This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is super simple and delicious! Just toss some chicken and BBQ sauce in the slow cooker, and let it do all the work. Perfect for sandwiches or tacos!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy this meal is. I just set it and forget it—then come back to juicy chicken that’s full of flavor. Yum, right? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you have thighs, they work too and will be juicier. For a quick option, rotisserie chicken can be used instead; just skip the cooking step and shred it into the sauce.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for the best flavor. If you’re watching sugar intake, there are low-sugar options available. You can also make your own by mixing ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and depth to the dish. If you don’t have it, water works just fine. I like to use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth, but if you don’t have it, a dash of regular paprika or even chili powder can work. Garlic and onion powder enhance flavor without the fuss—fresh versions are great too if you prefer!
Coleslaw: Store-bought coleslaw is convenient, but for a fresh and crunchy twist, consider making your own with shredded cabbage and carrots mixed in a simple dressing of mayo, vinegar, and seasoning.
What’s the Best Way to Shred Chicken?
Shredding chicken can be a bit messy if you’re not sure how to do it, but it’s simple! Once your chicken is done cooking and nicely tender, here’s how to do it:
- Remove the chicken from the crockpot and let it cool slightly.
- Using two forks, hold one fork in each hand. Start at one end of the chicken and pull it apart from each other, shredding it into pieces.
- For an easier option, use a hand mixer on low speed; this can shred chicken in seconds!
- After shredding, mix it back into the sauce in the crockpot.
This way, the chicken absorbs all that delicious BBQ flavor! Enjoy your pulled chicken sandwiches and the fun of making them!
How to Make Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe allows for about 15 minutes of prep time, with an additional 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for cooking in the crockpot. You’ll love how efficient this method is—set it up in the morning, and by dinner, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the crockpot in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and become flavorful.
2. Mixing the Sauce:
In a separate small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, chicken broth (or water), optional brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Adding the Sauce to Chicken:
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the crockpot. This will give the chicken plenty of delicious flavor as it cooks!
4. Cooking:
Cover the crockpot with its lid, and set the temperature: cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredable when it’s ready.
5. Shredding the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should pull apart easily!
6. Combining with the Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes so it can absorb even more flavor!
7. Preparing the Buns:
If you like, lightly toast the hamburger buns or sandwich rolls in the oven or on a skillet until they’re warm and slightly crispy. This adds a nice texture!
8. Assembling the Sandwiches:
To serve, pile the pulled BBQ chicken onto the buns and top them with coleslaw for a crunchy finish. You can add extra sauce if you like it extra saucy!
9. Serving:
Enjoy your delicious pulled chicken sandwiches while warm! Serve them alongside chips or fresh apple slices for a complete meal. Yum!
Enjoy your delicious and easy slow-cooked BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure they are fully thawed before cooking for the best results. If they’re still frozen, you might need to increase the cooking time by an hour or two, depending on your crockpot’s settings.
What BBQ Sauce Works Best?
Use your favorite brand for the best flavor! Whether you prefer a sweet, smoky, or spicy sauce, the choice is yours. If you’re looking for healthier options, there are low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauces available as alternatives.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Just store them in the fridge and cook them on the day you plan to serve. You can also cook the chicken a day in advance and simply reheat it in the crockpot or on the stove.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you notice the chicken is a bit dry, add a little barbecue sauce or broth to moisten it up!
