Slow Cooker Hunters Chicken

What is Hunters chicken?

Hunters chicken is a popular chicken dish made with chicken breast, bacon, BBQ sauce and melted cheese. This slow cooker version adds smoked paprika, garlic, Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce to create a rich, smoky BBQ-style sauce.

Can you make Hunters chicken in a slow cooker?

Hunters chicken is ideal for the slow cooker. Simply wrap the chicken breasts in bacon, add the homemade BBQ-style sauce and cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Finish with grated cheddar and allow it to melt before serving.

How long does Hunters chicken take in a slow cooker?

This slow cooker Hunters chicken takes 3-4 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low. Cooking times can vary between slow cookers and depending on the size of your chicken breasts, so always make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

Can you put raw chicken in a slow cooker?

Yes, raw chicken can be cooked safely in a slow cooker as long as it reaches a safe internal temperature and is cooked all the way through. For this recipe, place the raw bacon-wrapped chicken breasts directly into the slow cooker with the sauce and cook until fully cooked.

Do I need to brown the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?

No. You don’t need to brown the chicken first for this recipe. Wrapping the chicken breasts in bacon and cooking them directly in the slow cooker keeps the recipe simple and means there’s no extra pan to wash.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes. Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts in Hunters chicken. They tend to be more forgiving in the slow cooker and can produce a particularly juicy result. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on their size.

Can I use bacon medallions for Hunters chicken?

Yes. Bacon medallions can be used if you want to reduce the fat content. You can also use your preferred type of bacon, although streaky bacon works particularly well because the fat helps keep the chicken moist while cooking.

What BBQ sauce is best for Hunters chicken?

Use your favourite BBQ sauce. A smoky or classic BBQ sauce works particularly well with the smoked paprika, bacon and cheddar in this recipe. You can also use a reduced-sugar BBQ sauce if preferred.

How do you thicken Hunters chicken sauce?

If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, you can thicken it with cornflour. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornflour with a few tablespoons of the sauce in a cup until smooth, then stir it back into the slow cooker. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until thickened.

Can I make Hunters chicken without cheese?

Yes, although the melted cheddar is one of the classic parts of Hunters chicken. If you don’t want to use cheese, simply leave it out or replace it with another grated cheese that melts well.

What cheese is best for Hunters chicken?

Mature cheddar works particularly well because its stronger flavour pairs with the smoky BBQ sauce and bacon. You could also use mozzarella, Red Leicester or a cheddar and mozzarella combination.

What should I serve with slow cooker Hunters chicken?

There are lots of options. For an easy family dinner, serve it with baby potatoes and a fresh salad. If you’re after proper comfort food, try creamy mashed potato with peas, broccoli, green beans or other steamed vegetables.

Can I make Hunters chicken ahead of time?

Yes. Slow cooker Hunters chicken is a great make-ahead family dinner. Once cooked, allow it to cool and store it in the fridge, then reheat thoroughly before serving. Keep the chicken and sauce covered and refrigerated.

Can I freeze slow cooker Hunters chicken?

Yes, Hunters chicken can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge before reheating until piping hot. If possible, you may prefer to add freshly grated cheese when reheating.

Is Hunters chicken a good family dinner?

Yes. This is an easy family-friendly chicken recipe that requires minimal preparation and cooks in the slow cooker. Serve it with potatoes and vegetables for a simple dinner that works well for both weeknights and weekends.

Can I make Hunters chicken in advance in the slow cooker?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to refrigerate raw chicken rather than leaving it sitting in the switched-off slow cooker for several hours. Prepare the sauce and chicken, refrigerate them safely, then cook when you’re ready.