Are you looking for a mouth-watering, fall-apart tender BBQ pulled chicken recipe that’s incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves the rich, tangy flavors of BBQ sauce and the convenience of a hands-off cooking method.
Why Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken is a Winner
There are many reasons why slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken is a winner in the kitchen. Here are just a few:
- Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal prep time and effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Tender and juicy: The slow cooker does all the work, breaking down the connective tissues in the chicken and leaving it tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of BBQ sauce to your liking, add your favorite spices or herbs, and even use different types of chicken (such as boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs).
The Best Slow Cooker for BBQ Pulled Chicken
When it comes to slow cookers, there are many options available on the market. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the best slow cooker for BBQ pulled chicken:
- Size: A 6-quart slow cooker is a good size for this recipe, as it allows for even cooking and easy shredding of the chicken.
- Temperature control: Look for a slow cooker with adjustable temperature control, as this will allow you to customize the cooking time and temperature to your liking.
- Ease of cleaning: A slow cooker with a removable insert and easy-to-clean design is a must-have for anyone who hates scrubbing away at stubborn food residue.
Recommended Slow Cookers for BBQ Pulled Chicken
Here are a few slow cookers that are highly rated and perfect for BBQ pulled chicken:
- Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Cook & Carry Slow Cooker
- Hamilton Beach Set & Forget 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker
- Instant Pot 6-Quart 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker
The Ultimate Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to dive into the ultimate slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Coleslaw, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Instructions
- In the slow cooker, whisk together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the slow cooker and coat with the BBQ sauce mixture.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- After 8 hours, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the BBQ sauce mixture.
- Split the hamburger buns or sandwich rolls in half and spoon the BBQ pulled chicken onto the buns.
- Top with coleslaw, pickles, and any other desired toppings.
Tips and Variations for Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken
Here are a few tips and variations to take your slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken to the next level:
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the BBQ sauce mixture for an extra kick.
- Get creative with toppings: Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, or add some diced onions or bell peppers to the BBQ pulled chicken.
- Use different types of BBQ sauce: Experiment with different types of BBQ sauce, such as Kansas City-style or Carolina-style, to find your favorite flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken:
- Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken for the recommended 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high to avoid overcooking.
- Not shredding the chicken: Shredding the chicken with two forks is essential for creating tender, juicy BBQ pulled chicken.
- Not adjusting the seasoning: Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to avoid a bland or overpowering flavor.
By following these tips and variations, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious, mouth-watering slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What is the best type of chicken to use for slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken?
The best type of chicken to use for slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken breasts will yield a leaner pulled chicken, while thighs will be juicier and more tender. You can also use a combination of both breasts and thighs for a mix of textures.
It’s essential to choose boneless and skinless chicken to ensure that the meat cooks evenly and is easy to shred. You can also use chicken tenderloins or chicken breast tenderloins, but breasts and thighs are the most popular choices. Avoid using bone-in chicken, as it may not cook evenly and can be difficult to shred.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken?
The cooking time for slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken depends on the temperature setting of your slow cooker. If you cook it on low, it will take around 8-10 hours, while cooking it on high will take around 4-6 hours. It’s essential to cook the chicken until it’s tender and falls apart easily.
You can check the chicken’s tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into the meat. If it slides in easily, the chicken is cooked. If not, cover the slow cooker and cook for another 30 minutes to an hour. Keep in mind that the longer you cook the chicken, the more tender it will be.
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce for slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken?
Yes, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce for slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken. In fact, many people prefer the convenience of store-bought BBQ sauce. Look for a sauce that’s low in sugar and made with wholesome ingredients. You can also mix and match different BBQ sauces to create a unique flavor.
However, keep in mind that store-bought BBQ sauce may contain preservatives and additives that you might not find in homemade BBQ sauce. If you’re looking for a more natural option, consider making your own BBQ sauce from scratch. You can find many recipes online that use simple ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
How do I shred the chicken for slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken?
To shred the chicken for slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart. Start by removing the chicken from the slow cooker and placing it on a plate or cutting board. Then, insert two forks into the meat and gently pull them apart. The chicken should shred easily, especially if it’s cooked until tender.
You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken. Simply place the chicken in the mixer bowl and beat it on low speed until it’s shredded. This method is faster and more efficient, especially if you’re making a large batch of pulled chicken.
Can I serve slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken with other toppings?
Yes, you can serve slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken with other toppings to add more flavor and texture. Some popular toppings include diced onions, coleslaw, pickles, and jalapeños. You can also serve it on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as cheese, bacon, and avocado.
Consider adding some crunchy toppings like chopped nuts or crispy onions to add texture to the dish. You can also serve it with some creamy toppings like sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance out the flavors. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different toppings.
Can I make slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken ahead of time. In fact, it’s a great dish to make ahead of time, as the flavors will meld together and the chicken will become even more tender. Simply cook the chicken in the slow cooker, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.
When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the slow cooker or on the stovetop. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the chicken. Consider making a large batch of pulled chicken and freezing it for later use. It’s a great way to meal prep and save time during the week.
Is slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken a healthy option?
Slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken can be a healthy option, depending on the ingredients you use. If you use lean chicken breasts and a low-sugar BBQ sauce, the dish can be relatively healthy. However, if you use a sweet BBQ sauce and add a lot of toppings, the calorie count can add up.
To make slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken a healthier option, consider using a homemade BBQ sauce made with wholesome ingredients. You can also serve it with some healthy toppings like coleslaw or pickles. Additionally, consider using a whole wheat bun or serving it on a bed of greens to increase the fiber content.