Are you looking for a simple, hands-off way to cook incredibly juicy and tender chicken tenders? Look no further! Your crock pot is your new best friend for perfectly cooked chicken, every time. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring succulent chicken tenders that are perfect for salads, sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own.
Why Crock Pot Chicken Tenders are the Best
Crock pot chicken tenders offer several advantages over other cooking methods:
- Ultimate Tenderness: The slow cooking process in a crock pot breaks down the chicken fibers, resulting in incredibly tender and moist meat. No more dry, rubbery chicken!
- Hands-Off Cooking: Simply toss the ingredients in your crock pot, set it, and forget it! This is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a minimal-effort meal.
- Flavor Infusion: The slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the seasonings and any added liquids, resulting in deeply flavorful chicken.
- Easy Cleanup: Crock pots are notoriously easy to clean, making this recipe even more appealing.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders: Choose high-quality chicken for the best results.
- 1 cup of your favorite broth or liquid: Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even apple juice work well.
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite seasonings: This is where you can get creative! Try garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, or a pre-made poultry seasoning blend. Don't be afraid to experiment!
- Optional additions: Consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a few sprigs of fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Chicken Tenders:
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps them brown slightly and develop better flavor.
- Season generously: Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the chicken tenders. Make sure to season all sides.
- Place in the crock pot: Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the bottom of your crock pot. Avoid overcrowding.
- Add the liquid: Pour the broth or chosen liquid over the chicken tenders. Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged, but not completely covered.
- Cook on low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Shred (optional): Once cooked, you can shred the chicken with two forks for easier use in salads, tacos, or sandwiches.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve your delicious crock pot chicken tenders immediately or store them in the refrigerator for later use.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Chicken Tenders:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Overcrowding can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Thicken the sauce (optional): If you want a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken and simmer the remaining liquid in the crock pot until it reduces to your desired consistency. You can also mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Get creative with flavors: Experiment with different seasonings and liquids to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Serving Suggestions:
- Chicken salad sandwiches: Shred the chicken and mix it with mayonnaise, celery, and onion.
- Tacos or burritos: Use the shredded chicken as a filling for tacos or burritos.
- Salads: Add the chicken to your favorite salad for extra protein.
- Dipping sauce: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
With these simple steps and tips, you'll be enjoying perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender crock pot chicken tenders in no time! Enjoy!
