. It’s simple to make, making it ideal for those lazy days when you want a light dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also keeps your cooking clean and efficient. Using a slow cooker, the chicken becomes juicy and flavorful while the asparagus maintains its crispness. Gather your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and enjoy a hassle-free meal!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Drizzle with olive oil and place in the slow cooker.
- Add Lemon and Garlic: Top the chicken with minced garlic and lemon slices. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Add Asparagus: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the trimmed asparagus to the slow cooker. Cover and continue to cook until the asparagus is bright green and tender.
- Serve: Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus!
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Green Beans
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Green Beans is a bright and zesty dish that’s perfect for lazy summer evenings. Tender chicken pairs wonderfully with crisp green beans, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The combination of lemon and garlic gives it a fresh taste, making it feel light and satisfying.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also requires minimal prep work, letting your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. Just toss everything in, let it simmer, and voila! You have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a slow cooker, place the chicken thighs at the bottom. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Add the Aromatics: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken, then add the lemon slices on top.
- Incorporate the Green Beans: Layer the trimmed green beans over the chicken. Drizzle with olive oil and pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the chicken alongside the green beans, ensuring to drizzle some of the cooking juices over for extra flavor.
Tropical Pineapple Chicken
This Tropical Pineapple Chicken recipe brings a burst of sweetness and tanginess to your dinner table. It’s a vibrant dish featuring tender chicken cooked with juicy pineapple, perfect for those lazy summer evenings. With a delightful balance of flavors, it’s a tasty way to celebrate the season.
Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. Just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. You’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort, making it ideal for a light dinner after a long day.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can (20 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the crushed pineapple (with juice), BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Add Vegetables: Top the chicken with the diced red bell pepper and onion.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce. Serve over rice or with a side of fresh salad.
Salsa Verde Chicken Tacos
Salsa verde chicken tacos are a fresh and vibrant dish that brings the taste of summer right to your table. With tender, slow-cooked chicken infused with zesty salsa verde, every bite is bursting with flavor. These tacos are easy to prepare, making them perfect for lazy afternoons or busy weeknights.
The combination of tangy salsa, savory chicken, and fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro creates a delightful meal that everyone will love. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings, making them a fun option for gatherings or simple dinners at home.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Pour salsa verde over the chicken and sprinkle with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and can be shredded easily.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the salsa verde in the cooker.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Assemble the tacos by adding shredded chicken, diced avocado, chopped onion, and cilantro to each tortilla. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fresh and zesty option for summer dinners. These wraps combine tender, slow-cooked chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce with crisp lettuce leaves, creating a delightful crunch in every bite. Perfect for those lazy days, this recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor, making it a quick way to satisfy your cravings without too much effort.
Serve these wraps with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, adding an extra layer of creaminess that balances the spice. They’re light, healthy, and sure to impress anyone at the dinner table!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 head of iceberg or romaine lettuce, leaves separated
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced green onions
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, and olive oil. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the slow cooker to fully coat it.
- Assemble the Wraps: Take a lettuce leaf and fill it with a portion of the buffalo chicken. Top with diced celery and green onions.
- Serve: Drizzle your choice of dressing on top and enjoy immediately!
Teriyaki Chicken with Bell Peppers
Teriyaki Chicken with Bell Peppers is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant bell peppers, all coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. This recipe is a breeze to make, making it perfect for those lazy summer days when you want something light yet satisfying.
The flavors are balanced beautifully, with the natural sweetness of the sauce complementing the crunch of the peppers. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also cooks effortlessly in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In the slow cooker, add the chicken thighs, teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger. Stir to coat the chicken well.
- Add the Peppers: Top the chicken mixture with the sliced red and yellow bell peppers.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
- Serve: Once done, shred the chicken in the sauce and stir in chopped green onions. Serve over cooked rice for a delicious meal.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish full of vibrant flavors and a creamy texture that makes it perfect for summer dinners. This recipe combines tender chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich cream sauce, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make.
The taste is a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet, with a hint of brightness from the lemon. It’s a fantastic option for those lazy summer days when you want something light but satisfying. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy your time without fussing over the stove!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Arrange the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a bowl, mix the heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Add the lemon slices and fresh spinach on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy over pasta or with crusty bread!
Chipotle Lime Chicken Fajitas
Chipotle Lime Chicken Fajitas are a perfect choice for those lazy summer days when you want something tasty without putting in too much effort. The combination of zesty lime and smoky chipotle creates a delicious flavor that makes these fajitas stand out. They are light, fresh, and packed with colorful vegetables, making them a delightful option for a light dinner.
This dish is super easy to make—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. The chicken becomes tender and juicy, absorbing all the flavors from the spices and vegetables. Serve with warm tortillas, and you’ve got yourself a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortillas for serving
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onion on top of the chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix lime juice, chipotle chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper together. 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 shreds easily.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks, mixing it with the vegetables. Serve in warm tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.
BBQ Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowl
This BBQ Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowl is a colorful and wholesome dish that’s perfect for summer evenings. The sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory, smoky flavors of the BBQ chicken. It’s not only delicious but also super simple to make, making it an ideal choice for those lazy days when you want a light dinner without the fuss.
The combination of tender chicken, creamy sweet potatoes, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet nutritious. Topped with fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor, this bowl is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Cooked rice or quinoa for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Add Sweet Potatoes: Layer the cubed sweet potatoes around the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and stir it back into the sauce and sweet potatoes.
- Serve: Spoon the chicken and sweet potato mixture over cooked rice or quinoa and top with chopped green onions. Enjoy your delicious bowl!
Final Thoughts
Summer cooking doesn’t have to be a chore, and with these 13 slow cooker chicken recipes, it won’t be. They’re light, laid-back, and full of flavor—just like summer should be. Whether you’re planning ahead or just tossing in ingredients in the morning, each dish brings ease and enjoyment to your table. Dig in and savor the season!