How to make chicken more tender in a slow cooker?

Cook chicken tenders on low heat and avoid overcooking. Use a flavorful liquid like broth or sauce to help keep them moist. Resting the chicken after cooking also improves tenderness.

Can I put raw chicken in the slow cooker?

Yes, it's completely safe to put raw chicken tenders in the slow cooker. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cooking on low helps them become tender and juicy without drying out.

What is the secret to cooking tender chicken?

The secret is low, slow heat combined with moisture. Don’t skip the seasoning, and always use a bit of liquid to prevent dryness. Avoid high heat unless you're short on time.

Do you need to put liquid in the slow cooker when cooking chicken?

Yes, for chicken tenders, a small amount of liquid like broth or sauce is ideal. It helps create steam, keeps the chicken moist, and enhances the overall flavor.

Chicken Tenders in Slow Cooker – Juicy in 4 Easy Steps

Description

Juicy, flavorful chicken tenders slow-cooked to perfection with pantry ingredients. The ultimate comfort food recipe for busy days or meal prep.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken tenders

1/2 cup chicken broth

2 tbsp honey

1/3 cup barbecue sauce

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken tenders dry and place them in a slow cooker.

2. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken.

3. Pour in chicken broth, honey, and barbecue sauce.

4. Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until chicken reaches 165°F.

5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

6. Optional: shred and serve over rice, salad, or in wraps.

Notes

Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching salt intake.

Chicken tenders cook quickly—avoid overcooking.

For extra flavor, marinate chicken overnight before slow cooking.