The Best Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken is tender, juicy, and packed with smoky-sweet barbecue flavor. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, let it cook low and slow, and enjoy a mouthwatering pulled chicken dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or wraps!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless slow cooking – Let your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day.
• Juicy, tender chicken – Cooks to perfection and shreds easily with a fork.
• Bold, smoky BBQ flavor – Sweet, tangy, and customizable with your favorite sauce.
• Versatile – Serve on sandwiches, in wraps, over rice, or with a side of veggies.
• Meal prep-friendly – Makes a large batch that stores well for easy leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Apple cider vinegar (for tang)
• Brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper
• Buns, coleslaw, or pickles for serving (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the slow cooker.
2. Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour over the chicken: Cover the chicken completely with the sauce mixture.
4. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
5. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the sauce. Stir well to coat the shredded chicken.
6. Serve: Pile the pulled chicken onto buns, over rice, or alongside veggies. Add extra BBQ sauce or coleslaw if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)
• Total Time: 6-8 hours

Variations

• Spicy BBQ Pulled Chicken – Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Honey BBQ Version – Add 2 tablespoons of honey for a sweeter flavor.
• Vinegar-Based BBQ – Use a vinegar-based sauce for a tangy Southern twist.
• Buffalo Pulled Chicken – Swap BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and serve with ranch dressing.
• Low-Sugar Option – Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and skip the brown sugar.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker for even cooking.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Any BBQ sauce works! Choose a sweet, smoky, or spicy sauce based on your preference. Homemade sauces also work great.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful but take the same amount of time to cook.

How do I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Use a low-carb BBQ sauce and skip the brown sugar for a keto-friendly version.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Simmer the chicken and sauce over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.

How do I prevent dry chicken?

Cook on low heat for juicier chicken, and avoid overcooking to prevent it from drying out.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Yes, sliced onions or bell peppers add extra flavor and texture.

What sides go well with BBQ pulled chicken?

Coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or a fresh green salad are all great options.

Can I use pork instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Pork shoulder or pork loin works well with the same method and ingredients.

How do I serve pulled chicken for a party?

Serve it buffet-style with buns, toppings, and sides, or use it as a filling for sliders or tacos.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal—tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a hearty sandwich, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides and toppings for the ultimate comfort food experience!

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