Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
Juicy, tender, and loaded with smoky-sweet BBQ flavor, Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken is a true dinner MVP. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even on top of a salad, this versatile recipe is easy to make and always a hit. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or whipping up a quick family dinner, this dish will be your go-to.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
- In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
Step 3: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce. Let it cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes to soak up the flavor.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the BBQ pulled chicken on hamburger buns, in tacos, or over a bed of rice. Garnish with coleslaw or pickles for extra crunch and tang.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Servings: 6
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken:
- Chicken choice: Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat.
- Add heat: For a spicy kick, stir in 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Homemade BBQ sauce: Make your own sauce for a more personalized flavor. Mix ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
- Crispy edges: If you love the caramelized bits of BBQ, spread the pulled chicken on a baking sheet and broil it for 3-5 minutes.
More Easy Chicken Crockpot Recipes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken: Sweet and Savory Perfection
A rustic wooden table with a plate of BBQ pulled chicken piled high on a toasted bun, topped with a crunchy coleslaw garnish. The tender, saucy chicken glistens in a rich BBQ sauce, surrounded by a side of baked beans and pickles. A slow cooker sits in the background, ready for the next batch.
