How Long To Cook Frozen Chicken In A Crockpot: Detailed Instructions For Juicy Chicken

The crockpot is a kitchen hero, making frozen chicken effortlessly transform into a perfectly cooked meal. However, understanding how long to cook frozen chicken in a crockpot is essential for flavor and ensuring the chicken reaches the necessary internal temperature for consumption.

This guide will clarify the cooking times to help you create delicious chicken dishes with your slow cooker.

How Long To Cook Frozen Chicken In A Crockpot?

In general, cooking frozen chicken in a crockpot takes about 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high temperature.

However, the detailed answer for the question “How long to cook frozen chicken in a crockpot?” depends on a few factors, including the type and size of the chicken, the setting of your crockpot, and whether the chicken is frozen or thawed.

Cooking times based on the chicken type

The type of chicken you’re cooking can significantly affect the cooking time. If you’re looking to place frozen chicken in the crock pot, a whole chicken may take approximately 4-6 hours on high heat or 6–8 hours on low heat. If you’re cooking a frozen chicken breast, expect about 3–4 hours on high or 5-7 hours on low. 

Due to their density, bone-in, skinless chicken breasts might require an additional hour. If cooking chicken thighs, allocate about 2–3 hours on high or 5–6 hours on low.

Read more about How Long To Bake Chicken Breast At 350 Degrees Fahrenheit? Perfect Cooking Time

Differences in cooking times for low and high settings

Cooking your frozen chicken in the crock on a low setting will take longer than cooking it on high heat. However, the low setting is often recommended, as it allows for a more gradual and even cooking process, which typically results in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Factors that may affect cooking times

While the size and type of chicken contribute significantly to the cooking time, other factors also play a part. When cooking chicken in the crock pot, whether chicken breast or a whole chicken, the fact that it’s frozen will add to the cooking time.

However, the most important rule when figuring out how long to cook frozen chicken in a crockpot is ensuring that the chicken reaches the recommended internal temperature. According to the USDA, the chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for consumption.

To enhance the flavor of your dish, consider adding chicken broth or your preferred seasonings. By following these guidelines, you can ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Useful Tips For Cooking Frozen Chicken In A Crockpot

The success of a chicken dish hinges on how long to cook frozen chicken in a crockpot, as well as other crucial factors like seasoning, ensuring doneness, and adhering to necessary guidelines.

Seasoning and marinating for enhanced flavor

Before placing the chicken in your crockpot, it’s worthwhile to season or marinate it before cooking. Although you’re starting with frozen chicken, the slow cooking process allows flavors to permeate thoroughly. Apply your chosen spices directly to the chicken or prepare a marinade, add the frozen chicken to it, then cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Testing for doneness

Use a food thermometer to tell when a frozen chicken is thoroughly cooked and ready for consumption. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of the chicken of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Proper handling and storing of leftover chicken

Proper handling and storage of leftover chicken are as essential as cooking. Once your chicken is cooked, refrigerate any leftovers within two hours to maintain optimal food quality. When reheating, ensure that the chicken cooks to a appropriate temperature.

Remember, the key to avoiding overcooking frozen chicken in the slow cooker is to cook the chicken on low until it reaches the correct internal temperature. Using these tips to cook your frozen chicken in a crockpot, you can enjoy a delicious meal every time.

Herb And Lemon Chicken Recipe

Understanding how long to cook frozen chicken in a crockpot allows for various tasty recipes. Here is one of many options for beginners and those looking for more advanced flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Equipment

• 1 slow cooker
• 1 airtight container (for marinating)

Ingredients

  

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (frozen, each weighing around 6–8 ounces)
• 1 medium-sized lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions

 

• Place the chicken in an airtight container with lemon and herbs; allow the chicken to marinate overnight.
• Transfer the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Add chicken broth to cover.
• Cook on low for 6–8 hours.

What should you do with leftovers? 

Handling leftover chicken properly is crucial for its preservation and maintaining its taste for future meals. Here’s what you can do with the leftover Herb and Lemon Chicken:

1. Cool it Quickly: Don’t leave your leftover chicken at room temperature for over 2 hours. Instead, keep the chicken cool and store it in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible.
2. Store Properly: Place the leftover chicken in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If you use a container, ensure it’s shallow to help the chicken cool quickly.
3. Refrigerate or Freeze: Refrigeration is fine if you plan on eating the leftovers in the next 3–4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freeze it. Generally, frozen cooked chicken can last up to 4 months in the freezer without significantly losing quality.
4. Reheating: To consume leftover chicken, warm it up. Heat it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). When using a microwave for reheating, it’s advisable to cover the chicken to prevent it from drying out.
5. Use in Other Recipes: Leftover Herb and Lemon Chicken can be used in numerous dishes like salads, sandwiches, wraps, or pasta. Just ensure it’s reheated properly before use.

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