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A serving of easy crockpot BBQ chicken, shredded and saucy, ready to eat.

Classic Easy Crockpot BBQ Chicken

This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to make BBQ chicken using a slow cooker, perfect for a weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings 6 people

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Forks

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2-3 pounds Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 18-ounce bottle Your Favorite BBQ Sauce

Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt To taste (start with)

Optional

  • 1-2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker without adding liquid, as they will release moisture during cooking.
  • Season the chicken with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even distribution.

Cooking

  • Pour the entire bottle of BBQ sauce over the seasoned chicken, coating all pieces; mix in apple cider vinegar or brown sugar if desired.
  • Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until the chicken is very tender and easily shreddable.

Finishing and Serving

  • Shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, then stir to thoroughly coat it with the BBQ sauce.
  • Keep the chicken on the warm setting in the slow cooker until ready to serve.

Notes

Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker. For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).