This Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is super easy and full of flavor! Just toss chicken breasts in with your favorite BBQ sauce and let it cook low and slow until tender.
I love how it makes meal prep a breeze. The chicken is juicy and delicious, perfect for sandwiches or served over rice. Seriously, who doesn’t love an easy dinner? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you’re in a pinch, bone-in thighs also work well for added flavor and moisture. Just adjust cooking time a little longer if you use thighs.
BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce; it can be sweet, spicy, or tangy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider a sugar-free or reduced-sugar sauce. You can also make your own if you have the time!
Chicken broth: If you’re out of chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water will do in a pinch. I sometimes use apple juice for a hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with BBQ flavors.
Onion and garlic powders: These add great depth, but fresh chopped onion and garlic can be substituted. Just remember that fresh has a stronger flavor, so use less. I often prefer fresh garlic for a bolder taste!
Smoked paprika: This ingredient gives a lovely smokiness. If you don’t have any, you could skip it or use regular paprika. Some people even like to add a dash of liquid smoke for that flavor.
How Do I Cook the Chicken to Make Sure it Shreds Easily?
The key to perfectly shreddable chicken is to cook it low and slow. By using a crockpot, you allow the meat to absorb all those yummy spices and become tender. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Add chicken to the crockpot first, then cover it completely with your BBQ sauce mixture for even cooking.
- Set your crockpot to low for 6-7 hours for the best results; this allows the flavors to deepen.
- If you choose high, make sure to check around 3 hours, as cooking times can vary depending on your crockpot’s power.
- Once it’s done, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the sauce for added flavor.
Don’t rush it! Enjoy the process; the longer cooking time is what makes it soft and juicy.
How to Make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns (for serving)
- Coleslaw (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll let your crockpot do the magic. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. So, in total, expect to spend a little over 6 hours if cooking on low, or about 3.5 hours if using high. You can relax while the chicken cooks, and then enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. It’s super simple—just lay them in there!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you want that extra flavor), and some salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Combine with Chicken:
Next, pour that yummy BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is nicely covered with the sauce—you want it to soak in all those delicious flavors!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook. If you’re on low, let it cook for about 6-7 hours. If you’re on high, check it after 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and pulls apart easily with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it well with the BBQ sauce so every bite is packed with flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve the pulled chicken on burger buns and feel free to drizzle more BBQ sauce on top. You can add some coleslaw for a crunchy, refreshing touch. Enjoy your tasty pulled chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low or about 30 minutes on high. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Be sure to break apart any frozen pieces if possible to allow the sauce to coat everything well.
What if I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute the BBQ sauce with other sauces such as teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or a homemade barbecue mixture using ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar. Adjust the seasoning to your taste for the best flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the pulled chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing and label it clearly!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add diced onions, bell peppers, or even carrots to the crockpot along with the chicken for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure they are cut into small pieces to cook evenly. Adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary to ensure everything is tender!
