This Zesty Slow Cooker Chicken Barbecue is super easy and tasty! Imagine juicy chicken simmering all day in a delicious BBQ sauce—what’s not to love?
The best part? You can toss everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner. I love serving it with some coleslaw or on top of rice for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can also use thighs for more flavor and moisture, or even a mix of both if that suits your taste.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free version or make your own! There are lots of great homemade recipes online.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth enhances the flavor. If you’re vegan or need to avoid chicken, vegetable broth works well. Just adjust seasoning since veggie broth can vary in taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just use a bit less since they can be stronger.
Brown Sugar: Adding brown sugar gives extra sweetness and depth. If you want a healthier choice, honey or maple syrup could be good substitutes. You may skip it entirely if you prefer less sweetness.
How Do I Shred the Chicken Easily?
Shredding the chicken is a key step to get that perfect pulled chicken texture. Here’s how to make it easier:
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding so it cools slightly.
- Use two forks; hold one fork steady and use the other to pull apart the chicken. This method works best when the chicken is still warm.
- Mix the shredded chicken with the sauce in the crockpot for better flavor. You can taste and add more salt or spices if needed.
Keep the shredded chicken in the warm sauce until ready to serve, keeping it moist and flavorful. Enjoy!
How to Make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice, store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns (for serving)
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken requires about 10 minutes for preparation and takes approximately 6-7 hours to cook on low heat (or 3-4 hours on high). Just set it and let your crockpot do the work while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce Mixture:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Add the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if desired), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined, creating a flavorful sauce.
2. Get the Chicken Ready:
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Pour the delicious sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated nicely. This is what will give your pulled chicken all its amazing flavor!
3. Set and Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. If you have time, opt for the low heat setting and let it cook for 6-7 hours. In a hurry? Go for the high heat setting, cooking for 3-4 hours. Just keep an eye on the chicken; it should be fully cooked and easy to shred.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once your chicken is cooked through, it’s time to shred! Use two forks to pull apart the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it in with the sauce so each bite is flavorful and juicy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your hard work! Serve the pulled chicken on hamburger buns, adding a scoop of coleslaw on top if you’d like. This adds a nice crunch and freshness to each delicious bite. Enjoy your homemade BBQ pulled chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or for a quicker method, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Avoid cooking frozen chicken directly in the crockpot as it may not reach a safe temperature in time.
What Barbecue Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any barbecue sauce you love! For a spicy kick, try a chipotle or cayenne-infused sauce. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, go for one with honey or brown sugar. You can also make your own barbecue sauce at home by mixing ketchup, vinegar, and spices to suit your taste!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and raw chicken in the crockpot, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to allow it to come to room temperature before starting the cooking process. It’s a great time-saver for busy days!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or in the microwave!
