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Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 0h 10m
  • Cook Time: 6h 0m
  • Total Time: 6h 10m
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe is a simple and flavorful dish perfect for busy days. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with a tangy, smoky BBQ sauce and a blend of spices, then shredded and simmered to soak up all the delicious flavors. Ideal for sandwiches, rice bowls, or a hearty main course, it offers a hands-off cooking experience with a satisfying, home-cooked result.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Sauce

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

  1. Place Chicken in Slow Cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker in an even layer.
  2. Add BBQ Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well covered on all sides.
  3. Add Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth around the chicken breasts in the slow cooker to add moisture and help cooking.
  4. Sprinkle Brown Sugar: Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar on top of the chicken and sauce mixture.
  5. Add Apple Cider Vinegar: Pour the apple cider vinegar into the slow cooker to add a slight tangy flavor.
  6. Add Garlic Powder: Sprinkle garlic powder evenly over the chicken and sauce.
  7. Add Onion Powder: Add onion powder and spread it evenly across the top.
  8. Add Smoked Paprika: Sprinkle smoked paprika over the chicken for a smoky depth.
  9. Season with Salt and Pepper: Season the mixture evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
  10. Cover and Cook: Place the lid on the slow cooker securely.
  11. Slow Cook the Chicken: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6 to 7 hours, or until the chicken is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
  12. Remove Chicken: Carefully remove the fully cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a large plate or cutting board.
  13. Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken into small pieces until thoroughly pulled apart.
  14. Return Shredded Chicken: Put the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and stir it into the remaining sauce to soak up the flavors.
  15. Let it Sit: Allow the shredded chicken to sit in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes on low to absorb more flavor.
  16. Serve: Serve the flavorful pulled chicken on hamburger buns, over rice, or with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Use a good quality BBQ sauce that suits your taste preference, whether smoky, sweet, or spicy.
  • Adjust the seasoning with more or less salt and pepper according to your taste.
  • For a thicker sauce, you can cook the shredded chicken uncovered on low for another 15-20 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with coleslaw for a classic pulled chicken sandwich option.