Can I cook frozen chicken tenders in the slow cooker?

Short answer: Technically yes, but I don’t recommend it. Why? Frozen tenders spend too long in the "danger zone" (40°F–140°F), raising food safety risks. Pro Fix: Thaw overnight in the fridge. In a pinch? Use the defrost setting on your microwave, then pat dry thoroughly before searing. My 2018 Mistake: I tried skipping thawing—the result was watery, underseasoned chicken. Never again!

Why are my slow cooker chicken tenders dry?

Top Culprits: Overcooking (even 30 extra minutes can ruin them!). Using boneless, skinless tenders exclusively. Too much liquid (yes, really!). Pro Rescue Tip: Shred dry tenders and mix with ¼ cup broth + 1 tbsp mayo or Greek yogurt. I’ve salvaged 50+ batches this way for meal prep clients!

Can I substitute chicken breasts for tenders?

Yes, but adjust cook time! Chicken breasts are thicker, so cook on LOW for 4–5 hours (vs. 3–4 for tenders). Critical Step: Pound breasts to ½-inch thickness for even cooking. (I learned this after serving rubbery breasts at a potluck!)

How long can I store leftover slow cooker chicken tenders?

Fridge: Store leftovers in a sealed container for 3–4 days. . Freezer: 2–3 months. Wrap individually in foil (my go-to for grab-and-go lunches!). Pro Tip: Freeze with ¼ cup cooking juices to prevent dryness when reheating.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce (if added) and ensure broth is certified GF. Dairy-Free: Skip butter in sauces—replace with avocado oil or coconut oil. My Favorite Swap: Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy (tested on lactose-intolerant clients!).

Do I need to sear the chicken first?

Yes. unless you love bland food! Searing creates a Maillard reaction (a fancy term for flavor bombs!). Too Busy? Use a kitchen torch for a 60-second crust. (A chef taught me this hack during a chaotic catering gig!)

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, but timing is everything! Sturdy veggies (carrots, potatoes): Add at the start. Delicate veggies (zucchini, spinach): Toss in during the last 30 minutes. My Go-To Combo: Baby carrots + garlic cloves (whole) + thyme sprigs.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tenders Recipe (PDF Included)

Description

Juicy, hands-off slow cooker chicken tenders with a caramelized sear and tangy-sweet glaze. Perfect for busy days, meal prep, or picky eaters!

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs Chicken tenders (skin-on)
½ cup Low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
1 tsp Smoked paprika
1 tsp Garlic powder
1 tablespoon Olive oil
1 tbsp Honey (optional)

Instructions

Sear Tenders: Pat dry chicken, heat olive oil in skillet, and sear 2 minutes per side until golden.
Layer in Slow Cooker: Arrange tenders in a single layer. Whisk broth, vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and honey; pour around (not over) chicken.
Cook: Cover and cook on Low 3-4 hours (high for 1.5-2 hours) until internal temp reaches 165°F.
Rest & Serve: Transfer to plate, tent with foil for 5 mins. Reduce juices for sauce if desired.

Notes

Avoid Overcrowding: Use a 6-quart+ slow cooker for even cooking.

Freezer-Friendly: Store cooked tenders with ¼ cup broth for up to 3 months.

Crispy Skin Hack: Broil seared tenders 2 minutes post-cooking for extra crunch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours (Low) / 1.5 hours (High)
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tenders (150g)
Calories: 280
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 95mg