This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a dream! You just toss chicken and BBQ sauce in the slow cooker and let it do all the work. It’s super tender and full of flavor!
I love serving this on buns with a crunchy slaw. It’s my go-to for game days or busy weeknights when cooking feels like a chore. Plus, the leftovers are always a hit! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they become tender and flavorful in the crockpot. If you’re looking for a different texture, you could use thighs instead. They have a richer flavor and stay juicy.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try a no-sugar-added sauce. For a twist, you can make homemade BBQ sauce using tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices.
Coleslaw Mix: I love using a mix of green and purple cabbage for color and crunch. If you’re short on time, pre-packaged coleslaw mix works great. You can also make your own mix with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Coleslaw Dressing: A mayonnaise-based dressing is typical but feel free to use yogurt or a vinaigrette for a lighter option. Add some vinegar for tang or chopped apples for sweetness!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Shreds Easily?
To get perfectly shredded chicken, the key is slow cooking it in the crockpot until it’s super tender. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a good quantity of liquid; chicken broth keeps the meat moist.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. High heat is quicker but low is better for tenderness.
- Check a little early; once the chicken pulls apart easily with a fork, it’s done!
Once you’ve shredded the chicken, mix it back with the sauce to absorb even more flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green and purple cabbage, shredded carrots)
- 1/2 cup coleslaw dressing (mayonnaise-based)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have flavorful BBQ pulled chicken ready for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your crockpot. This is where all the magic happens!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure the chicken is fully coated, so it absorbs all those tasty flavors as it cooks.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is super tender and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it well to coat in the delicious sauce.
6. Prepare the Coleslaw:
In a bowl, mix the coleslaw mix with the coleslaw dressing. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking. This adds a crunchy and creamy element to the sandwiches!
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Grab your hamburger buns and place a generous scoop of pulled chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Top it off with coleslaw, and then cover it with the bun top. Yum!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These sandwiches are best served warm. Pair them with apple slices, potato chips, or any of your favorite sides. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to extend the cooking time. Cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. Adjust the amount to taste, as these options can be a bit stronger.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra BBQ sauce if needed to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pulled chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving. It also freezes well; just make sure to use an airtight container to avoid freezer burn!
