The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious meal that will please the whole family, look no further than The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken). This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household for its incredible flavor and tenderness. There’s something magical about coming home to the smell of BBQ chicken wafting through the air after a long day. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings—everyone loves a good pulled chicken sandwich!

This recipe is not just simple; it’s versatile too! You can whip it up with minimal effort and serve it in so many ways, making it a go-to for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set this dish and forget it until dinner.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone in your family will love the sweet and tangy flavors of this BBQ chicken.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on buns as sandwiches, or get creative with salads, tacos, and more!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of barbecue sauce, Italian dressing, and spices creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create that mouthwatering BBQ flavor we all crave. Here’s what you need for The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, with fat trimmed off
• 1 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (We love sweet Baby Ray’s Honey BBQ)
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing (I use this fat-free one)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (can reduce to 1/8 cup or omit if you prefer it less sweet)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for richer flavor and moisture.
• Add some heat: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce if you like a little spice.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with different barbecue sauces—smoky, spicy, or even homemade!
• Make it smoky: Add some smoked paprika into the mix for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot

Start by liberally spraying the inside of your large crockpot or slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. If you want to make cleanup even easier, consider using disposable liners. This step ensures that your delicious BBQ chicken doesn’t stick!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Next, season your trimmed boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. This seasoning blends perfectly into the layers of flavor as they cook. Place these seasoned beauties at the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, combine your barbecue sauce, Italian dressing, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. Pour this delightful mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot.

Step 4: Set It and Forget It

Now it’s time to cover your crockpot! Cook on high for about 2.5-3 hours or low for 5-6 hours. This slow cooking makes sure that every bite is tender and infused with flavor. A meat thermometer is handy here; make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 5: Shred That Chicken

Once fully cooked, you have two options: serve the chicken whole or shred it using two forks right in the crockpot. I love shredding it right there; this allows all those delicious juices from the marinade to soak into every piece!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Finally, serve your shredded BBQ chicken on buns for mouthwatering pulled chicken sandwiches! You can also enjoy it over rice, on pizza, in tacos—or however your heart desires! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

Creating the perfect pulled chicken is all about attention to detail, and I’ve got a few tips to help you achieve BBQ perfection!

• Use Quality Barbecue Sauce: The flavor of your BBQ chicken hinges on the sauce you choose. Opt for a brand that you truly love, as it will infuse your chicken with flavor throughout the cooking process.

• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning your chicken before adding the sauce is essential. It enhances the overall flavor and ensures every bite is delicious.

• Shred While Hot: Shredding the chicken while it’s still warm allows it to soak up more of that tasty sauce, making every bite juicy and flavorful.

• Cook Low and Slow: If you have the time, cooking on low heat not only ensures tender chicken but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped onions or bell peppers into the mix for extra flavor and texture!

How to Serve The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

Serving up this delightful pulled chicken can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present your dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the smoky BBQ flavors.
• Sliced Green Onions: These add a nice crunch and mild onion flavor, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Pickles: Adding pickles gives a tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Side Dishes

• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw is a classic pairing that adds crunch and balances out the richness of the pulled chicken.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a comforting side that pairs perfectly with BBQ flavors, making for a hearty meal.
• Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans offer a savory counterpoint that complements the sweetness of your pulled chicken while adding fiber.
• Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn bring vibrant colors and healthy nutrients to your plate, making your meal well-rounded.

With these serving ideas in mind, you’re set for an unforgettable meal experience featuring The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for quick meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pulled chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chicken into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the BBQ chicken cool fully before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or BBQ sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

Curious about this recipe? Here are some common questions!

Can I use frozen chicken for The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just add an extra hour to your cooking time on low. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees before serving.

What type of barbecue sauce should I use for The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)?

Feel free to use any barbecue sauce you love! Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey BBQ is a favorite, but you can choose a spicy or tangy variety depending on your taste preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure that your barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. Many brands offer great options that fit this dietary need.

How do I serve The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken?

This shredded chicken is versatile! Serve it on buns for sandwiches, add it to tacos, pile it on nachos, or enjoy it over rice or salad.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken as much as I do! This recipe is not only simple but also delivers incredible flavor and tenderness that your family will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, these pulled chicken sandwiches are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!