Ingredients for Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions for Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the Sauces:
- Pour the barbecue sauce and Worcestershire sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
3. Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and can be easily shredded with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce.
5. Serve:
- Serve the BBQ chicken on buns, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy the smoky, tangy flavors!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (Crock Pot)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Forks for shredding chicken
- Tongs (optional for serving)
Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
- Use Quality Barbecue Sauce: The sauce you choose can make or break this dish. Opt for a high-quality store-bought sauce or try making your own for a personal touch.
- Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to mix in some chopped onions or bell peppers before cooking for added flavor and texture.
- Cook from Frozen: If you forget to thaw your chicken, you can cook it from frozen. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
- Adjust for Spiciness: If you like your BBQ chicken with a kick, add a tablespoon of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked BBQ chicken for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or heat the chicken on the stovetop or in the oven until warmed through.
Pairing Suggestions
This Crock Pot BBQ Chicken pairs perfectly with:
- Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw make for a great side that complements the richness of the BBQ.
- Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread adds a comforting touch and soaks up the extra sauce beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve with a side of grilled veggies for a well-rounded meal.