Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken is tender, smoky, and full of sweet tangy flavor that practically melts in your mouth. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or rice bowls, it’s a fuss-free comfort dish made effortlessly in your crockpot — ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family gatherings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken because it’s the perfect blend of flavor, convenience, and versatility. With minimal prep, the crockpot does all the work, slowly infusing the chicken with a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce. The result is fall-apart tender chicken packed with rich, deep flavor that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, salads, or even loaded baked potatoes. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that fits any meal — whether it’s a casual dinner or a backyard party. Plus, cleanup is minimal, making it a true kitchen win for busy days.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs — thighs add extra juiciness.
• Do not overcook. Shred when tender but still moist.
• Add a dash of liquid smoke for that real barbecue pit flavor.
• For extra flavor, mix in caramelized onions or roasted garlic before serving.
• Serve on toasted brioche buns or slider rolls for the best texture contrast.
• Double the batch and freeze leftovers for future quick meals.

Yield: 6 Servings

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken

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Tender, smoky BBQ pulled chicken slow-cooked to perfection — juicy, flavorful, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or family dinners.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 5 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 2 cups barbecue sauce (smoky or sweet)
• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the slow cooker or use a liner for easy cleanup.
2. Layer the Chicken: Place chicken breasts or thighs in the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until smooth.
4. Add Aromatics: Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
5. Pour the Sauce: Pour the BBQ mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
6. Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
7. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, place it on a plate, and shred using two forks.
8. Mix Back In: Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the rich BBQ sauce.
9. Simmer Briefly: Let it cook for another 15 minutes to soak up all the flavors.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot on buns, over rice, or inside tacos. Garnish with chopped parsley or pickles for a perfect finish!

Notes

• For extra smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke before cooking.
• Perfect for parties — keep it warm in the crockpot and serve directly from it.
• Pair with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a complete meal experience.

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 485Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 156mgSodium 1205mgCarbohydrates 45gFiber 1gSugar 36gProtein 53g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are lean and shred easily; thighs stay juicy longer.
• BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite style — smoky, sweet, or spicy. Homemade sauce works great too.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle caramel sweetness that balances tangy sauce.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Gives a zesty lift and enhances the smoky barbecue flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Deepens the savory notes, adding umami richness.
• Onion and Garlic: Provide a robust flavor base for the sauce.
• Smoked Paprika: Infuses that classic barbecue smokiness without grilling.
• Mustard: Adds a tangy punch that complements the sweetness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add chili powder, cayenne, or jalapeños for a kick.
• Sweet twist: Add pineapple juice or honey for a tropical, sticky glaze.
• Vegan version: Use shredded jackfruit or firm tofu instead of chicken.
• Low-sugar option: Choose a no-sugar BBQ sauce and skip the brown sugar.
• Add veggies: Bell peppers, corn, or onions can cook alongside for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage Options

• Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Store portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding extra BBQ sauce or broth to keep moist.

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