Crockpot BBQ Chicken | Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Recipe (2024)

PUBLISHED September 28, 2023· MODIFIED September 28, 2023 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1485 words. · About 8 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you're a fan of tender, smoky, and finger-licking BBQ chicken, you're in for a treat! This Crockpot BBQ Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks who crave the mouthwatering flavors of barbecue without the hassle of grilling.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking. This recipe takes the stress out of barbecue. No need to tend to a grill for hours; just set it and forget it in your crockpot.
• Tender and Juicy. The slow cooking process ensures your chicken turns out incredibly tender and juicy, with flavors that permeate every bite.
• Versatile. You can use this BBQ chicken in various ways – in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or as a main dish with your favorite sides.
• Feeding a Crowd. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or a potluck dinner, this recipe can easily be scaled up to serve a large group.

With minimal hands-on time, this Crockpot BBQ Chicken recipe delivers maximum flavor and tenderness. Whether you're enjoying it at a summer picnic or for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Is It OK To Put Raw Chicken In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, it is safe to put raw chicken in a slow cooker, but there are important food safety guidelines to follow to ensure that the chicken cooks properly and doesn't pose a health risk. Here are some key points to keep in mind when using raw chicken in a slow cooker:

• Use Fresh Chicken. Start with fresh, uncooked chicken. Ensure that the chicken is not past its expiration date and has been stored at a safe temperature.
• Proper Cooking Temperature. Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure that it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken in the thickest part.
• Avoid Overfilling. Don't overfill your slow cooker. Leave some space at the top to allow for proper heat circulation and cooking. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and may lead to food safety issues.

Do I Need To Brown Chicken Before It Goes In The Slow Cooker?

Browning chicken before placing it in the slow cooker is not always necessary, but it can enhance the flavor and appearance of your dish.

Browning or searing caramelizes the surface of the chicken, which can add depth and richness to the overall flavor of your slow-cooked meal.

Does Chicken Need To Be Covered With Liquid In The Crock Pot?

Chicken does not necessarily need to be fully submerged in liquid in the crockpot, but there should be enough liquid to prevent it from drying out and sticking to the pot.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
• Barbecue Sauce
• Brown Sugar
• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Smoked Paprika
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Salt and Pepper

How To Make Crockpot BBQ Chicken

1. Season the chicken. Start by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This gives your chicken a fantastic flavor base.
2. Create a BBQ-infused liquid. In a separate bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. This sauce will be the star of the show, infusing your chicken with rich, smoky flavor.
3. Cover the chicken in sauce. Place the seasoned chicken in your crockpot and pour the BBQ sauce mixture over it. Make sure the chicken is well-coated.
4. Slow cook the BBQ chicken. Set your crockpot to low heat and let it cook for 6-8 hours. The slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors, becoming incredibly tender.
5. Shred the cooked chicken. Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred it using two forks right in the crockpot. The chicken should easily fall apart, soaking up even more of that delectable sauce.
6. Stir and coat. Give everything a good stir, ensuring the shredded chicken is evenly coated in the BBQ sauce.
7. Serve and enjoy! Serve your Crockpot BBQ Chicken in sandwiches, wraps, or on a plate with your favorite sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.

Tips And Tricks

Making Crockpot BBQ chicken is convenient and delicious, and here are some tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

• Chicken Choice- You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner.
• Sauce Selection- Feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce brand or even make your own for a personalized touch.
• Sweetness Level- Adjust the brown sugar to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more; if you prefer it tangier, reduce the sugar.
• Flavor Enhancements- Experiment with additional seasonings like cayenne pepper, chili powder, or liquid smoke for extra depth of flavor.
• Toppings- Load up your sandwiches or wraps with coleslaw, pickles, or thinly sliced red onions for a burst of freshness and crunch.

Variations

Crockpot BBQ chicken is a versatile dish, and there are several variations you can explore to customize the flavor to your liking. Here are some delicious options:

• Spicy BBQ Chicken- Add some heat to your BBQ chicken by mixing in crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Pineapple BBQ Chicken- Add a tropical touch by mixing in some crushed pineapple or pineapple juice to the BBQ sauce. The sweetness and acidity of pineapple complement the smokiness of the chicken.
• Asian BBQ Chicken- Infuse your chicken with Asian flavors by using hoisin sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic in the sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

What To Serve With BBQ Chicken

Crockpot BBQ chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are some delicious options to consider serving alongside your BBQ chicken:

• Keto Coleslaw- A creamy coleslaw adds a cool and tangy contrast to the smoky BBQ flavors. It's a classic side dish for BBQ chicken.
• Baked Beans- Serve up some homemade or canned baked beans for a hearty and flavorful side dish. The sweetness of baked beans pairs nicely with BBQ chicken.
• Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad, whether classic or with a twist, is a great accompaniment. The creamy texture complements the smokiness of the chicken.
• Macaroni and Cheese- A cheesy cauliflower mac and cheese side dish is a comfort food favorite and a perfect match for BBQ chicken.
• Instant Pot Corn on the Cob- Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side. You can brush it with butter and sprinkle with seasoning for extra flavor.

How Long Does It Last?

Crockpot BBQ chicken can be stored safely in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.

After cooking, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly to ensure food safety.

Can You Freeze It?

If you have leftovers that you can't consume within that time frame, consider freezing them for longer storage. Properly stored, frozen Crockpot BBQ chicken can maintain its quality for up to 2 to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, allow them to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the slow cooker, microwave, or stove top, until warmed through.

More Easy Chicken Recipes

• Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
• Instant Pot Butter Chicken
• Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
• Keto Chicken Tenders
• Creamy Garlic Chicken

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