Shredded Chicken Crockpot BBQ: Easiest Weeknight Dinner!
This shredded chicken BBQ crockpot recipe transforms basic ingredients into a bold, tender, and juicy dinner that’s perfect for busy nights. Dump it, set it, forget it — and enjoy!
Equipment
- Crockpot (slow cooker)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- forks (for shredding)
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 cups BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 0.5 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.25 tsp onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Lightly grease the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot.
- Let the shredded chicken simmer in the sauce for another 15–30 minutes on warm.
- Serve the BBQ chicken on buns, rice, salads, or however you like.
Notes
Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for richer flavor. Add cayenne for heat, honey for sweetness, or try soda like root beer or Dr. Pepper for fun twists. Freezes great for future meals.