How To Slow Cook Chicken Breasts to Juicy, Tender Perfection

Slow cooking chicken breasts in the oven results in incredibly moist tender and flavorful meat that falls off the bone. This hands-off cooking method transforms even the most inexpensive chicken cuts into a mouthwatering culinary masterpiece.

As a busy home cook, I love utilizing my oven’s slow cook function to prepare perfect chicken every time without monitoring a stovetop. After years of trial and error, I’ve honed my technique and want to share my foolproof method with you Follow these simple steps for the ultimate slow-cooked chicken breast experience

Choosing the Right Chicken Breasts

While most recipes call for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, I actually prefer leaving the skin and bones intact when slow cooking. The bones help retain moisture, while the skin prevents the meat from drying out.

For evenly cooked, tender meat, choose chicken breasts of uniform size and thickness Larger, thicker breasts may require slightly longer cook times Organic and free-range chicken offer superior flavor.

Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Rinse the chicken breasts under cool running water, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or skin if desired.

Season generously on all sides with salt, pepper and your favorite herbs and spices. I like using a classic Italian blend, garlic powder, paprika and cayenne for a kick. Massage the seasonings into the meat so they permeate deeply.

For extra flavor, marinate the breasts for 30 minutes to overnight in olive oil, lemon juice and garlic. The acid in the lemon juice tenderizes the chicken.

The Low and Slow Process

Preheat your oven to 250°F or the lowest temperature setting available. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish or cast iron skillet, skin side up.

Surround the chicken with roughly chopped aromatics like onions, garlic, carrots and celery. The vegetables add moisture and become deliciously caramelized.

Pour in enough chicken broth or water to come halfway up the chicken breasts. Drizzle with olive oil. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil.

Cook for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is very tender and shreds easily with a fork. The meat should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Infuse Flavor

One benefit of slow cooking is the ability to infuse complex flavors into the chicken. Try rubbing spices like smoked paprika, chili powder and cumin into the skin. Spoon salsa verde, pesto or harissa paste on top.

Deglaze the pan with wine, stock or lemon juice to make an incredible sauce. Mix the shredded chicken with barbeque sauce or Buffalo sauce for pulled chicken sandwiches.

Moisture Is Key

Drying out is enemy number one when cooking chicken breasts. The steam created by the liquid in the covered baking dish helps keep the meat incredibly moist. For even more insurance, I baste the chicken with pan juices every 45 minutes.

The skin and bones also prevent moisture loss. If using skinless breasts, rub with olive oil before cooking. Don’t overcook – pull the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F.

Safety First

Always use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken has reached a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F. Be sure to thoroughly wash hands, utensils and surfaces that have touched raw chicken to prevent foodborne illness.

Leftover cooked chicken will keep refrigerated for 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly to 165°F. Chicken also freezes beautifully for 1-2 months.

Serving Suggestions

Shredded slow cooked chicken is endlessly versatile. Pile it onto sandwiches, tacos, nachos, salads and pizza. Toss with barbecue sauce for tasty wraps. Mix into pastas, rice bowls and casseroles.

Stir it into soups, chilis and stews for extra protein. Meal prep chicken salad or breakfast burritos for easy make-ahead lunches. Even my picky kids devour this juicy, flavorful chicken!

Oven Slow Cooking Tips

• For food safety, don’t cook frozen chicken breasts – always thaw first
• Leave ample space between breasts for even cooking
• Use a thermometer to prevent overcooking
• Allow chicken to rest before serving
• Use leftover cooking liquid for soups and gravies

Slow cooking chicken breasts in the oven results in incredibly tender, succulent meat infused with mouthwatering flavor. Preparing juicy chicken breasts has never been easier! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy gourmet results. Impress your family with melt-in-your-mouth chicken tonight.