This BBQ pulled chicken is super easy to make in a crockpot! Just toss in some chicken breasts, your favorite BBQ sauce, and let it cook low and slow until it’s tender and tasty.
Grab your buns and get ready for a fun meal! I love serving this chicken at parties; it’s always a hit and I get to relax while it cooks itself! 🍗🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for the tender texture of this dish. If you’re looking for a substitution, you can use thighs instead. They add more flavor and are less likely to dry out.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for flavor! You can also use a sugar-free or low-sodium version for a healthier option. If you want to make it from scratch, mix ketchup, vinegar, and spices together.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds moisture; however, water is a good substitute if you don’t have it. You could also use beef broth for a different flavor. Just adjust the seasoning in the recipe accordingly!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky taste, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of cumin can be a flavorful alternative.
How Do I Get the Chicken Tender and Easy to Shred?
The key to tender, shreddable chicken is cooking it long enough without drying it out. Low and slow is the way to go! Here’s how:
- Start with fresh or thawed chicken for even cooking.
- When using the crockpot, make sure to cover it tightly to retain moisture.
- Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours for the best results—trust me, the chicken will fall apart easily!
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps keep some juices in and makes mixing with the BBQ sauce much easier!
Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 sandwich buns or slider rolls
- 2 cups prepared coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
- Butter (for toasting buns, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 6 to 7 hours to cook on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high). Just set your crockpot, and you can forget about it until mealtime!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your crockpot. This is the base of your delicious BBQ pulled chicken!
2. Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth or water, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture is packed with flavor and will help keep your chicken moist. Pour it evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully covered.
3. Cook the Chicken
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and easy to shred!
4. Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right inside the crockpot. Mix the shredded chicken with all the delicious sauce to make sure every bite is full of flavor!
5. Toast the Buns
If you like, toast your sandwich buns in a pan with a bit of butter for added flavor and crunch. This step is optional but highly recommended!
6. Assemble the Sandwiches
Take your toasted buns and load them up with a generous portion of the pulled BBQ chicken. Top it off with a scoop of coleslaw for a nice crunch and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches immediately with sides like chips or apple slices. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Enjoy your easy, flavorful BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking for even results. If you’re short on time, you can also cook it from frozen on high for about 4 to 5 hours; just keep an eye on the consistency. Always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste! For less heat, leave out the smoked paprika or use a milder BBQ sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. The flavors will develop even more deliciously!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy it on sandwiches, salads, or baked potatoes!
