The aroma of tender, juicy chicken smothered in a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine walking into your home after a long day, only to be greeted by the mouthwatering scent of BBQ chicken crockpot wafting through the air. It’s like a warm hug for your stomach, promising flavors that will dance on your taste buds and make your heart do a little happy jig.
Remember those days when you were juggling work, kids, and life’s endless surprises? There was always that one recipe that saved the day—easy, delicious, and perfect for feeding a crowd or just yourself while binge-watching your favorite show. This BBQ chicken crockpot recipe is just that! Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for family gatherings or lazy Sundays.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This BBQ chicken crockpot is incredibly easy to prepare; just toss everything into the pot and let it do its magic
- The flavor profile is rich and zesty, creating a delightful balance between sweet and savory
- Visually, it’s stunning with its vibrant color from the sauce, making it an eye-catching dish on any table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to use in sandwiches, salads, or even tacos!
Ingredients for bbq chicken crockpot
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
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BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite brand or homemade version; this will be the star of the show!
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Onion: One medium onion adds depth to the flavor; chop it up finely for even distribution.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives an aromatic kick; about three cloves should do.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; this keeps everything moist.
For some extra flavor:
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Brown Sugar: A tablespoon of brown sugar enhances sweetness in the sauce; it’s like adding a hug!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make bbq chicken crockpot
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your trusty crockpot. You want them snug as bugs in rugs!
Step 2: Chop Those Veggies
Grab that chopped onion and sprinkle it over the chicken. Then mince your garlic cloves like you mean it! The more love you put into chopping, the more flavor you’ll get.
Step 3: Add Your Saucy Ingredients
Pour in your favorite BBQ sauce over everything like it’s confetti at a party! Follow it up with chicken broth and brown sugar for that sweet twist.
Step 4: Set It & Forget It
Cover your crockpot and set it on low for about 6-7 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. Go live your best life while dinner cooks itself!
Step 5: Shred That Chicken
Once cooked through and tender (you’ll know when it’s shreddable), use two forks to pull apart the chicken right in the pot. Stir well with all those beautiful juices.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer generous portions onto plates or buns for sandwiches. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!
There you have it! A straightforward process leading you to BBQ bliss that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. You can serve this delightful creation over rice, in taco shells, or alongside a crisp salad – whatever floats your boat!
You Must Know
- This delicious BBQ chicken crockpot recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for lazy weekends but versatile enough for busy weeknights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
To achieve tender, fall-off-the-bone BBQ chicken, start by seasoning your chicken thoroughly. Sear the chicken to lock in flavors, then toss it into the crockpot with your favorite BBQ sauce. Let it cook low and slow for a few hours, and voilà!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your BBQ chicken crockpot dish! Swap out regular BBQ sauce for honey mustard or teriyaki for a unique twist. Add in some chopped veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
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- <p>– Always sear your chicken before adding it to the crockpot; this enhances flavor and texture.</p>
- <p>– For a richer taste, let your BBQ sauce simmer with spices before mixing it with the chicken.</p>
- <p>– If using frozen chicken, allow extra cooking time; safety first!</p>
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I once served this BBQ chicken crockpot dish at a family gathering, and everyone went back for seconds! My cousin even asked if I was secretly hiding a gourmet chef certification. Little did they know, my secret was simply a trusty crockpot!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for bbq chicken crockpot?
To make delicious BBQ chicken in a crockpot, gather the following ingredients: boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, your favorite BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include sliced onions or bell peppers for added flavor. Ensure you have enough sauce to coat the chicken well. This simple list keeps the recipe straightforward while allowing you to customize flavors according to your taste preferences.
How long does it take to cook bbq chicken in a crockpot?
Cooking BBQ chicken in a crockpot typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on the low setting and 2 to 3 hours on high. The exact timing can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces and your specific slow cooker model. Always check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption. Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the sauce for maximum flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken for bbq chicken crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken when making BBQ chicken in a crockpot; however, it’s important to adjust cooking times accordingly. Cooking frozen chicken may extend the overall time by about an hour. Make sure that all pieces are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving. For best results, thawing the chicken beforehand is recommended to ensure even cooking.
What are some side dishes that pair well with bbq chicken crockpot?
BBQ chicken from a crockpot pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Popular choices include coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. You might also consider serving it alongside rice or mashed potatoes to soak up extra sauce. Grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad can add a healthy touch and balance out the meal perfectly.
Conclusion for bbq chicken crockpot:
In summary, making BBQ chicken in a crockpot is simple and rewarding. With just a few key ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can enjoy tender and flavorful chicken cooked to perfection. Whether served on its own or paired with sides like coleslaw or rice, this dish is versatile for any occasion. Embrace this easy recipe that allows you more time with family while enjoying delicious home-cooked meals!
BBQ Chicken Crockpot
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of BBQ Chicken Crockpot! This effortless dish combines tender, juicy chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce, filling your home with a mouthwatering aroma. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, this versatile meal can be served in sandwiches, tacos, or over rice. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you’ll create a satisfying comfort food that delights family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Place the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the chopped onion over the chicken and add minced garlic.
- Pour BBQ sauce and chicken broth over the mixture. Add brown sugar if desired.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in the pot using two forks and stir to combine with juices.
- Serve on buns, over rice, or in tacos with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup shredded chicken (approximately 140g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
