Succulent smoky BBQ pulled chicken served with buns and coleslaw on a plate.

Smoky BBQ Pulled Chicken: A Tender, Crowd-Pleasing Weeknight Favorite

Why Make This Recipe

BBQ Pulled Chicken is a perfect dish for gatherings, family dinners, or a casual meal at home. It’s tender, flavorful, and requires minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken and tangy BBQ sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it can be served in various ways, such as on buns, over rice, or in salads.

How to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken

Making BBQ Pulled Chicken is simple and takes just a few steps. Follow these easy directions to create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt

Directions

Preparation

  1. Start by placing the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. Add the chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic.
  3. In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
  5. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce.

How to Serve BBQ Pulled Chicken

BBQ Pulled Chicken is versatile! You can serve it on hamburger buns for a hearty sandwich. It also works well over rice or with a side of coleslaw. Feel free to add extra BBQ sauce or your favorite toppings like pickles or chopped onions.

How to Store BBQ Pulled Chicken

To store leftover BBQ Pulled Chicken, let it cool and then place it in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store it for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken

  • If you want more flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce overnight before cooking.
  • Adjust the spiciness by choosing a BBQ sauce that meets your taste.
  • For added texture, mix in some chopped bell peppers while cooking.

Variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of meat, like pork or beef. Also, try different BBQ sauces, like honey BBQ or spicy chipotle, for new flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I make BBQ Pulled Chicken without a slow cooker?
Yes! You can cook it on the stovetop or in the oven. For the stove, simmer on low heat in a covered pot for about 1.5 hours. In the oven, bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 hours until tender.

2. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time. Cook on high for about 4-5 hours to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

3. What can I serve with BBQ Pulled Chicken?
It pairs well with coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a complete meal. You can also serve it with chips or a fresh garden salad.

Print
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BBQ Pulled Chicken


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  • Author: angela
  • Total Time: 375 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

Tender and flavorful BBQ Pulled Chicken that’s perfect for gatherings or casual meals at home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Start by placing the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. Add the chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic.
  3. In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 360 minutes or on high for 240 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
  5. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce.

Notes

For more flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce overnight before cooking. Adjust the spice level by choosing different BBQ sauces.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 360 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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