Yes, you can leave chicken in a crock-pot (slow cooker) all day, but there are some important guidelines to follow to ensure it is cooked safely and stays delicious.
When cooking chicken in a crock-pot, it's essential to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Bone-in chicken can take longer to cook, and the extended cooking time in a slow cooker may not reach the safe internal temperature required for bone-in poultry.
Follow these tips to cook chicken safely in a crock-pot:
Use the right setting: If you plan to leave the chicken in the crock-pot all day, use the low setting. Cooking chicken on low heat for an extended period helps it become tender and ensures thorough cooking.
Cut chicken into smaller pieces: If the chicken breasts or thighs are large, consider cutting them into smaller pieces. Smaller cuts will cook more evenly and reduce the risk of undercooking.
Add liquid: For best results, add some liquid to the crock-pot, such as chicken broth, water, or a sauce. This will help keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out during the long cooking process.
Check for doneness: The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it has reached this temperature before serving.
Avoid opening the lid frequently: Every time you lift the lid, you release heat and can significantly increase the cooking time. Try to resist the temptation to peek too often, as it can delay the cooking process.
Avoid overcooking: Even though slow cookers are designed to cook food slowly, there's still a limit to how long you should leave chicken in the crock-pot. Leaving it in there for too long could lead to the chicken becoming dry and less flavorful. Aim for about 6-8 hours on low for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively cook chicken in a crock-pot all day, resulting in tender, delicious chicken for your meal.