Easiest Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Hola, friend! If you’ve ever wished dinner could just cook itself while your house fills with the mouthwatering smell of barbecue, this Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is about to become your new favorite weeknight hero. With only two ingredients, it’s proof that simple really can be spectacular.
I first made this recipe on a busy summer day when my schedule was packed, and the moment I lifted the lid, that smoky, sweet aroma made me feel like I had just hosted a backyard cookout , without even turning on the grill. Juicy, tender, and perfectly saucy, it’s one of those meals that makes you look like a kitchen genius with almost zero effort.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time: | 5 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time: | 1 hour 30 minutes (high) or 3–4 hours (low) |
| Total Time: | 1 hour 35 minutes |
| Servings: | 6 |
| Serving Size: | 1 sandwich or bowl |
| Difficulty: | Beginner-friendly |
| Cuisine Type: | American |
| Best Season to Serve: | All year round |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 2 ingredients: BBQ sauce and chicken, that’s it!
- Set it and forget it: Let your slow cooker handle all the work.
- Perfectly tender: The chicken turns out juicy, flavorful, and easy to shred.
- Versatile: Great for sandwiches, wraps, salads, or rice bowls.
- Family favorite: Everyone loves that smoky-sweet flavor combo.
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken (2 Ingredients)
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and made with just 2 simple ingredients. Tender shredded chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce makes an easy, hands-off meal perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 14 ounces BBQ sauce (about 1 3/4 cups)
- Optional for serving:
- 6 soft buns
- 6 ounces coleslaw
Instructions
1. Pour BBQ sauce into the bottom of your slow cooker and spread evenly.
2. Add the chicken breasts, turning them gently to coat both sides in the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on HIGH for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Remove one chicken breast at a time and place it in a bowl. Use two forks to shred the chicken, then return it to the slow cooker.
5. Stir the shredded chicken into the remaining BBQ sauce until fully coated.
6. Serve warm on buns with coleslaw or as desired.
Notes
Use your favorite BBQ sauce for the best flavor, smoky or honey-style sauces work great.
For extra tenderness, cook on LOW for 4 hours instead of HIGH.
Add minced garlic or chili flakes to the sauce for a flavor boost.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich or portion
- Calories: 282
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 1424
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0.02
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 36
- Cholesterol: 96
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 14 ounces BBQ sauce (about 1 ¾ cups)
Optional for serving:
- 6 soft buns
- 6 ounces coleslaw
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | Boneless, skinless chicken works best for easy shredding. |
| BBQ sauce | Choose a smoky or honey-style BBQ sauce for richer flavor. |
| Buns | Brioche or potato buns soak up the sauce perfectly. |
| Coleslaw | Adds crunch and freshness to balance the saucy chicken. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add sauce to the slow cooker: Pour the BBQ sauce into the bottom of your slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
- Add chicken: Place the chicken breasts on top and turn them gently to coat both sides with sauce.
- Cook: Cover with the lid and cook on HIGH for 1 ½ to 2 hours or on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred the chicken: Remove one chicken breast at a time and place it in a bowl. Use two forks to shred it, then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Mix and serve: Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce until everything is well coated. Serve warm on buns with coleslaw or your favorite sides.
Helpful Tips
- For extra tender chicken, cook on low and let it simmer longer.
- Want a little spice? Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika to the BBQ sauce.
- Use frozen chicken in a pinch, but add an extra 30 minutes to the cook time.
- Keep an extra bottle of BBQ sauce nearby to drizzle over the finished sandwiches.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Shred gently: Use two forks or a hand mixer on low speed for perfect texture.
- Don’t overcook: Once tender, switch the slow cooker to “warm” to prevent drying out.
- Customize the flavor: Try spicy, sweet, or honey-style BBQ sauces for variety.
- Meal prep magic: This chicken freezes beautifully for future lunches or dinners.
Recipe Variations
- Garlic BBQ Chicken: Mix 1 teaspoon minced garlic into the sauce before cooking for extra depth.
- Hawaiian BBQ Chicken: Add a small can of crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Spicy BBQ Chicken: Stir in hot sauce or chipotle peppers for heat.
- BBQ Chicken Sliders: Serve on mini buns for parties or game day snacks.
If you’re a fan of easy, crowd-pleasing sandwiches, you’ll love my Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken Sandwiches. They’re rich, cheesy, and full of flavor, making them the perfect creamy complement to this tangy Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken. Together, they’re the ultimate duo for family dinners, game days, or weekend comfort meals.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
This dish is a meal prep dream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of extra BBQ sauce to keep it juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Pile your Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken high on toasted buns with crunchy coleslaw, or serve it over rice, baked potatoes, or even inside tacos. It’s also delicious spooned over a salad for a lighter twist.
Pairing Ideas
Pair with cornbread, roasted veggies, or mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort meal. For drinks, a glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer complements the smoky-sweet BBQ flavor perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly over medium heat on the stovetop or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in a splash of BBQ sauce to restore moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely, thighs are more flavorful and stay juicy longer.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
Smoky, honey, or sweet BBQ sauces all work well. Choose your favorite!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure the chicken is evenly coated and your slow cooker is large enough.
Can I make this in the oven instead?
Yes, bake covered at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, then shred and mix with sauce.
Can I add onions or peppers?
Of course, sliced onions or bell peppers add extra flavor and texture.
Can I make it ahead for parties?
Definitely. Keep it warm in the slow cooker on “low” until ready to serve.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size: | 1 sandwich or portion |
|---|---|
| Calories: | 282 kcal |
| Protein: | 36 g |
| Carbohydrates: | 22 g |
| Fat: | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat: | 1 g |
| Sugar: | 18 g |
| Sodium: | 1424 mg |
| Cholesterol: | 96 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is proof that easy can still be amazing. With just two ingredients, you get a meal that’s tender, flavorful, and ready to serve with minimal effort. It’s the perfect recipe for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone who loves a hands-off dinner that tastes like a weekend cookout any day of the week.
