This Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken is a total crowd-pleaser! You just toss chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, and a few spices in, and let the slow cooker do all the work.
It’s so easy that even I can make it (and I’m not known for my cooking skills!). Serve it on buns for a tasty meal or just enjoy it as is—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for pulled chicken as they’re easy to shred after cooking. If you have thighs on hand, those will work too and add a richer flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce to get the flavor just right! If you want to make it your own, try a homemade sauce, or substitute with a sauce that is lower in sugar or gluten-free based on your needs.
Onion and Garlic: Both add a fantastic depth of flavor. You can swap fresh garlic and onion for their powdered versions (1/2 teaspoons each), but fresh ingredients definitely make a difference.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a great smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can be used. Adjust the amount depending on your heat preference.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and enhances flavor. Feel free to use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, but broth will give you the best taste!
How Do I Get Juicy, Shredded Chicken Every Time?
The trick to tender pulled chicken is cooking slowly and thoroughly. The crockpot does the work for you! Here’s how to ensure juicy results:
- Always make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the sauce. This keeps it moist and flavorful.
- Set your crockpot to low for best results. Cooking on high works too, but low is ideal for tender, easily shreddable chicken.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps it maintain moisture.
- Lastly, mixing the shredded chicken back into the BBQ sauce for a few minutes lets it soak up more flavors. Yum!
How to Make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For Serving (Optional):
- hamburger buns
- additional BBQ sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. Then, you’ll let it cook in the crockpot for 4-8 hours, depending on your setting. It’s perfect for a busy day—just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce Base:
Start by adding the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and BBQ sauce to the bottom of your crockpot. Give everything a good stir to mix it well. This will be the delicious base for your pulled chicken!
2. Add Chicken and Season:
Now, place the chicken breasts into the crockpot, making sure they are fully submerged in the sauce mixture. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder all over the chicken. This will give it amazing flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and shreds easily with a fork. If you’re gone all day, the low setting works perfectly!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. It’s super easy and should come apart nicely. Be careful, it will be hot!
5. Mix and Heat:
Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot, stirring it in with the BBQ sauce. Let it heat for an additional 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, it’s time to dig in! Serve the pulled chicken on hamburger buns with extra BBQ sauce on the side if you like. Enjoy your scrumptious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to cook them longer! If cooking on low, plan for about 8-10 hours. For high, aim for 6 hours. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth with water or another liquid like vegetable broth or apple juice for a slightly sweet flavor. Just remember, using water might make the dish less flavorful, so consider adding more spices if you go that route!
How Should I Store Leftover Pulled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, transfer the pulled chicken to a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Customize the BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own. Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit of honey can enhance the flavor. Experiment with different styles like spicy, smoky, or sweet to suit your taste!
