The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

Why Make This Recipe

Crockpot BBQ Chicken is a fantastic meal option for busy days. It’s worry-free and requires minimal effort, letting you enjoy delicious, tender pulled chicken without spending all day in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or meal prep for the week. Plus, the flavor combination of barbecue sauce, Italian dressing, and seasonings creates a tasty dish that everyone will love.

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How to Make the Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken

To prepare this easy pulled chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients and follow a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, with fat trimmed off
• 1 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (We love Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey BBQ)
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing (fat-free works too)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (reduce to 1/8 cup or omit if you prefer it less sweet)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. First, liberally spray the inside of a large crockpot or slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. For less mess, consider using a disposable liner.
2. Season your trimmed boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Place the chicken in the bottom of your crockpot.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, Italian dressing, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until combined.
4. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Put the lid on the crockpot and cook on high for 2.5-3 hours or low for 5-6 hours.
5. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
6. Once fully cooked, you can serve the chicken whole or use two forks to shred it. Shredding right in the crockpot allows the chicken to soak up the extra sauce.
7. Serve on buns for delightful BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches, or get creative by using it on pizza, in salads, tacos, nachos, over rice, or on its own. Enjoy!

How to Serve the Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken

You can serve this pulled chicken in many ways. It’s excellent on hamburger buns for a classic BBQ sandwich. Try it on top of a salad for a healthier option or load it onto tacos for a flavorful twist. It can also be served with rice, used as a pizza topping, or enjoyed as a delicious standalone meal.

How to Store the Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the shredded chicken. Just place it in a freezer-safe container and it will last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make the Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce mixture overnight before cooking.
• Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or omitting it altogether, depending on your preference.
• If you want a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by changing the barbecue sauce to your favorite brand or flavor. Add in some chopped vegetables like onions or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time will increase. Cook on low for about 7-8 hours instead of the usual 5-6 hours.

2. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to hold the additional ingredients. You may also need to adjust cooking time.

3. What can I serve with pulled chicken?
Pulled chicken pairs well with coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, or a simple green salad. Enjoy it alongside your favorite sides!

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