Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is a no-fuss, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy days. The chicken turns out tender, juicy, and infused with sweet and smoky barbecue flavors. It’s versatile enough to be served on sandwiches, in tacos, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides. With minimal prep and all-day slow cooking, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it winner for weeknights or casual gatherings.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighsyellow onionsgarlic clovesbarbecue sauceapple cider vinegarbrown sugarsmoked paprikasaltblack pepper

directions

Place the chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Add sliced onions and minced garlic over the chicken.

In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and onions.

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker and stir to coat it evenly in the sauce.

Serve hot as desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on highTotal time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high)

Variations

Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Use honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Mix in a tablespoon of mustard or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.

Top with coleslaw when serving on sandwiches for a crunchy contrast.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.You can also freeze BBQ chicken for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and food safety.

Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?

Absolutely, homemade or store-bought both work well.

Do I need to sear the chicken first?

No searing is needed—just place it straight into the slow cooker.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Use your favorite style—sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy.

Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken?

Yes, but be sure to remove bones before shredding.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Check your BBQ sauce label—many are, but some contain gluten.

Can I cook it faster?

Use the high setting to cut cooking time in half.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Use thighs for more moisture, and don’t overcook.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but increase cooking time slightly and make sure your slow cooker can hold the volume.

What sides go well with it?

Serve with coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or potato salad.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s full of bold, comforting flavor. Whether you pile it onto buns, wrap it in tortillas, or serve it over mashed potatoes, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a regular on your menu.

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