Go Back

Crockpot BBQ Chicken

Easy, saucy, and hands-off BBQ chicken made in a slow cooker, perfect for busy weeknights and versatile enough for sandwiches, tacos, and more.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, BBQ
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3-4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb) Thighs can be substituted for richer flavor.
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced Or 1 tsp garlic powder in a pinch.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped Yellow or sweet onion works well.
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Regular broth is fine; low-sodium helps control saltiness.
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce Adjust to taste; sweeter sauces will be sweeter at the end.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds warmth and smokiness.
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer.
  2. Scatter the minced garlic and chopped onion over the chicken.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is mostly coated.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  2. Remove the lid, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir the shredded meat back into the sauce.
  3. If you want a thicker sauce, remove the chicken to a serving dish and cook the sauce on high with the lid off for 20-30 minutes, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) and cook for a few minutes until thickened.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar to brighten the sauce before serving.

Notes

For a spicy twist, swap half the BBQ for a chipotle sauce or add 1 tsp hot sauce. For a lower-sugar version, use a light BBQ sauce or make a quick homemade mix of tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.