Tender BBQ Pulled Chicken

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, tangy barbecue sauce, resulting in a mouthwateringly juicy and flavorful dish. It’s the perfect set-and-forget meal that fills your home with an irresistible aroma.

Save

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, gently simmering the chicken in a homemade-tasting sauce made with barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a blend of smoky spices. In just a few hours, you'll have perfectly shredded chicken ready to be devoured.

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) barbecue sauce (gluten-free if needed)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)

Instructions

Step 1

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a slow cooker.

Step 2

Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken.

Step 3

In a bowl, combine barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and chili powder (if using). Mix well.

Step 4

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and onions, ensuring the chicken is well coated.

Step 5

Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or until the chicken is very tender and shreds easily with a fork.

Step 6

Remove chicken from the slow cooker and shred using two forks.

Step 7

Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stir to coat evenly with sauce, and heat through for 10–15 minutes.

Step 8

Serve hot as a main dish or piled onto sandwich buns.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a deeper, smoky flavor that mimics traditional barbecue, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce mixture before cooking.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a richer and even more succulent result, feel free to substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts.

Serviervorschläge

This versatile pulled chicken is fantastic served on toasted buns with a side of creamy coleslaw and pickles for a classic sandwich experience.

Save

Whether you're making sandwiches for a party or a simple weeknight dinner, this BBQ Pulled Chicken is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors and the delightful ease of this classic American dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the best cut of chicken for a tender result?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well; thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

→ How long should the chicken cook for optimal tenderness?

Cooking on low for 4 to 5 hours in a slow cooker ensures the chicken becomes tender enough to shred easily.

→ Can I adjust the sauce for more heat or smokiness?

Yes, adding chili powder increases heat, while a few drops of liquid smoke boost smoky flavor.

→ What side dishes complement this chicken well?

Coleslaw, pickles, or toasted sandwich buns make great accompaniments for balanced flavors.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reused?

Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months; reheat thoroughly before serving.