This easy Crock Pot BBQ Chicken is perfect for busy days! Just toss chicken into the pot with your favorite BBQ sauce, let it cook low and slow, and you’ll have tender, flavorful pulled chicken.
It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure—I love serving it on buns with some crunchy coleslaw. Making sandwiches has never been simpler! Plus, the leftovers are always a hit in my fridge!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they get tender in the slow cooker. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a tasty alternative that adds more flavor and moisture.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for personal touch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free or homemade sauce. You can also experiment with different flavors—spicy or tangy varieties bring new life to the dish!
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth keeps the chicken moist and adds flavor. If you’re out, you can use water or vegetable broth as a substitute, but keep in mind the taste may be milder.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth to the dish, but feel free to skip it if you’re not a fan. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a nice kick if you prefer some heat!
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily in a Crock Pot?
Shredding chicken can seem tricky, but it’s simple in a crock pot! Once your chicken is cooked and tender, it practically falls apart. Here’s how to do it:
- Using two forks, pull the chicken apart. Hold one fork steady and use the other to tear into the chicken.
- Make sure to mix the shredded chicken with the sauce in the pot for great flavor.
- Shred in the crock pot to save dirty dishes—easy clean-up!
This method works well because the chicken is super tender after slow cooking, making it easy to shred!
How to Make Crock Pot BBQ Chicken (Pulled Chicken)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the BBQ Sauce Mixture:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pulled BBQ chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then slow cooks for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crock pot. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crock pot. This is the base of your yummy BBQ chicken!
2. Mix the BBQ Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the BBQ mixture evenly over the chicken in the crock pot. Make sure each piece of chicken gets a nice coating of the flavorful sauce.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and let it cook. Choose to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s ready when the chicken is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the crock pot. Mix it well with the remaining sauce to make it extra tasty.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to eat! Serve the pulled BBQ chicken on hamburger buns. If you like, top it off with some coleslaw for an added crunch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to increase the cooking time slightly. If cooking on low, allow 7-8 hours, and for high, about 4-5 hours. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you want to try a different flavor, you can substitute BBQ sauce with a homemade sauce of ketchup mixed with vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. Alternatively, teriyaki sauce or a spicy salsa can add a unique twist!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, pack it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Crock Pot?
Absolutely! You can add chopped onions, bell peppers, or even corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure not to overcrowd the pot, as it might affect the cooking time and texture of the chicken.
