This Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is super easy and packed with sweet and tangy flavors! Just toss the chicken in the slow cooker with your favorite BBQ sauce and let it cook.
You’ll love how tender and juicy it becomes! I like to serve it on buns for a yummy sandwich, or just enjoy it straight from the pot—who could resist? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish because they cook down well and become tender. If you’d like, you can substitute with boneless thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
BBQ Sauce: The beauty of this recipe is you can choose your favorite BBQ sauce! Whether it’s tangy, sweet, or spicy, go for what you love. If you want a healthier version, consider a low-sugar BBQ sauce or make your own with ketchup and spices.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce. You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even water if you’re in a pinch—just note that it might be a bit less flavorful. Homemade broth is also a great option!
Worcestershire Sauce: This helps enhance the overall flavor profile. If you’re looking for a vegetarian substitute, try soy sauce or liquid aminos instead! They provide a similar umami taste.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding chicken might seem tricky, but it can be simple with a few tips! After cooking, the chicken will be tender and fall apart easily. Here’s how to do it:
- Use two forks: Hold one fork steady and use the other to pull the chicken apart.
- Shred in the crockpot: This helps mix the chicken with the delicious sauce while shredding.
- Don’t rush: If the chicken seems resistant to shredding, let it cool slightly; sometimes letting it rest makes it even easier!
How to Make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving (optional):
- Hamburger buns
- Coleslaw
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ pulled chicken takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll cook it in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it, then enjoy some tasty chicken later in the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they are spread out evenly so they cook well.
2. Mix the BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk or fork to combine everything until it’s smooth and well-blended.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the BBQ mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Make sure to cover all the chicken pieces well so they soak up all those tasty flavors!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. You can choose to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done cooking, take two forks and shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir it into the sauce so that every bite is flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pulled chicken on hamburger buns. If you’d like, top it with some coleslaw for an extra crunch. Enjoy your delicious, homemade BBQ pulled chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure your crockpot has enough power to thaw and cook the chicken. For safety, it’s best to cook on high for 4-5 hours if using frozen chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with water. For added flavor, consider using vegetable broth or adding a bit of extra BBQ sauce to maintain the moisture and taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the pulled chicken for longer storage; just make sure to pack it in freezer-friendly containers or bags, and it should keep well for about 2-3 months.
Can I Adjust the BBQ Sauce Flavor?
Absolutely! You can customize the flavor by choosing different BBQ sauces or adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick. Feel free to mix in some honey for sweetness or apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist!
