Slow Cooker Chicken
When busy weeknights call for something simple, comforting, and filling, this 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is a recipe worth keeping on repeat. With just raw sliced chicken cutlets, a flavorful barbecue-style or tomato-pepper sauce, and dry onion soup mix, you can create a delicious family dinner with minimal preparation.
Simply layer everything in the crockpot, turn it on, and let the slow cooker handle the cooking. After a few hours, you’ll have tender slow cooker chicken coated in a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice, noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes.
This easy chicken dinner is especially convenient for busy fall evenings when you want a warm homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
Ingredients
- 2 pounds raw sliced chicken cutlets
- 1 cup thick barbecue sauce or tomato-pepper cooking sauce
- 1 packet dry onion soup mix
How to Make 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
- Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray if desired.
- Arrange the raw chicken cutlets in an even layer in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Pour or spread the barbecue sauce or tomato-pepper sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over the top.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Gently stir the chicken into the sauce before serving.
- Serve hot over fluffy rice, buttered noodles, or mashed potatoes.
What to Serve With Slow Cooker Chicken
The rich sauce makes this chicken especially delicious with simple side dishes. Try serving it with:
- Fluffy white or brown rice
- Buttered egg noodles
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
- Green beans
- Fresh garden salad
- Warm dinner rolls
- Homemade cornbread
The extra sauce is perfect for spooning over rice or potatoes, making the entire meal feel hearty and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Recipe
1. Only 3 Ingredients
You don’t need a long grocery list. Three simple ingredients are enough to create a flavorful chicken dinner.
2. Minimal Preparation
There is very little chopping or cooking before the slow cooker takes over, making this an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
3. Family-Friendly Flavor
The combination of sweet, tangy sauce and savory onion seasoning creates a familiar flavor that works well for the whole family.
4. Great for Meal Planning
The recipe makes 4 to 6 servings, so it’s useful for family dinners and can provide convenient leftovers for lunch.
5. Easy to Customize
You can easily adjust the sauce, add vegetables, or change the side dishes depending on what your family enjoys.
Easy Variations
Mild & Kid-Friendly:
Choose a sweet, mild barbecue sauce and serve the chicken over buttered noodles for a simple family meal.
Extra Saucy:
For more sauce, add an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue or tomato-pepper sauce before cooking.
Add Vegetables:
Add sliced onions, baby carrots, or other sturdy vegetables to the slow cooker for an easy one-pot-style dinner.
Serve It Differently:
Instead of rice or mashed potatoes, shred the cooked chicken and serve it in sandwiches, wraps, or over baked potatoes.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tips
- Arrange the chicken in an even layer so it cooks consistently.
- Always check that chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid repeatedly because heat escapes and cooking time can increase.
- If using a particularly thick sauce, check the consistency near the end of cooking.
- Let leftovers cool before transferring them to an airtight container.
How to Store Leftover Chicken
Store leftover slow cooker chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. If the sauce has become too thick, add a small splash of water or broth while reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken cutlets?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, although cooking time may vary depending on their thickness. Always verify that the thickest portion reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this chicken ahead of time?
Yes. Cooked chicken can be refrigerated and gently reheated when you’re ready to serve it.
What is the best sauce to use?
A sweet or smoky barbecue sauce works particularly well, but a thick tomato-pepper sauce can also provide excellent flavor.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Baby carrots, sliced onions, and other vegetables that hold up well during slow cooking can be added for extra flavor and variety.
