Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot BBQ Chicken recipe is the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. With minimal preparation, you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken infused with smoky, tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for busy weekdays or weekend gatherings, this recipe is effortlessly delicious and versatile. Whether you serve it on sandwiches, over rice, or with a side of coleslaw, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, making sure they are evenly coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds with a fork.
Once done, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the sauce.
Serve immediately over buns, rice, or any side of your choice.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Cook time: 6-7 hours on low

Variations

Add vegetables: You can add diced onions, bell peppers, or carrots into the crockpot for extra flavor and nutrients.
Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
Slow Cooker with Frozen Chicken: If you’re short on time, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it will increase the cooking time to around 7-8 hours.
BBQ Chicken Tacos: Use the shredded BBQ chicken to fill soft tacos or wraps for a delicious variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or stovetop. If it feels too dry, add a splash of BBQ sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken works too! Just note that it will require a little more time to cook, typically 7-8 hours on low. Also, you’ll need to remove the bones before serving.

Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and can hold up better in the crockpot. They’ll also become very tender and shred easily.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

To make this dish lighter, you can use a lower-sugar BBQ sauce or opt for homemade BBQ sauce with less sugar.

Can I cook this on high instead of low in the crockpot?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 3 to 4 hours, but the chicken may not be as tender as when cooked on low.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and can easily be shredded with a fork.

Can I add extra BBQ sauce after cooking?

Definitely! Once the chicken is shredded, you can add more BBQ sauce if you prefer a saucier version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken in the crockpot and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of sauce besides BBQ?

Yes, you can experiment with different sauces such as honey mustard, teriyaki, or buffalo sauce for unique flavors.

Can I cook this with frozen chicken?

Yes, you can cook with frozen chicken, but remember to increase the cooking time to 7-8 hours on low.

What should I serve with this BBQ chicken?

This BBQ chicken pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, roasted vegetables, or on top of a salad.

Conclusion

The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken is a foolproof, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the perfect balance of ease and flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a meal that the whole family will love. Whether served on buns, over rice, or in tacos, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for quick and satisfying meals.