The aroma of sweet and tangy BBQ chicken wafting through your home is like a warm hug from the culinary gods. Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken that falls apart at the slightest touch, coated in a glaze that’s equal parts smoky, sweet, and savory. This BBQ chicken crockpot dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the family together, whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a lively backyard gathering. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.
I still remember the first time I made this dish. I had just moved into my new apartment, feeling all grown up and ready to tackle adulting—until I realized I had no clue how to cook! Enter the glorious crockpot, my trusty sidekick. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe saved me from countless nights of takeout menus. It’s now my go-to for impressing friends and family without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This BBQ chicken crockpot is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavors blend beautifully as it cooks low and slow, creating a deliciously sticky glaze
- Your kitchen will smell amazing as the chicken simmers away
- Serve it on buns or with sides for an impressive feast that suits any occasion!
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 breasts work well; feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
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BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand; a mix of smoky and sweet flavors works best.
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Onion: One medium onion adds depth; chop it finely for even cooking.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic boosts flavor; about four cloves minced should do the trick.
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Chicken Broth: Helps keep everything moist; low-sodium options let you control saltiness better.
For the Seasoning:
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Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavor; season to taste!
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 the Chicken
Start by placing those beautiful chicken breasts in your crockpot. Grab a cutting board and chop up that onion while you’re at it—don’t worry if you shed a tear or two; it happens to the best of us.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Toss in the minced garlic with the onions over the chicken. The more aroma we create now, the more mouthwatering our dish will be later!
Step 3: Pour in the BBQ Sauce
Now comes the fun part! Pour your favorite BBQ sauce over everything. Don’t be shy—let that sauce coat every inch of those chicken breasts as if they were taking a luxurious bath!
Step 4: Add Chicken Broth
Next, pour in about half a cup of chicken broth around (not over) the chicken. This helps prevent dryness while allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Season
Sprinkle salt and pepper over everything according to your taste preference. Remember: seasoning is key in ensuring flavor!
Step 6: Cook Low & Slow
Cover your crockpot and set it on low for about six hours or high for three hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken shreds easily with two forks!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for that perfect finishing touch. Serve alongside coleslaw or on fluffy buns for an unforgettable meal experience.
And there you have it—the ultimate BBQ chicken crockpot recipe! Next time you’re faced with dinner decisions or unexpected guests, just recall this easy-peasy yet flavorful dish that has saved many of us from culinary disasters!
You Must Know
- This delicious BBQ chicken crockpot recipe not only simplifies your cooking but also fills your home with mouthwatering aromas
- You can easily tweak the ingredients based on your preferences
- The juicy chicken, coated in tangy sauce, is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken, then sear it for a golden crust before placing it in the crockpot. While that simmers away, prepare any sides such as rice or veggies to ensure everything is ready simultaneously for a delightful meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spices or add extras like pineapple chunks or bell peppers for a flavor twist. You can also try different barbecue sauces, from smoky to sweet, depending on your mood and taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or heat gently on the stovetop for best results, keeping that saucy goodness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to use chicken thighs as they remain juicy and tender even after slow cooking
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking; it releases steam and prolongs cooking time
- Lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding for easier handling
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a family BBQ where my cousin insisted on bringing his “famous” grilled chicken. Let’s just say my BBQ chicken crockpot stole the show!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for BBQ chicken crockpot?
To make a delicious BBQ chicken in your crockpot, you will need boneless chicken breasts or thighs, your favorite BBQ sauce, and some seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include diced onions and bell peppers for added flavor. You can also use chicken broth to keep the meat moist during cooking. This simple list ensures that you create a flavorful dish with minimal effort.
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 high heat or 6 to 8 hours on low heat. The exact time may vary based on the size of the chicken pieces and the specific model of your crockpot. It’s crucial to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. This slow cooking method allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
Can I freeze leftover BBQ chicken from the crockpot?
Yes, you can freeze leftover BBQ chicken from the crockpot! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label them with the date and contents for easy identification later. Properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick meal that tastes just as good as when freshly cooked.
What are some serving suggestions for BBQ chicken crockpot?
You can serve BBQ chicken from your crockpot in various ways! It pairs wonderfully with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic Southern meal. You can also shred the chicken and serve it on buns for tasty sandwiches or over rice for a hearty bowl. Additionally, consider adding it to tacos or salads for a fresh twist. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for any occasion!
Conclusion for bbq chicken crockpot:
In summary, cooking BBQ chicken in a crockpot provides an easy and flavorful way to enjoy this classic dish. Using simple ingredients like boneless chicken and your favorite sauce ensures quick preparation and minimal cleanup. With adjustable cooking times and versatile serving options, this recipe suits any schedule or palate. Whether for family dinners or meal prep, BBQ chicken from the crockpot is sure to be a hit at your table!

BBQ Chicken Crockpot Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of BBQ chicken made effortlessly in your crockpot. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken coated in a smoky and sweet BBQ glaze that will fill your home with irresistible aromas. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish guarantees satisfaction with minimal effort. Serve it on buns, alongside coleslaw, or over rice for a complete and delightful meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Add chicken broth around the edges (not directly over) to keep moisture.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken shreds easily with forks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg