Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe

This Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken is tender, juicy, and packed with smoky barbecue flavor. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or sliders, it’s a simple slow-cooker recipe that makes weeknight dinners effortless.

Get ready for a hands-off, flavor-packed meal with this Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe.

Juicy chicken simmers all day in smoky barbecue sauce, soaking up all the bold flavors while you go about your day.

Whether you pile it onto buns, stuff it into tacos, or serve it over rice, this slow-cooker favorite is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or game-day meals.

With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s a go-to recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything in the Crock Pot and let it do the work.
• Tender, Juicy Chicken: Slow cooking ensures perfectly moist, pull-apart chicken every time.
• Bold BBQ Flavor: Smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet—just like your favorite barbecue joint.
• Versatile Meal Options: Serve on buns, tacos, salads, or over rice for endless variety.
• Perfect for Busy Days: Minimal prep and maximum flavor make it ideal for weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients Needed

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tender meat

• Your favorite barbecue sauce for sweet and smoky flavor
• Yellow mustard to add tang and depth to the sauce
• Brown sugar for natural sweetness and rich flavor
• Apple cider vinegar to balance sweetness with bright acidity
• Garlic powder for savory, aromatic seasoning throughout the chicken
• Onion powder to enhance flavor and add subtle sweetness
• Smoked paprika for smoky warmth and mild spiciness
• Salt to bring out all flavors in the dish

How To Make Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken

Step 1: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine barbecue sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fully blended.

Step 3: Pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 5: Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir until fully coated. Serve immediately on buns, in tacos, over rice, or however you like. Optionally, top with extra barbecue sauce or pickles for added flavor.

Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe Tips

• Use thighs for extra juiciness: Chicken thighs stay moist longer and won’t dry out during extended slow cooking.
• Don’t overdo the sauce early: Start with just enough sauce to coat; you can always stir in more after shredding.
• Shred while hot: The chicken pulls apart faster and more evenly when it’s still warm.
• Let it soak after shredding: Give the shredded chicken 10–15 minutes in the sauce so it really absorbs the flavor.

Storing Instructions

Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with extra sauce to keep it juicy.

Crock Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen chicken in the crock pot? Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking and food safety. If you do start with frozen chicken, add extra cooking time and check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

What’s the best cut of chicken for BBQ pulled chicken? Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs stay juicier and are harder to overcook, while breasts give a leaner result.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely. This pulled chicken tastes even better the next day after the flavors settle, making it great for meal prep or parties.

How do I keep pulled chicken from drying out? Always shred the chicken directly in the sauce and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. If needed, stir in extra barbecue sauce or a splash of chicken broth.

Can I freeze crock pot BBQ pulled chicken? Yes. Let the chicken cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with BBQ pulled chicken? Serve it on sandwich buns, slider rolls, or baked potatoes. It’s also great in tacos, quesadillas, rice bowls, or over mac and cheese.

Can I make this recipe spicy? Yes. Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or a spicy BBQ sauce to bring the heat. Taste and adjust before serving.

How long should I cook BBQ pulled chicken in the slow cooker? Cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the chicken shreds easily with a fork.

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