This Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a lifesaver for busy days! It’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavorful barbecue sauce. Just toss everything in and let the magic happen!
I love how easy this recipe is—set it and forget it! It’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or simply eating right off the fork. Plus, it makes your kitchen smell amazing! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy shredding. You could also use thighs for a richer flavor, or go for rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Barbecue Sauce: Pick your favorite BBQ sauce—different brands have varied sweetness and smokiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free sauce or make your own with canned tomatoes and spices.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and flavor. If you’re short on broth, water works fine, or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can be a good substitute.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely depth to the dish. If you lack smoked paprika, regular paprika or-chipotle powder adds a nice kick, but start with less since it’s spicier!
How Do I Shred the Chicken Easily?
Shredding the chicken can be a breeze if you follow these simple tips! After cooking, it should pull apart easily with a fork. Use two forks: hold one in each hand and gently pull apart the chicken in opposite directions.
- Let the chicken cool briefly to avoid burns but ensure it’s still warm for easier shredding.
- Don’t rush—take your time to get even shreds, which will soak up more sauce.
- Returns the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the sauce so every bite is tasty.
How to Make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns or sandwich rolls (for serving)
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ pulled chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll then let it cook in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. The total time is around 6-8 hours for a hands-off cooking experience that yields tender, flavorful chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This is where we’ll create all the yummy flavors!
2. Whisk the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is combined nicely.
3. Combine in the Crockpot:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is well coated in that delicious sauce, so every bite is full of flavor!
4. Cooking Time:
Now, cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook. You can choose low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fully cooked and can be easily shredded with a fork—so tender!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Then, return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it to ensure it’s all nicely coated in the sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, pile the pulled chicken high on warm burger buns or sandwich rolls. You can even add some crunchy coleslaw on top for extra flavor and texture! Enjoy your yummy BBQ pulled chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to cook it on high for about 4-5 hours instead of the standard 3-4 hours. It’s best not to thaw in the crockpot, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
What Barbecue Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any barbecue sauce you like! If you prefer a sweeter flavor, opt for a honey barbecue sauce. For a tangy twist, try a vinegar-based sauce. Tailor it to your taste, and feel free to experiment with different styles!
How Can I Store Leftover Pulled Chicken?
Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, just make sure to label the container with the date for easy reference!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you want to add some heat, consider mixing in a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the barbecue sauce. Alternatively, if you wish to keep it mild, just leave out the smoked paprika and opt for a less spicy barbecue sauce.
