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Introduction
Prepare to delight your taste buds with this easy and flavorful BBQ chicken made in a crockpot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, as it allows you to set it and forget it while the chicken cooks to tender perfection. The result is a deliciously sticky and smoky BBQ dish that pairs perfectly with rice, buns, or a crisp salad.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts – 2 pounds
BBQ sauce – 1 cup
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
Salt – ½ teaspoon
Pepper – ½ teaspoon
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
Total Time – 6 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes
Yield – Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
Step 2: Add BBQ Sauce
Pour your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
Step 3: Set Cooking Time
Cover the crockpot and set it on low heat. Cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 5: Mix Shredded Chicken with Sauce
Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it with the remaining BBQ sauce to ensure the chicken is well-coated.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the BBQ chicken on buns, in tacos, or on its own with sides of your choice.
Notes
Tip for Extra Flavor
For an added burst of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking.
Storage Instructions
Leftover BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
This BBQ chicken pairs well with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad for a delicious meal.
Alternative Proteins
You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result or use a mix of both for more flavor.
Cook techniques
Using a Crockpot
Crockpots are designed to cook food slowly and evenly. This technique allows the chicken to become tender and flavorful as it simmers in its juices with the BBQ sauce.
Layering Ingredients
For optimal flavor, layer ingredients in the crockpot. Start with the chicken, add your spices, and then top with the BBQ sauce. This ensures that each piece of chicken is well-coated.
Sealing for Flavor
Lock the lid tightly on the crockpot. This traps moisture and flavors, resulting in deliciously tender chicken.
Cooking on Low vs. High
Cooking on low for a longer period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, cooking on high is also effective but may result in slightly less tender chicken.
Shredding Chicken
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This makes it easier to handle and helps retain its moisture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
It is recommended to thaw chicken before placing it in the crockpot for even cooking.
How can I adjust the BBQ flavor?
You can adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to your taste or mix in some spices for a unique twist.
What side dishes pair well with BBQ chicken?
Sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans complement BBQ chicken nicely.
Can I cook other meats using this method?
Yes, other meats like pork or beef can be cooked in a similar manner, though cooking times may vary.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Conclusion
The BBQ Chicken made in a crockpot offers a delicious and convenient meal option that captures the essence of summer grilling. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Pair it with various sides or incorporate it into other dishes for diverse flavor experiences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Transform your BBQ chicken into delightful sandwiches. Serve it on toasted buns with coleslaw for a satisfying meal.
BBQ Chicken Tacos
Use the shredded BBQ chicken as a filling for tacos. Top with avocado, salsa, and fresh cilantro for a zesty twist.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Create a unique pizza by spreading BBQ sauce on a crust, adding shredded chicken, cheese, and onions before baking.
BBQ Chicken Salad
Make a refreshing salad by combining greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and BBQ chicken. Drizzle with ranch or vinaigrette for added flavor.
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Sauté some bell peppers and onions, add shredded BBQ chicken, and place the mixture between tortillas with cheese for cheesy quesadillas.
BBQ Chicken Pasta
Toss cooked pasta with BBQ chicken, vegetables, and a light sauce for a hearty dish that satisfies.
BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole
Mix BBQ chicken with rice, veggies, and cheese, then bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.
