Easiest and TASTIEST meal prep chicken (with a crock pot)

Easiest and TASTIEST meal prep chicken (with a crock pot) is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 200 calories per serving. Recipe by Dad Gainz on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 8 hrs | Total: 8 hrs 25 min

Cost: $6.60 total, $1.65 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (trimmed of excess fat)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground if possible)
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth (optional – adds moisture and flavor)

Instructions

  1. Trim and Pat Dry

    Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board, trim any visible fat, and pat dry with paper towels.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Season

    Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper. If you like, add any additional herbs or spices.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Load Slow Cooker

    Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth around the pieces; do not pour directly over the top if you prefer a drier shred.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Cook on Low

    Cover the slow cooker and set it to the LOW setting. Cook for approximately 8 hours.

    Time: PT8H

  5. Shred the Chicken

    When the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken (it will be very tender) and use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Cool and Store

    Allow the shredded chicken to cool for a few minutes, then portion into airtight containers for the fridge or freezer.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
200
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
0g
Fat
5g
Fiber
0g

Dietary info: High protein, Low carb, Gluten‑free, Dairy‑free, Paleo‑friendly

Allergens: None (unless cross‑contamination with dairy or gluten in the kitchen)

Last updated: April 7, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Easiest and TASTIEST meal prep chicken (with a crock pot)

Recipe by Dad Gainz

A simple, hands‑off slow‑cooker method to create tender, pull‑apart chicken perfect for meal‑prepping. Cook on low for about 8 hours, shred, and store for quick protein throughout the week.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
15m
Prep
8h 7m
Cook
1h
Cleanup
9h 22m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$6.60
Total cost
$1.65
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Loading the slow cooker with enough liquid to keep the chicken moist.
  • Cooking for the full 8‑hour low setting to achieve pull‑apart tenderness.
  • Shredding while the chicken is still warm.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle raw chicken with clean hands and sanitize all surfaces to avoid salmonella.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of shredded chicken in American meal‑prep cuisine?

A

Shredded chicken became popular in the United States with the rise of fitness and convenience cooking in the early 2000s. It offers a lean, versatile protein that can be quickly added to salads, wraps, and bowls, fitting the busy lifestyles of many Americans.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of shredded chicken in American cuisine?

A

In the Southern U.S., shredded chicken is often seasoned with Cajun spices and served over biscuits. In the Southwest, it may be tossed with chipotle and lime for tacos. The basic technique of slow‑cooking and pulling apart the meat remains consistent across regions.

cultural
Q

How is shredded chicken traditionally served in fitness‑focused meal‑prep culture?

A

Fitness‑focused meal‑prep typically pairs shredded chicken with low‑carb vegetables, whole‑grain rice, or quinoa, and stores it in portion‑controlled containers to meet macro goals for protein, carbs, and fats.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is shredded chicken commonly associated with in American home cooking?

A

Shredded chicken is a staple for casual gatherings like potlucks, game‑day spreads, and family BBQs because it can be made ahead and served hot or cold in a variety of dishes.

cultural
Q

What makes this slow‑cooker shredded chicken special compared to other quick chicken recipes?

A

The low‑and‑slow method yields ultra‑tender, pull‑apart meat without any active cooking time, making it ideal for busy schedules. It also requires minimal seasoning, letting the natural flavor shine while staying budget‑friendly.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making slow‑cooker shredded chicken?

A

Common errors include cooking on high instead of low (which can dry the meat), not adding enough liquid, and opening the lid too often, which extends cooking time and reduces tenderness.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use the LOW setting for 8 hours instead of HIGH for a shorter time?

A

Low heat gently breaks down connective tissue, producing a juicier, more shreddable texture. High heat can cause the chicken to become stringy or dry before it fully tenderizes.

technical
Q

Can I make this shredded chicken ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can cook a full batch, let it cool, then divide into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the chicken is done?

A

The chicken should be opaque throughout, easily fall apart with a fork, and retain a slight pink‑ish hue from the juices. It should feel moist but not watery.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Dad Gainz specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Dad Gainz focuses on high‑protein, fitness‑oriented meals and quick meal‑prep strategies for busy parents and athletes looking to build muscle and stay healthy.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Dad Gainz's approach to meal‑prep differ from other fitness cooking channels?

A

Dad Gainz emphasizes ultra‑simple, equipment‑light recipes that can be prepared in bulk with minimal seasoning, catering to dads who need fast, nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

TASTIEST High Protein Creamy Chicken Alfredo Meal Prep ONLY 500 Calories
4

TASTIEST High Protein Creamy Chicken Alfredo Meal Prep ONLY 500 Calories

A creamy, high‑protein chicken alfredo that stays under 500 calories per serving. Seasoned chicken breast, a light cream‑cheese alfredo sauce, and whole‑wheat pasta make this perfect for meal‑prepping or a quick weeknight dinner.

43 minServes 4$7
Italian
TASTIEST High Protein Chicken Fajita Mac N Cheese Meal Prep! Only 590 Calories
7

TASTIEST High Protein Chicken Fajita Mac N Cheese Meal Prep! Only 590 Calories

A creamy, flavorful, high‑protein twist on classic mac and cheese that packs the bold taste of chicken fajitas. Each serving is about 590 calories, perfect for meal‑prepping a week of tasty, protein‑rich comfort food.

55 minServes 4$17
Tex-Mex
Meal Prep 7 Days of Chicken Pot Pie
4

Meal Prep 7 Days of Chicken Pot Pie

A step‑by‑step bulk‑prepping guide for six servings of comforting chicken pot pie that can be frozen for up to three months. Includes detailed prep, cooking, and storage instructions, cost breakdown, macro info, and tips for efficient meal‑prepping.

3 hrsServes 6$49
American
Easiest & Tastiest High Protein Crispy Salmon Fried Rice Meal Prep!
4

Easiest & Tastiest High Protein Crispy Salmon Fried Rice Meal Prep!

A quick, high‑protein fried rice packed with crispy salmon, veggies, and a tangy spicy lemon mayo. Perfect for meal‑prepping, each serving is around 500 calories and delivers a satisfying crunch and flavor.

33 minServes 2$12
Chinese
Chipotle Chicken Meal Prep
5

Chipotle Chicken Meal Prep

A flavorful Mexican‑inspired meal‑prep recipe featuring lean chicken breast marinated in chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, paired with a fresh corn and black bean salsa. Perfect for quick, high‑protein lunches all week.

52 minServes 4$23
Mexican
One Pot Chicken Alfredo Meal Prep for Fat Loss
17

One Pot Chicken Alfredo Meal Prep for Fat Loss

A creamy, high‑protein chicken alfredo made in a single slow‑cooker that delivers the indulgent taste of restaurant‑style pasta with roughly a third of the calories. The recipe uses browned chicken, low‑fat dairy, potato‑starch thickening and a pre‑soaked fettuccine trick for perfectly al dente noodles every time. Perfect for meal‑prep and weight‑loss goals.

9 hrs 20 minServes 5$36
Italian