This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a real winner! Just toss chicken breasts in your favorite BBQ sauce, set the slow cooker, and let it do all the work for you.
It’s perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready without all the fuss. I love serving it on buns for a tasty sandwich, and it’s always a hit at parties too! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best because they stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be a more flavorful option. They may be slightly juicier and add richness to the dish.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe! If you want to make it healthier, consider a reduced-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce for better control over ingredients. For a smoky flavor, look for sauces with chipotle or hickory.
Chicken Broth: While chicken broth enhances flavor, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor may be milder.
Brown Sugar: If you want less sugar, you can skip it altogether or use a sugar substitute. Honey or maple syrup are good alternatives if you’re not concerned about keeping it strictly vegan.
Coleslaw: Store-bought coleslaw is super convenient, but homemade slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a simple dressing can add extra freshness. You can also use any of your favorite greens instead of cabbage.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender, Shreddable Chicken?
To get perfectly tender pulled chicken, slow cooking is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Season the chicken well with spices for maximum flavor.
- Low and slow is the name of the game. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, which helps the chicken breakdown without drying out.
- Let the chicken cool slightly before shredding. It shreds easier when you give it a few minutes to relax.
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart. It should flop right apart with minimal effort!
Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you mix the shredded chicken back in the sauce. It truly makes a difference in flavor!
Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- 2 cups coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus cooking time of 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crockpot. Just a little hands-on time, and then you can relax while dinner cooks itself!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful seasoning for the chicken!
2. Season the Chicken:
Rub the spice mixture on the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated for the best flavor.
3. Place in the Crockpot:
Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot, laying them flat for even cooking.
4. Add Sauce and Broth:
Pour the barbecue sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. If you’re using brown sugar for added sweetness, sprinkle it on top now!
5. Cook to Perfection:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will be tender and ready to shred when it’s done.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
7. Mix in the Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the BBQ sauce, ensuring that every piece is well coated.
8. Toast the Buns:
If you’d like, give the hamburger buns a quick toast for added texture and warmth.
9. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Spoon a generous amount of BBQ pulled chicken onto each bun, then top it with a hearty scoop of coleslaw for that perfect crunch.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches immediately with your favorite sides, like potato chips or apple slices. Dig in and enjoy the flavors!
This recipe will yield delicious, tender pulled chicken that is bursting with flavor, all thanks to the effort of your trusty crockpot. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken For This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so, as the chicken needs extra time to thaw and cook through. No need to thaw first; just add about 30 minutes to the total cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the pulled chicken for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you like some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the spice mixture. Adjust according to your taste preference, and feel free to omit spices if you prefer a milder flavor.
What Can I Substitute for the BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce or want a healthier alternative, you can create a tangy sauce using a mix of tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices like smoked paprika or chili powder. Just mix to taste for a customized flavor!
