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Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Elizabeth
  • Prep Time: 0h 10m
  • Cook Time: 6h 0m
  • Total Time: 6h 10m
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and tender chicken dish cooked low and slow with a tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for sandwiches, rice bowls, or as a hearty main dish. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, it’s a family-friendly meal that delivers juicy, shreddable chicken bursting with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sauce

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the slow cooker: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker, laying them flat for even cooking.
  2. Add BBQ sauce: Pour 1 cup of BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are completely covered to imbue flavor during cooking.
  3. Pour chicken broth: Add 1/2 cup chicken broth by pouring it around the chicken to provide moisture and help keep it tender.
  4. Sprinkle brown sugar: Evenly distribute 1 tablespoon of brown sugar over the chicken to enhance the sauce’s sweetness.
  5. Add apple cider vinegar: Pour in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to introduce a tangy depth to the flavor profile.
  6. Season with garlic powder: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder over the chicken for a savory note.
  7. Season with onion powder: Add 1 teaspoon onion powder evenly over the contents of the slow cooker to build flavor complexity.
  8. Add smoked paprika: Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika on top to impart a subtle smoky aroma and taste.
  9. Season with salt and pepper: Evenly sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for seasoning balance.
  10. Cover and cook: Place the slow cooker lid on securely and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
  11. Remove chicken: Carefully take the cooked chicken breasts out of the slow cooker and place on a plate or cutting board.
  12. Shred chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken apart into small, bite-sized pieces.
  13. Return chicken to sauce: Place the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and stir it thoroughly to coat it with the cooking juices and BBQ sauce.
  14. Let it absorb flavors: Allow the shredded chicken to sit in the sauce for 10 more minutes to soak up additional flavor.
  15. Serve: Serve the BBQ pulled chicken as desired, such as on hamburger buns, over steamed rice, or with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the slow cooker.
  • Leftover pulled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • The chicken is best shredded when it is hot and fresh out of the slow cooker.
  • Use your preferred BBQ sauce flavor—sweet, smoky, or spicy—to customize the taste.
  • If you prefer, thighs can replace chicken breasts for juicier pulled chicken.

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Find it online: https://easycookingworld.com/slow-cooker-bbq-pulled-chicken-recipe/