Save Pin
This effortless crockpot BBQ chicken has become my weeknight dinner hero over the years. Just two main ingredients transform into the most tender, flavorful pulled chicken that's perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or loaded sweet potatoes. The slow cooker does all the work while you focus on other things.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy season when my kids had activities every night of the week. Now they specifically request "that chicken" whenever they see the crockpot on the counter.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts provide the perfect lean protein base and shred beautifully after slow cooking
- BBQ sauce creates all the flavor you need while also keeping the chicken moist during cooking
- Cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency for coating every strand of shredded chicken
- Whole wheat buns optional but recommended for making the most satisfying sandwiches
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce
- Whether using store bought or homemade BBQ sauce, have it ready to go. If making homemade, allow about 15 minutes to prepare it. The homemade version adds incredible depth that elevates the entire dish beyond what most store bought options can offer.
- Arrange the Chicken
- Place chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures even cooking throughout. Be careful not to stack or overlap the chicken as this will result in uneven cooking and potentially undercooked portions.
- Add the Sauce
- Pour BBQ sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly. Use a spoon to ensure the sauce covers every inch of chicken. This prevents any dry spots and infuses maximum flavor during the slow cooking process.
- Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on high for 1½ to 2½ hours or on low for 4 to 5 hours. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and easily pulls apart with a fork. Longer isn't necessarily better with chicken breasts as they can dry out.
- Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken to a cutting board and shred using two forks. You can either shred on the board or directly in the slow cooker. The chicken should pull apart easily with minimal effort, creating tender strands perfect for absorbing sauce.
- Thicken the Sauce
- Whisk the cornstarch slurry into the remaining sauce in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will transform from thin to clingy, perfect for coating each piece of chicken.
- Combine and Serve
- Return the shredded chicken to the thickened sauce and toss until every piece is coated. This ensures maximum flavor in every bite and prevents the chicken from drying out when served.
Save Pin
The cornstarch slurry is my secret weapon in this recipe. I accidentally skipped it once and while the chicken was still delicious, that perfectly thick sauce that clings to each strand of meat really makes this dish special. My family immediately noticed the difference and now I never skip this step.
Storing Leftovers
This BBQ chicken maintains its delicious flavor even days after cooking. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor actually develops and deepens overnight, making day two leftovers sometimes better than day one. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce if needed to maintain moisture.
Creative Serving Ideas
While a classic sandwich on a whole wheat bun is always a hit, this versatile chicken works beautifully in many applications. Try it in quesadillas with melted cheese for a quick lunch. Stuff it into baked sweet potatoes for a nutritious dinner that balances sweet and savory. Add it to grain bowls with fresh vegetables for a protein packed meal. My family's current favorite is BBQ chicken nachos where we layer it with cheese, beans, and fresh toppings.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Substitute chicken thighs for even juicier results that are more forgiving if you accidentally overcook. Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors from spicy chipotle to sweet honey or smoky mesquite to create entirely different flavor profiles. Add extra seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a dash of liquid smoke to customize to your taste preferences.
Save Pin
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and often result in even more tender meat. The cooking process remains the same, though thighs may require slightly less cooking time since they're more forgiving and less prone to drying out.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily with two forks. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model, but typically takes 1½-2½ hours on high or 4-5 hours on low.
- → What are the best ways to serve this shredded BBQ chicken?
This versatile chicken is delicious served on whole wheat or pretzel buns for sandwiches, tucked into quesadillas with cheese, or piled atop baked sweet potatoes with green onions. It also works well in wraps, on nachos, or as a protein-packed salad topping.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This BBQ chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
- → Is there a quicker way to thicken the sauce?
Yes, for a faster method, transfer the sauce to a saucepan, whisk in the cornstarch slurry, and cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until thickened. If your slow cooker insert is stovetop-safe, you can place it directly on the burner (be certain it's stovetop-safe first).
- → What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
You can use homemade BBQ sauce (which takes about 15 minutes to prepare) or your favorite store-bought variety. Sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy - the choice depends on your flavor preference. The homemade version allows you to control ingredients and customize the flavor profile.