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Crockpot BBQ Chicken Recipe: Easy Slow Cooker Dinner
There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of BBQ chicken, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a crockpot. This Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken Recipe will be your go-to choice for family dinners, summer gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself enjoying tender, flavorful chicken without much fuss.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is perfect when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking method brings out the great flavors of the BBQ sauce while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. It’s versatile, too! You can serve it on its own, in sandwiches, or even as a topping for salads. Plus, making it in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other activities.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Buns for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for serving)
How to make it
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve on buns and top with coleslaw if desired.
How to serve it
To enjoy this tasty BBQ chicken, simply load it onto soft buns. You can add a generous scoop of coleslaw on top for a crunchy texture and refreshing contrast. It also works well as a filling for lettuce wraps if you’re looking for a lighter option.
How to store it
Leftover BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Helpful tips
- Ensure the chicken breasts are laid flat in the crockpot for even cooking.
- Taste the sauce before adding salt and pepper; some BBQ sauces are already salty.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Optional variations
If you want to switch things up, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the crockpot for added flavor and texture. You can also try different BBQ sauces to match your taste—spicy, sweet, or tangy!
Frequently asked questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time will be longer. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours or on low for 8-9 hours, checking that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
You can use any BBQ sauce you enjoy! Each type will impart its unique flavor. Consider trying a smoky or tangy sauce for a different taste.
Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?
Absolutely! You can make this on the stovetop or in the oven. Simply simmer the chicken in the sauce on low heat in a pot on the stovetop for about 30-40 minutes, or bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes, until cooked through.
Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Enjoy tender and flavorful BBQ chicken effortlessly made in a crockpot, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite flavor
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serving Options
- Buns for serving Soft buns recommended
- Coleslaw (optional) For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cooking
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce.
Serving
- Serve on buns and top with coleslaw if desired.
Notes
Leftover BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat by thawing and warming on the stove or microwave. Ensure even cooking by laying chicken flat in the crockpot. Taste the sauce before adding salt and pepper; BBQ sauces vary in saltiness. For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers for added flavor.
