This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a winner! Just throw chicken, your favorite BBQ sauce, and some spices into the slow cooker, and let it do the rest. So simple and tasty!
What I love most is how tender the chicken turns out. Plus, it makes the house smell amazing! Serve it on a bun, and you’ve got a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless thighs because they stay super juicy! If you have breasts on hand, use them instead. For a healthier option, you can also swap in turkey or tofu for a vegetarian version.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite BBQ sauce! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can make your own with tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices. For a spicier kick, try adding hot sauce or a smoky BBQ sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds a nice tang. If you’re out of it, use lemon juice or rice vinegar instead. It will give that refreshing zing you need in the dish.
Spices: I suggest adjusting the spices to your taste! If you prefer, add a little cayenne for heat or fresh herbs like thyme for added flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding chicken might seem tricky, but it’s straightforward! The key is to make sure the chicken is cooked until it’s very tender. Here’s how:
- Before shredding, let the cooked chicken cool for a few minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart; it should fall apart easily. If it doesn’t, it might need a bit more cooking.
- After shredding, stir in the sauce from the crockpot for that rich flavor.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly shredded chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4-6 hamburger buns or slider buns
- Coleslaw (for topping)
- Optional sides: Apple slices and potato chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes a total of about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 6-7 hours of cooking time on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Just set it and forget it, making your day easier with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts or thighs right at the bottom of your crockpot. It’s important to use the right cut of chicken for the most tender and flavorful results.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth (or water), apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well blended and smooth.
3. Pour & Cook:
Now, pour your delicious BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is covered well! Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is super tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully take the cooked chicken out of the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should come apart easily!
5. Mix with the Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it back into the yummy sauces to coat it well. This is where all the flavor comes together!
6. Serve:
Grab those hamburger or slider buns, and spoon the BBQ pulled chicken right on top. Finish it off with a nice helping of coleslaw for that crunchy texture. And if you’d like, serve it with some apple slices and potato chips on the side for a full meal. Enjoy!
Your Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken sandwiches are now ready to be devoured! Enjoy every bite of that juicy and flavorful dish!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure it cooks for a longer period—typically an extra hour on low or 30 minutes on high. Make sure to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any BBQ sauce you love! Store-bought sauces work great, or you can make your own for a personalized touch. Look for options that have a flavor profile you enjoy, whether sweet, spicy, or smoky!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and BBQ sauce mix a day in advance. Just store the chicken and sauce in the fridge, and then cook it in the crockpot the next day for an easy meal!
