Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken combines tender chicken breasts with a rich blend of BBQ sauce and brown sugar, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s versatile enough for sliders, nachos, quesadillas, and beyond.
You will love this Pulled BBQ Chicken Crock Pot Meal!
My BBQ Pulled Chicken Breast recipe is just the recipe you’ve been looking for! It’s packed with flavor and has that sweet kick we all love. Best part? It’s a breeze to cook up in the crockpot. And, trust me, your whole family’s going to love it. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can throw it in a taco, put it on a salad, make a killer sandwich, or just pair it with some coleslaw. It’s one of those go-to recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to time and again.
BBQ Chicken Crock Pot ingredients
- Chicken Breasts
- BBQ Sauce
- Brown Sugar
- White Vinegar
- Cayenne Pepper
- Garlic Powder
What BBQ Sauce is best for making Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken?
The best BBQ sauce for making Crock pot BBQ Pulled Chicken truly hinges on personal preference, shaped by the flavors you and your loved ones. However, if you need a starting point to the world of BBQ sauces, here’s a list of types to consider:
Regular/Traditional BBQ Sauces:
- Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce: A classic favorite known for its thick consistency and balanced sweet-smoky flavor.
- Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce: A household name, it offers a familiar, tangy tomato-based flavor.
Smoky Flavored BBQ Sauces:
- Stubbs Original Bar-B-Q Sauce: This sauce is Texas-inspired and is known for its deep smoky undertones and tanginess.
- Bull’s-Eye Original BBQ Sauce: Another well-loved sauce with a pronounced smoky flavor.
Honey Flavored BBQ Sauces:
- Great Value Honey BBQ Sauce: A sweet and tangy option that blends BBQ flavor with the richness of honey.
- Jack Daniel’s Honey Smokehouse: Infused with a sweet honey taste, it also offers a subtle smokiness.
Spicy BBQ Sauces:
- Frank’s RedHot Original BBQ Sauce: Brings the heat with its characteristic kick.
- Stubbs Spicy Bar-B-Q Sauce: Offers a spicy twist to their traditional sauce, for those who like a little burn.
Vinegar-Based (Carolina style) BBQ Sauces:
- Bone Suckin’ Sauce: A thin, tangy sauce based on the Carolina tradition.
- Scott’s Barbecue Sauce: Authentic Carolina style, this sauce is vinegar-heavy and pepper-spiced.
Experimenting with different brands and flavors is something I highly suggest. Every palate is different and takes you on its own adventure!
How to make Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
Crock Pot Cooking Instructions:
1. Begin by trimming the fat off the chicken. While the chicken is still out on the cutting board, lightly season the breasts with Cayenne Pepper and Garlic Powder. My family likes them to have a little kick, so I season mine a little heavier with the Cayenne Pepper. Feel free to omit this step, if your family doesn’t like any spice to their BBQ Chicken.
2. Add the chicken to the crock pot. Top the chicken with the BBQ Sauce, Brown Sugar and Vinegar. Use a spoon to mix it all together ensuring that the chicken breasts are all coated with the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours or until chicken is thoroughly cooked through and tender enough to be easily shredded. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
4. Once done, shred the chicken. You can do this down in the crockpot or by removing it onto a cutting board or plate. If removed, return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir well with the sauce. Allow the chicken to marinade in the sauce on warm for 20-30 minutes for flavors to meld.
Pam’s Tip: Hands down my favorite way to make this recipe is in the Crockpot! The slow, gentle cooking process allows the chicken to marinate and tenderize in the BBQ sauce.
While I personally lean towards the crockpot for this recipe, I’ve also got you covered with Instant Pot and oven instructions!
Instant Pot Cooking Instructions:
- Follow steps 1 and 2 of the instructions under Crock Pot Cooking Instructions, adding the chicken breasts to the Instant Pot.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the vent is set to ‘Sealing’. Cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ mode on HIGH for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then turn the vent to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining pressure.
Oven Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish.
