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The Best Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken: Easy Slow Cooker Recipe

Close-up of shredded bbq chicken generously coated in dark, glossy barbecue sauce, served on a white platter.

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Make incredibly tender, juicy BBQ pulled chicken using your slow cooker. This easy crockpot chicken recipe requires minimal effort and is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd with sweet and tangy flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 (18 ounce) bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, water or broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until combined.
  3. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds.
  5. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks.
  6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it well to coat it completely with the remaining sauce.
  7. Cook on the WARM setting for 15 minutes to allow the meat to absorb the flavor.
  8. Serve the juicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns for sandwiches or over rice.

Notes

  • For pulled chicken sandwiches, drain off about half of the excess liquid before returning the shredded meat to the pot.
  • This recipe is excellent for making ahead; it freezes well for up to three months.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the most tender results.

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