Crockpot Shredded BBQ Chicken – Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Recipe

This Crockpot Shredded BBQ Chicken is one of those dependable recipes that quietly becomes a household favorite. It’s the kind of dish you turn to on busy weekdays, lazy Sundays, and game-day gatherings alike — because it delivers big flavor with very little effort. Slow cooking has long been a trusted method in traditional kitchens, allowing simple ingredients to transform into something tender, rich, and deeply satisfying over time.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Boneless chicken slowly simmers in a tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. As it cooks low and slow, the chicken absorbs every smoky note, every hint of spice, and every drop of savory goodness. When it’s finally shredded, the meat becomes irresistibly juicy and versatile — perfect for sandwiches, sliders, tacos, baked potatoes, or even piled onto a fresh salad.

This crockpot BBQ chicken is also a lifesaver for meal prep. Make a big batch, and you’ve got protein ready for the whole week. It’s family-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and easy to customize with your favorite barbecue sauce — sweet, smoky, spicy, or classic. Most importantly, it brings people together around warm, familiar flavors that feel like home. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen while this dish gently cooks to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 2½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
• 1½ cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (adds balance and brightness)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt (adjust depending on sauce)
• Optional: ½ tsp chili powder or cayenne for a gentle kick

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom.
2. Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic evenly over the chicken. These aromatics will slowly melt into the sauce as it cooks, adding depth and richness.
3. In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar or honey (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Gently press the chicken down so it sits comfortably in the sauce.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and place it on a large plate or cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized strands.
7. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it back into the sauce. Let it cook on LOW for an additional 15–20 minutes so the chicken absorbs even more flavor.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm and enjoy in your favorite way — sandwiches, sliders, wraps, or straight from the bowl.

Nutritional Information:

This shredded BBQ chicken is a protein-rich dish that fits beautifully into a balanced meal. Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and energized, while the slow-cooked sauce delivers comfort and flavor. Pair it with whole-grain buns, roasted vegetables, or a crisp coleslaw for a satisfying, well-rounded plate.

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 6–7 hours (low) | ⏳ Total Time: ~6 hours 10 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~290 | 🍽️ Servings: 6–8

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!