How long to cook chicken breast in crock pot is one of the most common slow-cooker questions—and for good reason. Chicken breast is lean, affordable, and versatile, but it can turn dry or rubbery if cooked too long. The good news is that with the right timing, temperature, and a few simple techniques, you can get juicy, tender, perfectly cooked chicken breast every single time.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn exact cooking times, how long to cook chicken breast in crock pot low, when high heat works, how to cook fresh or frozen chicken safely, and how to avoid the most common mistakes. This article is designed to be clear, practical, and trustworthy, so you can cook with confidence—whether you’re meal-prepping, shredding chicken, or making a simple weeknight dinner.
How Long to Cook Chicken Breast in a Crock Pot (Quick Answer)
For most kitchens, the safest and most reliable answer is:
- Low setting: 6–7 hours
- High setting: 3–4 hours
Chicken breast is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking on LOW is strongly recommended if you want juicy, tender results. High heat works in a pinch, but it increases the risk of overcooking.
Important: Slow cookers vary. Always confirm doneness with a thermometer when possible.
Crock Pot Chicken Breast Cooking Time Chart
This table gives you a quick, accurate reference based on the most common variables people search for.
| Chicken Type | Crock Pot Setting | Cooking Time | Notes |
| Boneless, skinless (fresh) | LOW | 6–7 hours | Best for juicy chicken |
| Boneless, skinless (fresh) | HIGH | 3–4 hours | Watch closely |
| Boneless, skinless (frozen) | LOW | 7–8 hours | Safer than HIGH |
| Bone-in chicken breast | LOW | 7–8 hours | More moisture |
| Bone-in chicken breast | HIGH | 4–5 hours | Check temp early |
| Chicken breast for shredding | LOW | 7–8 hours | Fall-apart texture |
Bold takeaway: LOW heat + patience = better chicken.
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Chicken Breast in a Crock Pot
This simple method works whether you’re cooking plain chicken for salads or seasoning it for a full meal.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breast for even cooking. Trim excess fat if needed and pat the chicken dry. Season simply with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite spice blend.
Step 2: Add Liquid (Don’t Skip This)
One of the most overlooked steps is liquid. You don’t need much, but you do need some.
- Add ½ to 1 cup of chicken broth, stock, or sauce
- The chicken does not need to be fully submerged
- Liquid creates steam and prevents drying
Step 3: Choose the Right Setting
- LOW is best for texture and moisture
- HIGH is acceptable if you’re short on time, but be precise
Step 4: Cook With the Lid On
Resist the urge to peek. Every time you lift the lid, heat escapes and increases cooking time.
Step 5: Check Doneness
Chicken breast is done at 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the chicken should be opaque, white throughout, and easy to pull apart.
How Long to Cook Chicken Breast in Crock Pot Low
If you’re searching specifically for how long to cook chicken breast in crock pot low, here’s the clear answer:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: 6–7 hours on LOW
- For shredding: 7–8 hours on LOW
Cooking on LOW allows the chicken fibers to relax slowly, which keeps the meat moist and tender. This is the preferred method recommended by most experienced home cooks.
Quote: “Low and slow is the secret to juicy chicken breast in a slow cooker.”
How Long to Cook Frozen Chicken Breast in Crock Pot
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken breast in a crock pot—but timing and safety matter.
- Cook frozen chicken breast on LOW for 7–8 hours
- Avoid HIGH heat with frozen chicken
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F
Frozen chicken releases extra moisture as it cooks, which actually helps prevent dryness. However, it takes longer to reach a safe temperature, which is why LOW heat is safer and more consistent.
Boneless vs Bone-In Chicken Breast Cooking Time
Bone-in chicken breast takes slightly longer but often stays juicier.
- Boneless: cooks faster, leaner texture
- Bone-in: adds moisture and flavor, longer cook time
If you’re struggling with dry chicken breast, trying bone-in is a smart alternative.
How Long to Cook Chicken Breast for Shredding in Crock Pot
If your goal is shredded chicken, timing is everything.
- Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours
- Use enough liquid to partially surround the chicken
- Chicken should pull apart easily with forks
For meal prep, tacos, or sandwiches, shredding works best when the chicken is fully tender but not overcooked.
How to Keep Chicken Breast Juicy in a Slow Cooker
Chicken breast dries out when it’s overcooked, not under-seasoned. These tips make a real difference:
- Use LOW heat whenever possible
- Add broth or sauce
- Remove chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing
Resting allows juices to redistribute, which keeps the chicken moist.
Can You Overcook Chicken Breast in a Crock Pot?
Yes. Despite the name, a slow cooker can absolutely overcook chicken breast.
Signs of overcooked chicken include:
- Dry or chalky texture
- Stringy meat
- Bland flavor despite seasoning
Chicken breast has very little fat, so once it passes the ideal temperature window, moisture is lost quickly.
Low vs High Crock Pot Setting: Which Is Better?
This is one of the most common questions after how long to cook chicken breast in crock pot?
| Setting | Best Use |
| LOW | Best texture, most forgiving |
| HIGH | Faster, but higher risk of dryness |
Recommendation: Use LOW unless you truly need speed.
Do You Need to Flip or Stir Chicken Breast in a Crock Pot?
No. In fact, flipping or stirring is unnecessary and can release heat.
- Place chicken in a single layer if possible
- Keep the lid closed
- Let the slow cooker do the work
Can You Stack Chicken Breasts in a Crock Pot?
Yes, but with care.
- Stack only 2–3 breasts
- Increase cook time slightly
- Ensure liquid reaches the bottom layer
Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking, so avoid stacking too much.
Meal Prep, Storage, and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
Cooked chicken breast keeps for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Freezing
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Add a little broth before freezing to preserve moisture.
Reheating
Reheat gently with a splash of liquid. Avoid overheating, which dries the meat.
READ MORE >>> How Long to Cook Chicken Breast on Stove (Juicy Every Time)
Common Crock Pot Chicken Breast Mistakes
Avoid these and you’ll immediately improve results:
- Cooking too long “just to be safe”
- Using no liquid
- Cooking on HIGH for convenience
- Lifting the lid too often
FAQs
How long to cook chicken breast in crock pot on low?
About 6–7 hours for fresh chicken breast.
How long to cook chicken breast in crock pot?
Most recipes fall between 3–4 hours on HIGH or 6–7 hours on LOW.
Is it safe to cook chicken breast from frozen?
Yes, if cooked on LOW and brought to 165°F.
How do I know chicken is done without a thermometer?
It should be white throughout and easy to pull apart.
Final Summary: Best Cooking Time for Chicken Breast in Crock Pot
If you remember one thing, remember this:
- LOW heat
- 6–7 hours
- 165°F internal temperature
That combination delivers juicy, tender chicken breast without stress or guesswork. Whether you’re cooking for dinner, shredding for meal prep, or stocking the freezer, following these guidelines ensures consistent, delicious results every time.
Cooking chicken breast in a crock pot doesn’t have to be risky—just precise.
