This Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken is super simple and packed with flavor! Just toss chicken breasts in your favorite BBQ sauce and let the slow cooker do the work. Easy peasy!
I love how I can set it and forget it, making dinner a breeze. Plus, it’s great on sandwiches or with a side of coleslaw. You’ll be licking your fingers in no time! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook down nicely. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work great too and add extra flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own or opt for a low-sugar variety for a healthier option.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds some tanginess. If you don’t have it, lemon juice or a splash of mustard can substitute, giving a similar flavor boost.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness, but if you want to skip it, honey or maple syrup can also work well. You might even consider a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
How Do I Get Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
The key to shredding chicken is to allow it to cook fully and become tender. The longer it cooks, the easier it will shred. Here’s how to do it right:
- Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the crockpot and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken. Hold one fork in each hand and pull apart the meat gently.
- Return the shredded chicken back to the sauce in the crockpot. This ensures every piece is coated with that delicious BBQ sauce!
Letting it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes enhances the flavor, so don’t skip that step!
Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large bottle (about 2 cups) of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time. You’ll then let it cook for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your crockpot. After that, just shred, stir, and serve! All in all, you’ll have tender, juicy BBQ chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot or slow cooker. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer so that they cook evenly.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This sauce will give your chicken that amazing BBQ flavor!
3. Pour the Sauce:
Now, pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well covered by the sauce. This will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it cooks.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.
5. 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. It should fall apart easily!
6. Combine with Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the remaining sauce. Make sure all the pieces are coated well so every bite is flavorful.
7. Let It Meld:
To enhance the flavor even more, let the shredded chicken cook on low for an additional 15-30 minutes. This step allows the chicken to soak up all that delicious BBQ goodness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your crockpot BBQ chicken is ready to be served! Enjoy it on buns for tasty sandwiches, over rice, or with sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob. Enjoy your tender, flavorful BBQ chicken!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! However, for safety, make sure to cook them on high for 4-5 hours instead of low, as the longer cooking time on low may not fully thaw the chicken safely.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless thighs or even bone-in chicken pieces. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; bone-in pieces typically need a bit longer, around 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, you can store the shredded BBQ chicken in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time! Simply combine the chicken and sauce in the crockpot insert and refrigerate the night before. In the morning, just set it to cook as directed for a hassle-free meal later!