- Follow steps 1 and 2 of the instructions under Crock Pot Cooking Instructions, adding the chicken breasts to a 9×13 glass pan. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Make sure the internal temperature of chicken has reached 165 degrees F.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Transfer the chicken to a plate and shred using two forks. After shredding, return it to the baking dish and mix well with the sauce.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Crock Pot Tips
- Chicken Type: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used for pulled chicken due to their lean nature, but thighs can be used too.
- Serving: Serving the chicken right from the crockpot can be convenient, but if you prefer a caramelized top, you can spread the cooked chicken on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until the tops get crispy.
- Spice Adjustments: If you’re uncertain about the heat level, start with a lesser amount of cayenne. You can always add more towards the end of cooking for an extra kick. This way, you can adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s preference.
Can you overcook chicken in the crock pot?
Yes, you can overcook chicken in the crockpot. While slow cookers are great for keeping meats tender due to the long, slow cooking process, there’s still a risk of overcooking, especially when using lean cuts like chicken breasts. Overcooked chicken can become dry, tough, and less flavorful. It’s always a good idea to check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it’s done but not overcooked. Ideally, it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How to serve Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
The versatility of my BBQ Pulled Chicken Breast means it can be incorporated into many dishes. Here are some scrumptious ways to enjoy it:
- Sandwiches: Pile it high between two buns, perhaps with a bit of coleslaw or pickles for added crunch.
- Tacos: Spoon it into soft or crispy taco shells, topped with your favorite fixings.
- Salads: Mix it with greens, corn, black beans, and a tangy dressing for a hearty salad.
- Loaded Nachos: Spread it over tortilla chips, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until melty. Top with jalapeños and sour cream.
- Pizzas: Use it as a unique pizza topping, complemented with red onions, jalapeños, and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.
- Baked Potatoes: Stuff it into a steaming baked potato and top with cheese, green onions, and sour cream.
- Wraps: Roll it into a tortilla or lettuce wrap with some fresh veggies for a light and flavorful lunch.
- Quesadillas: Layer it with cheese between two tortillas and cook until crispy for a delightful twist on the classic quesadilla.
Crockpot BBQ Chicken Freezer Meal Variation
What makes this BBQ pulled chicken recipe even more of a gem is its versatility as a fantastic freezer meal option. Picture those busy days when all you need to do is pull out a flavorful dish from the freezer the day before, let it thaw, and then effortlessly cook it in your crockpot or Instant Pot the next day. Pure culinary convenience! If you’re enthusiastic about stepping up your meal prep game, I’ve detailed everything you need in a dedicated post. There, you’ll not only find the ins and outs of prepping this dish for the freezer but also six other Easy Chicken Crockpot Freezer Meals. Each is paired with comprehensive directions and sprinkled with handy tips and tricks.
What to serve with Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
- Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the rich BBQ chicken.
- Cornbread or Rolls: Soft rolls or a slice of cornbread can be used to mop up any extra sauce or even make mini sandwiches.
- Baked Beans: A side of beans, especially if they have a hint of smoke or spice, can be a hearty addition.
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, this dish provides a comforting counterpoint to the savory pulled chicken.
- Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad, especially one with a bit of mustard or vinegar, can balance out the warm, rich flavors of the chicken.
- Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchinis, and asparagus grilled to perfection add a healthy and tasty side option.
- Corn Casserole or Corn on the Cob: A cornbread base corn casserole or corn on the cob grilled with some chili powder or simply buttered, it’s a great match for BBQ chicken.
- Sweet Potato Fries or French Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these are always a crowd-pleaser.
How to store leftover BBQ Chicken
After savoring the BBQ pulled chicken, it’s vital to store leftovers correctly. Cool the chicken to room temperature within two hours, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it (labeled with the date) for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat thoroughly before serving.
BBQ Shredded Chicken Crock Pot FAQs
This usually happens when the chicken’s been cooked too long. Even in a saucy environment, chicken breasts can lose their juiciness after a while. To keep your BBQ chicken tender, try not to overcook it. To avoid this, monitor cooking times and consider using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken doesn’t exceed its ideal internal temperature of 165°F.
When making BBQ chicken in the crock pot, you might wonder if the chicken needs to be fully submerged in liquid. The answer is nope! Chicken releases its own juices as it cooks, and when combined with the BBQ sauce, it provides plenty of moisture. As it slow-cooks, the sauce will meld with the chicken’s natural juices, giving you tender, flavorful BBQ chicken without the need to drown it in liquid.
