This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is so simple! Just toss chicken breasts in a crockpot with your favorite BBQ sauce and let it cook low and slow until it’s tender and juicy.
The best part? It’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just digging in with a fork. I love that I can set it and forget it—more time to binge-watch my favorite shows! 🤗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken is perfect for this recipe because it cooks evenly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless thighs work well too. They add extra flavor and moisture.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite brand! You could even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. For a twist, try a spicy BBQ sauce or a sweet honey version. No BBQ sauce? Try teriyaki or a homemade vinaigrette as a substitute.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it on hand, water can be used instead. Vegetable broth is a nice substitute if you want a lighter flavor.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powders provide great flavor. You can swap these for fresh garlic or onions if you have them. Just adjust the quantity to taste; a little goes a long way!
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken can feel a bit tricky, but it’s super easy once you know a few tips! After you cook the chicken, let it cool for a few minutes. Use two forks and pull the chicken apart in opposite directions. This will help you get nice, even shreds.
- If you want to save time: Use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on a low setting to shred the chicken. It works like magic!
- Make sure the chicken is hot and tender; this makes shredding much easier.
Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade) for topping
- Optional: sliced pickles for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then you will let your crockpot do the magic for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you’d rather not spend time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are in a single layer to allow even cooking.
2. Mixing the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well until mixed.
3. Pouring Over the Chicken:
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well coated with the tangy goodness. This will add a delicious flavor to your chicken as it cooks!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable when it’s done.
5. Shredding the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and place them on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Mixing Back in the Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the remaining BBQ sauce to coat it evenly. This makes every bite deliciously flavorful!
7. Toasting the Buns:
If desired, lightly toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or on a skillet to add some crunch. This gives your sandwiches an extra tasty touch!
8. Assembling the Sandwich:
Now it’s time to build your sandwich! Pile a generous amount of the BBQ pulled chicken onto each bun, and top it with a scoop of coleslaw for added crunch and freshness.
9. Adding Optional Extras:
If you like, add some sliced pickles to your sandwich for an extra zing. They complement the sweetness of the BBQ and the crunch of the coleslaw wonderfully!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches immediately with sides such as potato chips, salad, or apple slices for a refreshing crunch.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches! They’re perfect for game days, family gatherings, or just a delicious weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to increase the cooking time. If cooking on low, allow for about 8-9 hours, or 5-6 hours on high. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the pulled chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating!
What Can I Use Instead of BBQ Sauce?
If you’re out of BBQ sauce, you can substitute it with teriyaki sauce, or a homemade mixture of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust seasonings to your taste!
Can This Recipe Be Made Spicy?
Absolutely! To add some heat, mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños into the BBQ sauce before pouring it over the chicken. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
