This Easy Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a game changer! Just throw chicken in with your favorite BBQ sauce, let it cook, and wow, it falls apart perfectly.
It’s a simple dish that’s great for sandwiches, tacos, or just enjoying with a side. Trust me, your friends will think you’re a BBQ pro, and you hardly lifted a finger! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they stay tender during cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great option too!
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can find sugar-free BBQ sauces in stores or even make your own at home.
Chicken Broth or Water: Chicken broth adds extra flavor. If you’re in a pinch, water works just fine. For a twist, try using apple juice or beer for a unique taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, you could use lemon juice or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
The key to shredding chicken is to let it cook long enough until it’s tender. Here’s how:
- Cook the chicken on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when it easily pulls apart with a fork.
- After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crock pot. This allows it to soak up the sauce for maximum flavor.
- Allow the shredded chicken to sit in the sauce for 10-15 minutes on warm setting. This step enhances the taste and ensures every bite is delicious!
With these simple tips, you’ll have perfectly tender and flavorful BBQ pulled chicken ready to enjoy!
Easy Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 to 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ pulled chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then needs to cook for either 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crock pot. It’s perfect for a busy day—just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts neatly at the bottom of your crock pot. No need to cut or trim—the slow cooking process will tenderize them beautifully!
2. Mix the Sauces:
In a separate bowl, combine your BBQ sauce, chicken broth (or water), apple cider vinegar (if you’re using it), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is mixed well. This concoction will be the flavorful sauce that tenderizes and coats the chicken.
3. Combine in the Crock Pot:
Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crock pot. Make sure the chicken is well covered to soak up all that delicious flavor.
4. Cook it Up:
Now, cover the crock pot and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s easy to shred, and the smell will make your mouth water!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once your chicken is fully cooked, use two forks or a wooden spoon to shred the chicken right in the crock pot. This way, it can soak up even more of that yummy BBQ sauce.
6. Let it Soak:
For the best flavor, let the shredded chicken sit in the sauce on the warm setting for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb even more of the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your BBQ pulled chicken is now ready to enjoy! Serve it hot on hamburger buns, over rice, in tacos, or however you like. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
Enjoy your hands-off, flavorful BBQ pulled chicken!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to cook it longer. Make sure it cooks for about 8 to 10 hours on low, or 4 to 5 hours on high. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for safety.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before. Simply place everything in the crock pot insert, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just set it in the slow cooker and let it cook while you’re away.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Can I Customize the BBQ Sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce or mix different flavors. You could even add spices or hot sauce for some extra kick. Just adjust the sweetness or tanginess to suit your taste!
