Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken

Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is a mouthwatering, set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers bold BBQ flavor with minimal effort. Juicy, tender chicken slow-cooked in rich, smoky-sweet barbecue sauce makes this an easy go-to recipe for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game day. With just a few ingredients and a crockpot, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly easy—just dump and go
• Uses only a handful of ingredients
• Packed with classic sweet and smoky BBQ flavor
• Chicken becomes fall-apart tender
• Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or over rice
• Great for feeding a crowd
• Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
• Ideal for meal prep
• Minimal cleanup
• Can be made with chicken breasts or thighs

ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Worcestershire sauce, honey, or red pepper flakes for added flavor

directions

1. Place chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
2. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated. Add any optional ingredients if desired.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks. Mix well to coat with the sauce.
6. Let it sit for a few more minutes on warm before serving to absorb more flavor.
7. Serve on buns, over rice, in wraps, or with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total time: 6–8 hours (depending on cook setting)

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños.
• Sweet & tangy: Stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit of honey.
• Hawaiian-style: Add pineapple chunks during the last hour of cooking.
• Smoky flavor: Mix in a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
• Creamy BBQ chicken: Stir in a little cream cheese or ranch dressing after shredding.
• Tex-Mex version: Add black beans and corn, and serve with tortillas.
• Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, microwave on medium heat for 1–2 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of BBQ sauce or water if needed to keep it moist.

To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw it first for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, add 1–2 hours to the cook time and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What kind of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and shred the chicken in advance. Reheat as needed for easy meals throughout the week.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Use enough BBQ sauce and avoid overcooking. Chicken thighs are also less likely to dry out than breasts.

Is Sweet Baby Ray’s the only BBQ sauce I can use?

No, any BBQ sauce will work, but Sweet Baby Ray’s is popular for its rich, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with slow-cooked chicken.

Can I cook this on the stovetop or oven?

Yes. For the stovetop, simmer the ingredients on low for about 45 minutes. In the oven, bake covered at 350°F for 1 hour, then shred and mix.

What sides go well with this dish?

Coleslaw, cornbread, mac and cheese, baked beans, or a simple salad are all great options.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure your crockpot is large enough, and you may need to extend the cook time slightly.

Can I use this chicken for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Portion into containers with rice, veggies, or buns for easy grab-and-go meals.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is the perfect no-fuss recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping meals for the week, or hosting a get-together, this savory, saucy dish has you covered. It’s tender, flavorful, and endlessly versatile—sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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