How To Cook Chicken In Slow Cooker On High [GUIDE]

Slow cookers, often celebrated for their convenience and ability to transform humble ingredients into rich, flavorful meals, are a staple in kitchens worldwide. While they are frequently associated with low-and-slow cooking, using a slow cooker on high heat can produce deliciously tender chicken in a fraction of the time. Cooking chicken on high can be a lifesaver on busy days when you want the convenience of a slow-cooked meal without the extended wait. This method allows you to achieve juicy, flavorful chicken, infused with seasonings and sauces, while maintaining the versatility to pair it with vegetables, grains, or pasta. However, slow-cooking chicken on high requires attention to timing and technique to avoid overcooked, dry meat. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to master chicken in a slow cooker on high heat.

How Long To Cook Chicken In Slow Cooker On High

The exact cooking time depends on the cut and size of your chicken. For bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, cooking on high generally requires 2 to 3 hours. Boneless chicken breasts typically cook faster, usually 1.5 to 2 hours on high. Whole chickens are more complex; a small 3- to 4-pound bird may take 4 to 5 hours on high.

It is important to note that cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker’s wattage and model. High heat in a slow cooker usually hovers between 300-325°F (149-163°C), which is sufficient to cook chicken thoroughly while still retaining moisture. Overcooking can dry out the meat, so using a thermometer or visually checking doneness is highly recommended.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining if chicken is fully cooked is critical to avoid foodborne illnesses. The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Visual cues also help: the juices should run clear, not pink, when the chicken is pierced. The meat should be opaque and easily pulled apart with a fork. Avoid judging solely by color, as some marinades and sauces can darken the chicken’s exterior while the interior is still undercooked.

Ingredients Needed

Cooking chicken in a slow cooker on high is highly flexible, allowing you to tailor flavors to your liking. A basic list includes:

• Chicken pieces: breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or a whole chicken
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any preferred spice blend
• Aromatics: onions, garlic, and herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves
• Liquid: chicken broth, water, or a sauce (barbecue, teriyaki, or cream-based)
• Vegetables (optional): carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, or celery for a one-pot meal

The slow cooker works best when chicken is partially submerged in liquid, which helps maintain moisture and evenly cook the meat.

How To Cook Chicken In Slow Cooker On High

1. Prepare the chicken: Trim excess fat and season thoroughly with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices.
2. Add aromatics: Place chopped onions, garlic, and other vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. These create a flavorful base and prevent the chicken from sticking.
3. Layer the chicken: Arrange chicken pieces on top of the aromatics, leaving space between pieces to allow heat circulation.
4. Add liquid: Pour in chicken broth, sauce, or a combination. The liquid should cover at least half of the chicken pieces.
5. Cook on high: Cover the slow cooker and set it to high. Follow the timing guidelines based on the cut of chicken. Avoid opening the lid too often, as heat escapes and slows cooking.
6. Check doneness: After the minimum cooking time, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C).

When Things Go Wrong

Even with a slow cooker, mistakes happen. Common issues include:

• Dry chicken: Usually caused by overcooking or insufficient liquid. Solution: add broth or sauce and cook for a shorter period next time.
• Undercooked chicken: Often a result of too-large pieces or inconsistent slow cooker heat. Cut larger pieces into smaller portions and double-check your appliance’s heating.
• Watery or bland flavor: Too much liquid or insufficient seasoning can dilute flavors. Reduce the liquid after cooking or enhance seasoning gradually.

Expert Tips

• Brown the chicken first: Searing chicken in a pan before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and improves texture.
• Layer wisely: Place denser vegetables like potatoes at the bottom and lighter items on top to ensure even cooking.
• Use the right cut: Dark meat tolerates longer high-heat cooking better than lean breasts, which can dry out faster.
• Avoid lifting the lid: Every peek can reduce the temperature and extend cooking time.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes. While slow cookers excel at convenience and even cooking, you can replicate a similar effect in an oven or stovetop:

• Oven: Cook chicken in a covered Dutch oven at 325°F (163°C) for 1.5-3 hours depending on size and cut.
• Stovetop: Simmer chicken in a heavy-bottomed pot with liquid, covered, on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally and check temperature frequently.

These methods mimic slow cooking but require more attention.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Reheating chicken in a slow cooker ensures it stays moist without overcooking. Add a splash of broth or sauce to prevent drying. Set the slow cooker to low, cover, and heat for 1-2 hours, checking occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid reheating on high, as this can make already-cooked chicken rubbery.

FAQs

How Long Does It Take To Cook Chicken In A Slow Cooker On High?

Typically, cooking chicken in a slow cooker on the high setting takes around 3 to 4 hours. The exact time depends on the size and type of chicken, as well as your specific slow cooker model.

Can I Cook Frozen Chicken In The Slow Cooker On High?

It is generally not recommended to cook frozen chicken in a slow cooker on high due to food safety concerns. The slow cooker may not bring the chicken to a safe cooking temperature quickly enough, which increases the risk of bacterial growth. It’s safer to thaw the chicken first before cooking.

Should I Add Liquid When Cooking Chicken In The Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, you should add some liquid, such as water, broth, or a sauce, to the slow cooker. This helps to maintain moisture and prevents the chicken from drying out. The liquid also helps create a flavorful base for the chicken.

Is It Better To Cook Chicken On Low Or High In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking chicken on low is often recommended because it allows the meat to become tender and juicy without drying out. However, if you’re in a hurry, cooking on high will work in less time, although it may result in slightly less tender chicken.

Do I Need To Brown The Chicken Before Cooking It In The Slow Cooker On High?

Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker is optional. While it can add flavor and improve the texture, it’s not necessary. If you prefer a simpler method, you can skip this step and place the chicken directly into the slow cooker.

Can I Cook Whole Chicken In A Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, you can cook a whole chicken in a slow cooker on high. Depending on the size of the chicken, it may take around 4 hours to cook fully. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

How Do I Know When The Chicken Is Done Cooking In The Slow Cooker On High?

To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the chicken should be easy to shred with a fork and appear fully cooked with no pink remaining.

Can I Add Vegetables When Cooking Chicken In The Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery. However, keep in mind that vegetables may cook faster than chicken on high, so it’s a good idea to add them later in the cooking process or cut them into larger pieces to avoid overcooking.

What Types Of Chicken Are Best For Slow Cooking On High?

Bone-in chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks, tends to work best for slow cooking on high, as the bones help keep the meat moist. Chicken breasts can also be used, but they can dry out if cooked too long, so it’s important to monitor the cooking time.

Can I Cook Chicken In The Slow Cooker On High If I Want To Make Shredded Chicken?

Yes, cooking chicken on high in the slow cooker is an excellent method for making shredded chicken. After about 3-4 hours, the chicken should be tender and easy to shred with a fork. Be sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature to confirm it’s cooked through.