Are you looking for a mouth-watering, fall-off-the-bone BBQ chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than your slow cooker. In this article, we’ll show you how to make delicious BBQ chicken in your slow cooker, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Why Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken?
Slow cooker BBQ chicken is a game-changer for anyone who loves BBQ but doesn’t have the time or energy to spend hours tending to a grill. With a slow cooker, you can simply throw all the ingredients in and let the magic happen while you’re busy with other things. Plus, slow cooker BBQ chicken is incredibly tender and juicy, with a rich, depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with traditional grilling methods.
The Benefits of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a great way to cook chicken because it allows for even heat distribution and prevents the meat from drying out. This is especially important when cooking chicken breasts, which can quickly become dry and tough if overcooked. Slow cooking also breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and easy to shred.
Choosing the Right Slow Cooker
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about choosing the right slow cooker. There are many different types of slow cookers on the market, ranging from basic, manual models to high-tech, programmable ones. When choosing a slow cooker, consider the following factors:
- Size: How many people are you planning to cook for? A larger slow cooker is perfect for big families or for cooking in bulk, while a smaller one is better suited for singles or couples.
- Material: Slow cookers can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, stainless steel, and plastic. Ceramic slow cookers are a popular choice because they retain heat well and are easy to clean.
- Features: Do you want a slow cooker with programmable timers, temperature control, and other bells and whistles? Or are you happy with a basic, manual model?
Our Recommended Slow Cooker
For this recipe, we recommend using a 6-quart slow cooker. This size is perfect for cooking 2-3 pounds of chicken, which is ideal for 4-6 people. Our top pick for a slow cooker is the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Cook & Carry Slow Cooker. This slow cooker is easy to use, clean, and transport, and it has a range of features that make it perfect for busy home cooks.
The Recipe
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get to the recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2-3 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
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Add the chicken to the slow cooker: Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth.
- Add the BBQ sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Cook the chicken: Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve: Serve the BBQ chicken hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Variations and Tips
Here are a few variations and tips to help you take your slow cooker BBQ chicken to the next level:
- Use different types of BBQ sauce: Experiment with different types of BBQ sauce, such as Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, or Alabama-style, to give your chicken a unique flavor.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, add some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the slow cooker for an extra kick.
- Try different types of chicken: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well in this recipe, you can also use bone-in chicken or chicken drumsticks for a different texture.
- Use a slow cooker liner: To make cleanup easier, use a slow cooker liner. These liners are disposable and can be thrown away after use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making slow cooker BBQ chicken:
- Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s tender and falls apart easily, but avoid overcooking it. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough.
- Not using enough BBQ sauce: Use enough BBQ sauce to coat the chicken evenly, but avoid using too much. Too much BBQ sauce can make the chicken taste overpowering and sweet.
- Not seasoning the chicken: Don’t forget to season the chicken with salt, pepper, and other spices before cooking it. This will help bring out the flavor of the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few serving suggestions for your slow cooker BBQ chicken:
- Serve with sides: Serve the BBQ chicken with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob.
- Use in sandwiches: Use the BBQ chicken in sandwiches, wraps, or subs for a quick and easy meal.
- Make a salad: Toss the BBQ chicken with some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing for a healthy and delicious salad.
Conclusion
Slow cooker BBQ chicken is a delicious and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender, juicy texture and rich, depth of flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a BBQ enthusiast, this recipe is a must-try. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of slow cooker BBQ chicken.
What is the best type of chicken to use for slow cooker BBQ chicken?
The best type of chicken to use for slow cooker BBQ 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 and slightly drier result, 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 BBQ chicken?
The cooking time for slow cooker BBQ 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.
It’s always a good idea to check the chicken for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh. The internal temperature should read at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If you prefer your chicken to be fall-apart tender, you can cook it for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought BBQ sauce for this recipe. In fact, using store-bought BBQ sauce can save you time and effort in preparing the sauce from scratch. Just make sure to choose a BBQ sauce that’s low in sugar and without any artificial preservatives.
However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also make your own BBQ sauce from scratch using a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices. This will allow you to customize the flavor to your liking and avoid any unwanted ingredients.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker?
To prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker, it’s essential to cook it on low heat and to not overcook it. You can also add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as chicken broth or beer, to keep the chicken moist and tender.
Another tip is to baste the chicken with the BBQ sauce every hour or so to keep it moist and flavorful. You can also add some onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables to the slow cooker to add moisture and flavor to the dish.
Can I serve slow cooker BBQ chicken with other sides?
Slow cooker BBQ chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to complement its rich and tangy flavor. Some popular side dish options include coleslaw, baked beans, grilled vegetables, and cornbread.
You can also serve the chicken with some crusty bread or over rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful BBQ sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can serve the chicken with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Can I make slow cooker BBQ chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make slow cooker BBQ chicken ahead of time. In fact, this recipe is perfect for meal prep or for cooking in advance for a party or gathering. You can cook the chicken in the slow cooker and then refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
To reheat the chicken, simply place it in the slow cooker and cook it on low heat for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until it’s heated through. You can also reheat the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop if you prefer.
Is slow cooker BBQ chicken a healthy option?
Slow cooker BBQ chicken can be a healthy option, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. Chicken is a lean protein that’s low in fat and high in protein, making it a great option for those looking to eat healthier.
However, the BBQ sauce can add a significant amount of sugar and salt to the dish. To make this recipe healthier, you can use a low-sugar BBQ sauce or make your own sauce from scratch using natural ingredients. You can also serve the chicken with a side of vegetables or a salad to balance out the meal.