This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a lifesaver! Just toss some chicken and your favorite BBQ sauce in the crockpot, and let it cook low and slow. It’s super simple!
Perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal ready to go. I love making sandwiches with it, and leftovers? They taste even better! Who doesn’t love that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, as they become tender and juicy. You can also use thighs if you prefer. They have a bit more flavor! If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, chicken tenders work too.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand for convenience or make your own for a personal touch. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, choose a low-sugar BBQ sauce or try a vinegar-based sauce. My personal favorite is a smoky BBQ for that extra depth!
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds flavor and moisture. If you don’t have broth on hand, water is a perfect substitute. If you want a bit of a kick, use a bit of cider vinegar for added tang.
Coleslaw: This adds a nice crunch! You can buy pre-made coleslaw mix or whip up your own with shredded cabbage and carrots. A tangy vinaigrette instead of mayo can lighten it up, too.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Tender and Shreddable?
The key to tender, easy-to-shred chicken lies in the cooking time and moisture. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure to cover your crockpot to trap the steam. This keeps the chicken moist.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours for the best results. If you’re in a hurry, 3-4 hours on high works too.
- Check for doneness: the chicken should easily pull apart with forks when done.
- After shredding, return the chicken to the sauce for extra flavor before serving.
Give it a little rest in the sauce afterward! It makes a world of difference in flavor.
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 or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- 2 cups coleslaw (prepared or homemade)
- Optional: pickles or extra BBQ sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is super easy and takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, simply let your crockpot do the work! You’ll need to cook it for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Once it’s done, you can shred the chicken and assemble your delicious sandwiches!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. No need to cut them up, just lay them flat!
2. Season Your Chicken:
Next, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. This will add flavor and make your pulled chicken extra tasty!
3. Add Liquid Ingredients:
Now, pour your chicken broth (or water) and barbecue sauce all over the chicken breasts. The liquid helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful while it cooks.
4. Let It Cook:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s very tender and easy to shred.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and use two forks to shred them. It should fall apart easily!
6. Mix in the BBQ Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it well to coat with the remaining BBQ sauce. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
7. Let It Sit:
Allow the chicken to sit on the warm setting for about 10 minutes. This helps soak up even more of that tasty sauce.
8. Toast the Buns:
While the chicken is soaking in the sauce, toast or warm up your hamburger buns or sandwich rolls. This adds a nice crunch!
9. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Now, pile on the BBQ pulled chicken onto each bun. Don’t be shy—load them up!
10. Add Coleslaw and Serve:
Top each sandwich with a generous scoop of coleslaw for added crunch and freshness. Serve immediately with chips or apple slices for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious and easy BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in the crockpot! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time. Make sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking, and keep the lid on tight to retain moisture!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Ensure you use a gluten-free barbecue sauce, and substitute the hamburger buns with gluten-free rolls or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. It’s just as delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pulled chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating!
What Should I Serve with BBQ Pulled Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with potato chips, a fresh salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob. You can also enjoy it on its own or with sides that complement the BBQ flavor!
