This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a winner! Just toss chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, and a few seasonings into the slow cooker, and let it do its magic for hours.
If you think waiting for dinner is hard, just remind yourself the smell will make it totally worth it! I love serving this chicken on buns with a crunchy coleslaw for extra yumminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the main ingredient. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor. Just remember they may take a bit longer to cook.
BBQ sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience. If you’re watching your sugar intake, opt for a sugar-free version or make your own! A mix of ketchup, vinegar, and spices works too.
Chicken broth: While this adds moisture, you can substitute it with water if you’re in a pinch. Just bear in mind, broth adds extra flavor!
Brown sugar: This is optional and gives a nice sweetness, especially if your BBQ sauce is tangy. If you need a sugar substitute, try honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity based on sweetness levels.
Spices: Feel free to customize the spices. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper or chili powder. Even add in some Italian seasoning for an unexpected twist!
How Do I Get Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding chicken is simple but can be tricky if it’s not tender enough. Let’s ensure yours turns out perfectly! After cooking, remove the chicken from the crockpot. Here’s how:
- Use two forks, holding one in each hand.
- Grab a piece of chicken with one fork and pull it apart with the other fork, shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
- If the chicken isn’t shredding easily, it may need more cooking time—just pop it back in for 15-30 more minutes.
Mix the shredded chicken back in the sauce to coat evenly. This keeps it moist and adds flavor. Enjoy your tasty pulled chicken sandwiches!
Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns or slider rolls
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for serving
Time Estimate:
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time, with a cook time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s mostly hands-off cooking, perfect for busy days!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot or slow cooker. Don’t worry about cutting or seasoning it just yet; the magic happens as it cooks!
2. Mix the BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful sauce to bathe the chicken in.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well covered to soak up all those tasty flavors while cooking.
4. Let it Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know the chicken is done when it becomes tender and can be shredded easily with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board or plate. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should fall apart easily!
6. Mix it Back In:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot. Give it a good stir to mix it with all that delicious BBQ sauce. Let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes on low to really soak in those flavors.
7. Prepare the Buns:
If you like, toast the hamburger buns lightly to add some crunch. Then, pile the BBQ pulled chicken generously onto each bun.
8. Add Coleslaw:
Top each sandwich with a scoop of coleslaw. This adds a delicious creamy texture and a nice crunch that complements the BBQ perfectly!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches right away with your choice of sides like potato chips, apple slices, or fries. Enjoy your meal with family and friends!
Enjoy your delicious and easy crockpot BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before adding it to the crockpot.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate cayenne pepper or chili powder into the BBQ sauce mixture. Alternatively, you can use a spicy BBQ sauce to elevate the flavor. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and shred it ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving on buns.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With BBQ Pulled Chicken?
Some popular sides include coleslaw, potato chips, fries, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with baked beans or corn on the cob for a classic barbecue experience!
