This Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is not only tasty but also super simple! Just toss chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce and let the slow cooker do all the work. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook down nicely and shred easily. You could also use thighs for richer flavor, or even a mix of both if you like! They’ll provide a juicier result.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce! If you’re looking for a twist, try a spicy or honey-based sauce. No sauce on hand? You can mix ketchup and a bit of vinegar with spices to make a quick substitute.
Seasonings: Smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky flavor. You can replace it with regular paprika or even cumin for a different taste. Garlic powder and onion powder give great flavor; fresh minced garlic and onions work well, too!
Coleslaw Ingredients: If you’re short on time or ingredients, pre-packaged coleslaw mix is a lifesaver! For a lighter option, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the slaw dressing. It gives a nice tang!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding the chicken is a key step! After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes so it stays juicy. Use two forks for shredding—one to hold the chicken and the other to pull apart the meat. If it’s not shredding easily, give it a bit more time in the slow cooker!
- Remove the chicken breasts carefully and place them on a cutting board.
- With two forks, pull the chicken apart gently until it’s shredded to your liking.
- Mix the shredded chicken back into the crockpot with your barbecue sauce for great flavor.
This recipe is flexible and can suit any taste or occasion. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 6 sandwich buns (hamburger buns or soft rolls)
For the Coleslaw Topping (optional but recommended):
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (mix of green and red)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then 6-7 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s perfect for a busy day when you can let the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavor booster!
2. Set Up the Crockpot:
Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over them. This ensures all parts of the chicken get that delicious flavor!
3. Add Liquid:
Pour the chicken broth or water into the crockpot. This will help keep the chicken nice and moist while it cooks.
4. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cook until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. Smell that amazing aroma? That’s the smell of yummy chicken!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken until it’s nice and pulled apart. It should be super tender at this point!
6. Mix with BBQ Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir in the barbecue sauce until everything is well combined. For an extra boost of flavor, let it cook on low for another 15-30 minutes!
7. Make the Coleslaw:
While the chicken is finishing up, prepare the coleslaw. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage and carrots. In another small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything together until it’s well coated.
8. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Take a sandwich bun and spoon a generous portion of BBQ pulled chicken onto the bottom half. Add a hearty scoop of coleslaw on top, and then place the top bun over it.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are ready to dig in! Serve them warm, and feel free to pair them with chips and sliced apples for a complete meal!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches with crunchy coleslaw—perfect for an easy and delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just keep in mind that it will take a bit longer to cook. If cooking on low, add an additional hour or more, and if on high, add about 30-60 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety!
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices? Can I Substitute Them?
Absolutely! If you’re missing any spices, you can use what you have on hand. For instance, you can mix different spices like cumin, chili powder, or even use a pre-made BBQ spice mix to flavor the chicken.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and it will last for about 2-3 months!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the BBQ pulled chicken in advance! Cook it and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. This is a great meal prep option!
