This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a real treat! Just toss some chicken breasts into the slow cooker with BBQ sauce and let it do the work. So simple and so tasty!
You can serve this shredded chicken on buns or with a side of coleslaw. I love using it for game day—it feeds a crowd and makes my house smell amazing while it cooks! 🐔
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they shred easily. You can use thighs for a juicier option if you prefer. They hold up well and can add extra flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce works best! For a lighter option, try a sugar-free sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade barbecue sauce can be a fun substitute.
Chicken Broth: While chicken broth adds flavor, water is also fine if you’re in a pinch. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian approach or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a little tang.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness, but you can skip it if you prefer a less sweet dish. Honey or maple syrup are also tasty alternatives.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder give great flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, though you’ll miss that smoky hint.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Shredded?
To get perfectly shredded chicken, timing and temperature matter. Start by cooking the chicken until it’s tender. Here’s how:
- Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. You want it to be easy to shred, not dried out.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken and use two forks to shred it—this keeps it moist.
- Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and let it soak for additional flavor, cooking it uncovered for about 15-20 minutes.
This method guarantees juicy, flavorful pulled chicken every time! Enjoy the ease of your crockpot for a delicious meal.
Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 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, for smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 sandwich buns or slider rolls
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires approximately 10 minutes of prep time and 6 to 7 hours of cooking on low in the crockpot (or 3 to 4 hours on high). So, you can set it up in the morning and have a delicious dinner waiting for you by the time you get home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Mix the BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, chicken broth (or water), brown sugar (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you like that smoky flavor), and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Combine and Cook:
Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot, making sure all pieces are well coated. Then, cover and set your crockpot on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and easy to shred!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-size pieces.
5. Soak in the Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and give it a good stir to mix it with the remaining sauce. Cook uncovered on low for an additional 15-20 minutes to let the chicken soak up the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
6. Serve It Up:
To serve, spoon the pulled chicken onto sandwich buns and top with coleslaw. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal!
7. Enjoy!
Pair your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches with tasty sides, like apple slices and crispy potato chips. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Cook on low for about 8 to 9 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.
What Type of Barbecue Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any BBQ sauce you love! Whether it’s classic, spicy, or smoky, choose a flavor that you enjoy. For a homemade version, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and your favorite spices.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pulled chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Can I Serve with BBQ Pulled Chicken?
This pulled chicken is delicious on sandwich buns, but it also pairs well with rice, salad, or even stuffed in baked potatoes. For extra crunch, serve with a side of coleslaw or pickles!
