Are you looking for a mouth-watering, fall-off-the-bone barbecue chicken recipe that’s easy to make and requires minimal effort? Look no further than slow cooker barbecue chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or any occasion when you want to serve a delicious, comforting meal with minimal fuss.
Why Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken?
Slow cooker barbecue chicken is a game-changer for several reasons:
- Convenience: Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it. Come home to a ready-to-eat meal that’s sure to please.
- Tender and juicy: The low heat and moisture of the slow cooker ensure that the chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Easy to customize: You can adjust the level of sweetness, tanginess, and spiciness to suit your taste preferences.
Basic Ingredients and Equipment
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s cover the basic ingredients and equipment you’ll need:
- 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 slow cooker (at least 6-quart capacity)
- 1 cutting board
- 1 knife
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 spoon
Optional Ingredients
Feel free to add or substitute the following ingredients to suit your taste preferences:
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 jalapeno pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
The Recipe
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment, let’s get started with the recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the chicken breasts or thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, and brown sugar until well combined.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Sauce to the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over the top. If using, add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeno pepper on top of the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
After 6-8 hours, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Use your favorite barbecue sauce: Experiment with different types of barbecue sauce, such as Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, or sweet and tangy.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, add more jalapeno peppers or use hot sauce to give the chicken an extra kick.
- Try different types of chicken: Use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs for a more rustic, comforting meal.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Pair the slow cooker barbecue chicken with coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While slow cooker barbecue chicken is a relatively easy recipe, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to check the chicken after 6 hours and shred it when it’s tender and falls apart easily.
- Not enough sauce: If you prefer a saucier chicken, add more barbecue sauce or chicken broth to the slow cooker.
- Not seasoning the chicken: Don’t forget to season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices before adding it to the slow cooker.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues while making the slow cooker barbecue chicken, refer to the following troubleshooting guide:
| Issue | Solution |
| — | — |
| Chicken is dry and overcooked | Check the chicken after 6 hours and shred it when it’s tender. If it’s still dry, add more barbecue sauce or chicken broth. |
| Sauce is too thick | Add a little more chicken broth or water to thin out the sauce. |
| Chicken has no flavor | Make sure to season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices before adding it to the slow cooker. |
Conclusion
Slow cooker barbecue chicken is a deliciously easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or any occasion when you want to serve a comforting meal with minimal fuss. By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create a mouth-watering, fall-off-the-bone barbecue chicken that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
What is the best type of chicken to use for slow cooker barbecue chicken?
The best type of chicken to use for slow cooker barbecue chicken is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can use either one or a combination of both, depending on your personal preference. Chicken breasts will yield a leaner dish, while chicken thighs will be juicier and more tender.
It’s also important to note that you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them first before placing them in the slow cooker. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cut chicken breast or thighs to save on prep time.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker barbecue chicken?
The cooking time for slow cooker barbecue chicken will depend on the type of slow cooker you’re using and the level of doneness you prefer. Generally, it takes around 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat to cook the chicken to perfection.
If you’re using frozen chicken, you may need to add an extra hour or two to the cooking time. It’s also important to check the chicken periodically to ensure it’s cooked through and tender. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should be at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought barbecue sauce for this recipe. In fact, using store-bought barbecue sauce can save you time and effort in preparing the dish. Just make sure to choose a barbecue sauce that’s low in sugar and artificial ingredients.
However, if you prefer to make your own barbecue sauce from scratch, you can do so by mixing together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. This will give you more control over the flavor and ingredients of the sauce.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker?
To prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker, make sure to cook it on low heat for a longer period of time. This will help to break down the connective tissues in the meat and keep it moist.
You can also add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as chicken broth or water, to keep the chicken moist. Additionally, you can cover the slow cooker with a lid to trap the moisture and heat inside. This will help to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Can I add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the chicken?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the chicken to make the dish more flavorful and nutritious. Some ideas include diced onions, bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes. You can also add some garlic, ginger, and herbs to give the dish more flavor.
Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid levels accordingly, depending on the ingredients you add. For example, if you add potatoes, you may need to add more liquid to the slow cooker to prevent them from drying out.
How do I serve slow cooker barbecue chicken?
Slow cooker barbecue chicken can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preference. You can serve it on its own as a main dish, or with some sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
You can also shred the chicken and serve it on a bun as a sandwich, or use it as a topping for a salad or baked potato. The possibilities are endless, and you can get creative with how you serve the dish.
Can I freeze slow cooker barbecue chicken for later use?
Yes, you can freeze slow cooker barbecue chicken for later use. In fact, this is a great way to meal prep and save time during the week. Simply cook the chicken and let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or reheat it in the microwave or oven. You can also freeze the chicken in individual portions to make it easier to thaw and reheat.