ingredients needed
To make this delicious BBQ Chicken Crock Pot recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and tender dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite brand or make your own homemade BBQ sauce for a personal touch.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar – This adds a tangy kick and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar – For a touch of sweetness that balances the tanginess of the vinegar and BBQ sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and umami to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic note.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and adds a savory base to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a hint of smokiness that elevates the BBQ flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season the chicken to your liking before cooking.
These ingredients will create a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet BBQ sauce that perfectly coats the tender chicken as it slow cooks in the Crock Pot. Make sure to gather everything before you start, so the process goes smoothly!
step-by-step instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this BBQ Chicken Crock Pot recipe. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure your chicken turns out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
- Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help enhance the natural flavor of the chicken and ensure it’s well-seasoned throughout the cooking process.
- Step 2: Mix the sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated and the sauce is smooth. This mixture will serve as the base for your BBQ chicken.
- Step 3: Add the chicken to the Crock Pot
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of your Crock Pot. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer to ensure even cooking. If you’re using chicken thighs instead, follow the same process.
- Step 4: Pour the sauce over the chicken
Once the chicken is in the Crock Pot, pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the top. Use a spoon or spatula to make sure each piece of chicken is fully coated with the sauce. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken as it cooks.
- Step 5: Cook on low
Set your Crock Pot to the low setting and cook the chicken for 6 to 7 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours, but cooking on low will result in more tender and flavorful chicken. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this can release heat and extend the cooking time.
- Step 6: Shred the chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the Crock Pot. The chicken should easily pull apart. Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce, making sure it’s well coated. Let it sit in the sauce for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on the warm setting to absorb even more flavor.
And that’s it! Your BBQ chicken is now ready to be served. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is juicy and infused with the rich, tangy BBQ sauce. Keep reading for tips on how to serve and store this delicious dish.
tips for serving and storage
When it comes to serving your BBQ Chicken Crock Pot dish, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. The shredded BBQ chicken is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of meals. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: Pile the shredded chicken onto soft sandwich buns or brioche rolls. Add a little extra BBQ sauce if you like it saucy, and top with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. This is a classic way to enjoy BBQ chicken and is perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
- Tacos or Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the BBQ chicken in soft tortillas or lettuce wraps. Add toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, and a drizzle of ranch or sour cream for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes: If you’re looking for a heartier meal, serve the BBQ chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. The sauce will soak into the rice or potatoes, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: Use the shredded chicken as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza dough. Add some mozzarella cheese, red onions, and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce before baking. This is a fun and creative way to repurpose leftovers!
- Salad Topping: For a healthier option, serve the BBQ chicken over a fresh green salad. Add ingredients like corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette or ranch dressing to complement the BBQ flavors.
As for storage, this BBQ chicken keeps well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can affect the texture.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, the BBQ chicken freezes beautifully. Place the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating: To reheat, you can warm the chicken in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
With these serving ideas and storage tips, you can enjoy your BBQ Chicken Crock Pot recipe in a variety of ways, whether it’s fresh out of the slow cooker or reheated for a quick and easy meal later in the week.