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Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Slow Cooker

4.8/5
Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Slow Cooker
⏱️
495 min Total Time
👥
6 servings Portions
🟡
Easy Difficulty
💰
Budget Cost
🔥
325 kcal Calories/serving

📹 Video Tutorial from YouTube

ℹ️ Video Disclaimer: This video is embedded from YouTube and is not owned by us. All rights belong to the original creator. Watch on YouTube

🛒 Quick Ingredients

6 portions

📋 Complete Ingredients List

💡 Pro tip: Tap items to check them off as you prep!

  • 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups quality BBQ sauce
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

🍳 Quick Cooking Steps

1

Dice the onion and mince the garlic

2

Place diced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker

3

Layer chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic

4

In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and all seasonings

5

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken

6

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours

7

Remove chicken from slow cooker and shred using two forks

8

Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with sauce

9

Let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes to absorb the sauce

10

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving

🔧 Kitchen Tools & Equipment

📋 Complete Tools List

  • 6-quart slow cooker
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Two forks for shredding
  • Large serving spoon
  • Storage containers

⚡ Quick Cooking Tips

For spicier version, add diced jalapeos or hot sauce

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor

Add liquid smoke for extra smoky flavor

Mix in different BBQ sauce varieties for unique flavors

Add bell peppers for extra vegetables

Try adding pineapple chunks for sweet Hawaiian style

Mix in bacon bits for smoky flavor

📊 Nutrition Facts

325
Calories
38g
Protein
24g
Carbs
8g
Fat

🔥 Time to Burn Calories

Walking 60min, Running 30min, Cycling 45min

📦 Storage & Meal Prep

🥶 Storage Instructions

  • Let cool completely before storing Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days Keep sauce and chicken together for best flavor retention

🔥 Reheating Tips

  • Reheat in microwave with additional sauce if needed Warm in slow cooker on low for 30 minutes Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to maintain moisture

⏰ Make Ahead Tips

  • Mix sauce ingredients up to 2 days ahead Chop onions and garlic the night before Freeze raw chicken with sauce in freezer bags for future use

❄️ Freezing Guide

  • Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months Divide into portion-sized containers before freezing Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve on toasted hamburger buns for classic BBQ sandwiches Serve over rice or quinoa for a grain bowl Top with coleslaw for added crunch and flavor Pair with corn on the cob and baked beans Use as a topping for baked potatoes

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Using frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker Opening the lid too frequently during cooking Not shredding the chicken while it's hot Using too little liquid which can dry out the chicken Skipping the final simmer after shredding

🎨 Recipe Variations

  • Honey Garlic: Use honey garlic sauce instead of BBQ Korean Style: Mix in gochujang and sesame oil Bourbon BBQ: Add bourbon to the sauce mixture Tropical: Include pineapple and mango BBQ sauce Smoky Chipotle: Use chipotle peppers and adobo sauce

❓ Quick Cooking Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken?

While possible, it's not recommended for food safety reasons. Thaw chicken first for best results.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

It should reach 165F and shred easily with forks.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 4 hours instead of 8 hours on low.

What's the best BBQ sauce to use?

Use your favorite brand, but avoid very sweet sauces as they can burn.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, if your slow cooker is large enough, just ensure chicken isn't overcrowded.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don't lift the lid during cooking and ensure enough sauce is used.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, add hardy vegetables like carrots or peppers at the beginning.

What if my sauce is too thin?

Cook uncovered on high for 30 minutes to reduce.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but remove bones before shredding and add 1 hour to cooking time.

How long does this keep in the refrigerator?

Up to 4 days when properly stored in airtight containers.

⭐ Community Reviews

Zara M.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect weeknight dinner! So easy and delicious.
Xavier P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Great flavor, but needed a bit more sauce for my taste.
Yuki T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My family's new favorite BBQ chicken recipe!
Winston L.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Really tender and flavorful, will make again.
Victoria R.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
So simple yet incredibly tasty!
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