This Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken is a game-changer! Just toss chicken breasts, your favorite BBQ sauce, and a few seasonings into the slow cooker. Let it do all the work for you.
The best part? It comes out super tender and packed with flavor. I love to serve it on buns for a quick meal or over rice for something hearty. You can’t go wrong!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs can work too; they tend to be juicier. You could also use frozen chicken, just add extra cooking time.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce you love since it sets the flavor. For a healthier option, you might consider homemade BBQ sauce or a lower-sugar version. European sauces like ketchup or teriyaki can also add a unique twist!
Brown Sugar: If you want less sweetness, you can skip the brown sugar. For a healthier substitute, try honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. It’s all about your preference!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely depth. You can also use regular paprika or chili powder for some heat. Experiment with your favorite spices to customize the flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Tender?
Getting tender chicken from the crockpot is simple if you follow these tips:
- Cook on low heat for longer if you can; it breaks down the chicken more gently.
- Avoid lifting the lid while cooking. Steaming inside helps maintain a consistent temperature.
- Shredding the chicken after cooking allows it to absorb more sauce and flavors.
With these tweaks, your BBQ chicken will turn out delicious every time!
How to Make Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crockpot BBQ Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep. You’ll need to let it cook for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. So, you can set it up in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Make the BBQ Sauce Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, water or chicken broth, brown sugar (if using), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until it’s nicely combined.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce to soak in all those flavors.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook. For tender, juicy chicken, cook on low for 6-7 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours instead.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, take off the lid. Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir it well in the BBQ sauce so it’s fully coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious BBQ chicken is ready! Serve it on hamburger buns, over a bed of rice, or alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful meal!
This Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken is perfect for busy days and makes for great leftovers. Enjoy your flavorful meal with minimal prep!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, increase the cooking time by about an hour for both low and high settings. Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Just make sure to divide it into portions and use freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What Can I Serve with BBQ Chicken?
This BBQ chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it on hamburger buns for sandwiches, over rice or mashed potatoes, or alongside coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. Get creative with your favorites!
Can I Adjust the Level of Sweetness?
Yes! If you prefer a less sweet BBQ chicken, simply omit the brown sugar. You can also experiment with different types of BBQ sauce—some are sweeter than others—to find the flavor profile that suits you best!
