The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious, try my Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken). This recipe has become a family favorite in our home, and I know it will be in yours too! The combination of tender chicken and flavorful BBQ sauce makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Just set it and forget it; your slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy your day.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a cozy meal at home, these pulled chicken sandwiches are sure to impress everyone at the table. Trust me, once you taste this succulent BBQ chicken, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this recipe comes together effortlessly—perfect for busy days!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love BBQ pulled chicken, making it a hit for any mealtime.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Simply set your crockpot in the morning, and you’ll come home to a warm, hearty meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on buns, over rice, or even as a topping for nachos—endless possibilities await!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of BBQ sauce and spices creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You might already have many of these staples in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, with fat trimmed off
• 1 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (We love sweet Baby Ray’s Honey BBQ)
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing (I use this fat-free one)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (can reduce to 1/8 cup or omit if you prefer it less sweet)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or chicken thighs instead of breasts for a different flavor and texture.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or onions for added nutrition and taste.
• Make it spicy: Add some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to give the dish a kick!
• Go low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps instead of buns for a lighter option.

How to Make The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot

First liberally spray the inside of a large crockpot or slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. For less mess, you can also use disposable liners. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup so much easier!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Next, season your trimmed boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Placing them at the bottom of your crockpot ensures they soak up all those delicious flavors as they cook.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add barbecue sauce, Italian dressing, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until combined—this mixture is what makes our chicken so flavorful!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts. Then place the lid on your crockpot. Cook on high for 2.5–3 hours or low for 5–6 hours. The aroma that fills your kitchen during cooking is simply heavenly!

Step 5: Check the Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. This step is important for safety but also ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Once fully cooked, you can either serve whole or use two forks to shred chicken right in the crockpot. I love shredding it in there so that every bite gets infused with all that yummy marinade.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve on buns for delicious BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches or get creative—try it on pizza, salad, tacos, nachos, over rice, or simply enjoy it by itself. No matter how you choose to serve it, I know you’re going to love every bite! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

Creating the perfect pulled chicken is all about technique and a little love! Here are some pro tips to elevate your BBQ chicken game.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Start with fresh, high-quality chicken breasts and BBQ sauce. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Skip the Seasoning – Properly seasoning your chicken before cooking enhances the overall taste. The right balance of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder brings out the best in your dish.
• Let It Rest – Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps retain moisture, making your pulled chicken even juicier.
• Shred in Sauce – Shredding the chicken directly in the crockpot allows it to absorb all those fantastic flavors from the sauce, making it extra delicious!
• Experiment with Sauces – Feel free to switch up the BBQ sauce or Italian dressing based on your taste preferences. Trying different flavors can lead to exciting new variations!

How to Serve The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

Serving your pulled chicken can be as fun as preparing it! Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will surely impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a refreshing flavor that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
• Sliced Green Onions – These add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the tender chicken.
• Pickles – Adding a few slices of dill pickles on top provides an extra tangy kick that balances out the sweetness of the barbecue sauce.

Side Dishes

• Coleslaw – This crunchy, creamy side dish is a classic pairing for BBQ pulled chicken. It adds texture and helps cut through the richness of the meat.
• Cornbread – Soft, sweet cornbread makes for an excellent accompaniment. Its slightly sweet flavor complements the savory BBQ perfectly.
• Baked Beans – A hearty serving of baked beans rounds out your meal wonderfully with its smoky flavor and protein boost.
• Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted vegetables provide a healthy balance to your meal, adding nutrients and vibrancy to your plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal with The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken is perfect for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Ensure the chicken has cooled down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your pulled chicken, make sure it’s fully cooled.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, you can use the microwave or place it back in the crockpot on low until warmed through.
• Stir occasionally and add a splash of BBQ sauce if needed to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken!

Can I use frozen chicken for The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken?

Yes! You can start with frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by an hour on high or two hours on low. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I make The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken spicier?

If you prefer a kick, add some cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture before pouring it over the chicken. Adjust according to your heat preference!

What can I serve with The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken?

This pulled chicken pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob. You can also enjoy it over rice or in wraps for a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken! It’s not just about the delicious flavors but also about creating wonderful memories around the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to try it out for your next meal; I know you’ll love every bite!