introduction
This Crockpot BBQ Chicken is simple and hands-off. You put chicken, onions, garlic, and BBQ sauce in the slow cooker and let it cook. It makes tender, juicy chicken you can use in sandwiches or bowls. If you like warm, comforting meals, try a warm bowl of chicken and cabbage soup on a cold day with this chicken.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you need a quick, low-work meal that still tastes good. It uses few ingredients and cooks while you do other things. The dish gives you meat that is easy to shred and that can stretch for many meals, like how a simple chicken breakfast sausage can make mornings easier.
how to make Crockpot BBQ Chicken
You can cook this all day with almost no work. Put the chicken and other ingredients in the crockpot, set the time, and let it cook. After cooking, shred or slice the chicken to use in sandwiches, tacos, or over rice like a chicken chipotle melt style meal.
Ingredients :
- 2-3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Optional: Sliced bell peppers
- Optional: Paprika, pepper, or cayenne for seasoning
Directions :
- Place the chicken in the crockpot, seasoning it if desired.
- Layer the sliced onions on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic over the onions.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken and onions.
- Add a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
- Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
how to serve Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Serve the chicken shredded on buns for BBQ sandwiches, over rice, or with a side salad. You can add fresh toppings like coleslaw or pickles. For a creamy rice plate, serve it with flavors like in Churu chicken amarillo as a guide for sides.
how to store Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Let the chicken cool to room temperature for no more than two hours. Put it in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Crockpot BBQ Chicken
- Use thighs for more flavor and moisture, or breasts for lean meat.
- If the sauce is thin after cooking, lift the lid and cook on high for 15-30 minutes to thicken.
- Add sliced bell peppers for color and crunch in the last hour of cooking.
- Stir in a little brown sugar or honey for a sweeter glaze if your sauce is tangy.
- For extra cooking tips with other chicken parts, see chicken hearts easy recipes for simple ideas you can adapt.
variation (if any)
- Spicy version: add cayenne or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
- Smoky version: use smoked paprika or a smoked BBQ sauce.
- Mexican twist: add taco seasoning, lime, and cilantro before serving.
- Veggie mix: add carrots or potatoes cut small so they cook through.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but cook on low for longer and check the internal temperature. It is safer to use thawed chicken for even cooking.
Q: How do I know the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) and pulls apart easily with a fork.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, use a larger slow cooker and add a bit more chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
Q: Can I use other sauces instead of BBQ?
A: Yes, you can try teriyaki, buffalo, or a tomato-based sauce for different flavors.
Q: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A: Yes, it stores well and works for sandwiches, bowls, or salads through the week.
Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken in the crockpot, seasoning it if desired.
- Layer the sliced onions on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic over the onions.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken and onions.
- Add a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.
- Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.