Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken
Looking for a healthy and flavorful slow cooker pulled chicken recipe? This Slow Cooker Shredded Lemon Garlic Chicken is a simple and versatile dish that’s perfect for meal prep. With just a few wholefood ingredients, you can create tender, juicy pulled chicken infused with lemon and garlic. Whether you’re following a gluten-free, dairy-free, or paleo diet, this recipe fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. Enjoy it over quinoa, in salads, or as a filling for tacos and wraps.
This slow cooker lemon garlic shredded chicken recipe is a great recipe that you can use in so many other recipes. I love to make up a bulk batch and use it for lunches or for the base of my chicken Buddha bowl.
It also ticks all the food lifestyle boxes…..keto, low carb high fat, paleo, gluten free & dairy free!!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
Easy to make – This crockpot pulled chicken recipe is super easy to make.
Healthy wholefood ingredients – which are easy to find at any supermarket, health store, food markets or on-line store.
Allergy and intolerance friendly – this recipe is suitable for people with gluten, dairy, nut allergies & intolerances as well as many other dietary requirements.
Can be used as the base for other recipes – This pulled chicken recipe can be used in many other recipes likes salads, nachos, tacos, soups, omelets, rice/quinoa bowls and many more.
INGREDIENTS & VARIATIONS
Chicken – I have only tested this recipe with chicken breast. But chicken thighs would also work really well.
Butter – you can substitute the butter with coconut oil if you are dairy free
Chicken stock – Homemade chicken stock is preferable to use but there are some great store bought options out there. My favourite are from Maggie Beer .
Dried Oregano – you could use fresh herbs as well or even a mixed herb blend. Italian herbs would be nice as well.
How to Make Pulled Chicken in a Slow Cooker
Making pulled chicken in a slow cooker couldn’t be easier. Simply add your chicken breasts, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to the slow cooker, then set and forget. After a few hours, the chicken will be perfectly tender and ready to shred with a fork—no extra steps required.
Tips for Perfect Pulled Chicken
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best texture. For extra flavor, sear the chicken quickly before adding it to the slow cooker. Don’t skip the rest time—letting the chicken sit in the juices after shredding helps it absorb even more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker pulled chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a nourishing grain-free meal, add it to tacos or lettuce wraps, or toss it through a salad for a protein-packed lunch. It’s also delicious in a gluten-free sandwich or rice paper rolls.
Storage and Meal Prep
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. This pulled chicken recipe is perfect for batch cooking—just portion it out and use it throughout the week in different meals for quick and healthy options.
RECIPE FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
When is best to shred the chicken?
I recommend shredding the chicken with two forks once it is ready or has cooled down slightly. It is best to shred while it is still warm. Shredding cooled chicken is harder to pull apart. But once it has been shredded, let it sit in the juices to absorb even more of the flavour.
Can I freeze or refrigerate the shredded chicken?
If you are going to store the chicken in the refrigerator then you can store it for 3-4 days. If you are going to freeze it, then the chicken needs to be placed in a freezer safe bag, with all the air removed. It should last up to 3 months.
How do I ensure that the chicken does not dry out when I store it?
If you are going to store the chicken in the refrigerator, then I recommend pouring one cup of the liquid from the slow cooker to the chicken when you place it in an air-tight container.
Looking for other slow cooker recipes? Try these:
Lastly, if you make this slow cooker meal then I would love to hear from you. You can either leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! If you do make this recipe, please tag me on Instagram! It really makes my day when I see your creations of my recipes.
Slow Cooked Pulled Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil also works
- 2.2 lbs chicken breast
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
Instructions
- Prep dry rub. Mix the dried oregano, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the chicken breast with the mixture.
- Prepare chicken breast. Heat the coconut oil (or butter) in large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the chicken breast for a few minutes on both sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Add remaining ingredients. In the same skillet on medium heat, add the minced garlic and cook for 10 seconds. Then, add the chicken stock and lemon juice, bring to the boil and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add to slow cooker. Then, pour the mixture over the chicken. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and easily comes apart.
- Shred. Shred the chicken with two forks as soon as the chicken is read and serve with quinoa (or cauliflower rice) and some steamed vegetables.