Absolutely! Cooking chicken in a crock pot, or any slow cooker, uses low and slow heat, which helps break down the fibers and connective tissues in the meat, making it super tender. Using the crock pot is especially beneficial for tougher cuts, but even lean cuts like chicken breasts can turn out incredibly moist and tender when done right in a crock pot. Just don’t overcook the meat, as that can lead to a drier or rubbery texture.
No, don’t rinse chicken before slow cooking. The USDA warns against it because it can spread harmful bacteria around the kitchen. Instead, move the chicken directly from its packaging to the cooker. and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe.
I hope you enjoy this BBQ pulled chicken recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite, plus all the tips you need to savor the leftovers. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish promises flavor and satisfaction in every bite. Until next time, happy cooking and even happier eating!
If you’ve tried this recipe, I’d love it if you’d comment and rate the recipe below! I love to hear feedback and answer questions!
BBQ Pulled Chicken (Crock Pot)
Ingredients
- 4-6 Chicken Breasts cleaned and trimmed
- 12 oz BBQ Sauce
- ½ cup Brown Sugar if you like it extra sweet, feel free to add a little more
- ¼ cup White Vinegar
- ¼-1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper adjust to liking
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Instructions
Crock Pot Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by trimming the fat off the chicken. While the chicken breast is still out on the cutting board, lightly season the breasts with Cayenne Pepper and Garlic Powder. My family likes them to have a little kick, so I season mine a little heavier with the Cayenne Pepper. Feel free to omit this step, if your family doesn't like any spice to their BBQ Chicken.
- Add the chicken to the crock pot. Top the chicken with the BBQ Sauce, Brown Sugar and Vinegar. Use a spoon to mix it all together ensuring that the chicken breasts are all coated with the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours or until chicken is thoroughly cooked through and tender enough to be easily shredded. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.
- Once done, either shred the chicken down in the crockpot using two forksor the remove chicken from the crockpot and shred. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir well with the sauce. Allow the chicken to marinade in the sauce on warm for 20-30 minutes for flavors to meld.
Instant Pot Cooking Instructions:
- Follow steps 1 and 2 of the instructions under Crock Pot Cooking Instructions, adding the chicken breasts to the Instant Pot.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the vent is set to 'Sealing'. Cook on 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode on HIGH for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then turn the vent to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure.
Oven Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish.
- Follow steps 1 and 2 of the instructions under Crock Pot Cooking Instructions, adding the chicken breasts to a 9×13 glass pan. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Make sure the internal temperature of chicken has reached 165 degrees.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Transfer the chicken to a plate and shred using two forks. After shredding, return it to the baking dish and mix well with the sauce.
Video
Notes
- Sandwiches: Pile it high between two buns, perhaps with a bit of coleslaw or pickles for added crunch.
- Tacos: Spoon it into soft or crispy taco shells, topped with your favorite fixings.
- Salads: Mix it with greens, corn, black beans, and a tangy dressing for a hearty salad.
- Loaded Nachos: Spread it over tortilla chips, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until melty. Top with jalapeños and sour cream.
- Pizzas: Use it as a unique pizza topping, complemented with red onions, jalapeños, and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.
- Baked Potatoes: Stuff it into a steaming baked potato and top with cheese, green onions, and sour cream.
- Wraps: Roll it into a tortilla or lettuce wrap with some fresh veggies for a light and flavorful lunch.
- Quesadillas: Layer it with cheese between two tortillas and cook until crispy for a delightful twist on the classic quesadilla.
Nutrition
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Toni
This is absolutely amazing! Thank you so much for sharing your recipe!
Pam Dana
I’m glad you loved it!
Sara T
Finally a recipe my whole family loves! I made regular sandwiches for the kids and lettuce wraps for the hubby and me!
Pam Dana
Yay! I love how diverse this recipe is! I’m so glad you all liked it!
Kristen
This chicken was so good, it had so much flavor and was so tender.
Pam Dana
I’m so glad you loved it!!