Pour the ½ cup of chicken broth into the bottom of your slow cooker. In a separate small bowl, combine the kosher salt, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.
Pat the 4 chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is a vital step that helps the oil and seasoning stick properly. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, using your hands to coat all sides evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over all surfaces of the chicken, pressing gently to help it adhere.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single, even layer. Avoid overlapping the chicken to ensure it all cooks at the same rate.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3.5 hours or on HIGH for 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of the chicken and your specific slow cooker model, so it’s best to start checking on the early side.
Overcooking is the number one cause of dry chicken. The most reliable way to check for doneness is with an instant-read meat thermometer. The chicken is perfectly cooked when the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or shredding. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, guaranteeing every bite is moist and flavorful.
After resting, slice the chicken against the grain or use two forks to easily shred it. The flavorful liquid left in the crockpot can be spooned over the chicken as a light sauce.