Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: slow cooker barbecue chicken! Seriously, it’s a game changer. If you’re like me and love the idea of a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this is the dish for you. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and by the time you’re done with your day, you’ll be greeted by the most mouthwatering aroma wafting through your home. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
The beauty of slow cooker barbecue chicken lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you get tender, juicy chicken that practically shreds itself, all bathed in a rich barbecue sauce. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it on a bun, pile it on a plate with sides, or even use it in a salad. Trust me, once you try this easy recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients for your slow cooker barbecue chicken is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken fillets: These are the stars of the show. Make sure they’re fresh or properly thawed if frozen.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce: Use your favorite brand for a personal touch! Whether you prefer sweet, smoky, or spicy, this will infuse your chicken with amazing flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: This adds an extra layer of moisture and richness. Homemade or store-bought works just fine!
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A little dash of this brings depth to the flavor profile, so don’t skip it!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that delicious garlicky goodness without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: It adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go! Seasoning is key to making this dish sing.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken
Now, let’s dive into the fun part – preparing your slow cooker barbecue chicken! It’s as straightforward as it gets, and you’ll be amazed at how little effort it takes to create such a flavorful meal. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring that deliciousness in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start with the chicken: Place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken fillets right into your slow cooker. You want them to have enough space to soak up all that amazing sauce, so don’t overcrowd them.
- Mix your sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir until everything is blended. This is where the magic begins!
- Pour it over: Carefully pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure each piece is coated nicely – it’ll help in achieving that juicy, tender result we’re going for.
- Cover and set: Put the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I usually go for low and slow; it really lets those flavors mingle and develop!
- Shred the chicken: Once the cooking time is up, take a fork (or two!) and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the sauce so every bite is packed with flavor. Wow, just look at that deliciousness!
- Serve it up: Now, it’s time to enjoy your creation! You can serve the barbecue chicken on soft buns, pile it onto a plate with your favorite sides, or get creative and toss it in a salad. The options are endless!
And there you have it! A simple, no-fuss approach to making slow cooker barbecue chicken that’s sure to impress. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful and Tender: The slow cooking process ensures your chicken is incredibly tender and infused with delicious barbecue flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you pile it on a bun, serve it with sides, or toss it into a salad, this dish adapts to any meal occasion.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love barbecue chicken! It’s a surefire hit at the dinner table.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even as a topping for nachos!
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces to match your taste preferences. Sweet, smoky, spicy – the choice is yours!
Tips for Success
To make sure your slow cooker barbecue chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I’ve gathered along the way. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will help you nail this recipe like a pro!
Keep an Eye on Timing
Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model and the size of the chicken fillets. If you’re using larger pieces, you may need to extend the cooking time by an hour or so. Always check for doneness – the chicken should shred easily and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you have a meat thermometer, it’s a great tool to have on hand!
Ingredient Swaps
If you’re looking to mix it up, feel free to swap out some ingredients! For instance, you can use thighs instead of fillets for a richer flavor. You can also try different types of barbecue sauce – maybe go for a spicy chipotle or a tangy mustard-based sauce. Each variation adds a whole new layer of deliciousness!
Thickening the Sauce
If you find the sauce a bit too thin for your liking, don’t worry! Once the chicken is shredded, you can transfer it to a saucepan and simmer it on the stove for a few minutes to thicken it up. Alternatively, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) and cook until it thickens. It’s a quick fix that enhances the texture!
Leftover Magic
Leftovers can be a lifesaver! Store any extra chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can easily reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. It also freezes beautifully! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning
Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Tasting as you go is crucial. Seasoning is where a lot of the flavor comes from, so adjust it to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, toss in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be set for success with your slow cooker barbecue chicken. Happy cooking! You’ve got this!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of my slow cooker barbecue chicken. While it’s a deliciously satisfying meal, it’s also nice to know what you’re putting on your plate. Here’s a handy breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of barbecue sauce or chicken broth. But overall, it’s a hearty option that won’t leave you feeling guilty! Enjoy knowing that you’re indulging in a meal that’s not just tasty but also packed with protein and flavor. Yum!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken fillets?
Absolutely! You can start with frozen chicken fillets if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the cooking time will be a little longer. If you’re cooking on low, aim for about 8-10 hours, and on high, you might be looking at around 4-5 hours. Just make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding. It’s a great way to make dinner even easier!
What barbecue sauce works best?
Oh, this is one of my favorite parts! The great thing about slow cooker barbecue chicken is that you can truly customize it with your favorite barbecue sauce. Whether you love a sweet Kansas City style, a tangy vinegar-based sauce from the Carolinas, or something with a smoky kick, it all works! Just remember that the flavor of your sauce will really shine through since it’s the base of the dish. So, pick one that excites your taste buds!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let any extra chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about three days, perfect for quick lunches or dinners. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. You’ll be able to enjoy that delicious barbecue flavor all over again!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of delicious slow cooker barbecue chicken, it’s time to think about how to serve it! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your meal from great to absolutely unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the rich, smoky flavors of the chicken:
- Classic Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. The creaminess of coleslaw balances everything perfectly!
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn is a summertime favorite. Grilling or boiling it brings out its natural sweetness, making it a delightful side.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is another classic that pairs beautifully with barbecue. It’s filling and adds a nice texture to your meal.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness and heartiness of baked beans complement the barbecue chicken wonderfully. Plus, they’re a great source of protein!
- Macaroni and Cheese: This comfort food favorite is a crowd-pleaser! The cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with the hearty chicken for a satisfying meal.
- Grilled Veggies: For a lighter option, toss some seasonal veggies on the grill. Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and a nice charred flavor that works well with the dish.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce. It makes for a fulfilling meal!
Don’t be afraid to mix and match these sides based on your cravings or what you have on hand. The beauty of this meal is its versatility. Enjoy your slow cooker barbecue chicken with these accompaniments, and watch your family and friends come back for seconds!
Print
Slow Cooker Barbecue Chicken: 5 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow cooker barbecue chicken is a simple and delicious meal that requires minimal effort. The chicken cooks in a flavorful barbecue sauce, making it tender and juicy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken fillets
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken fillets in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve on buns or with sides of your choice.
Notes
- Use your favorite barbecue sauce for different flavors.
- This dish pairs well with coleslaw.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: slow cooker barbecue chicken
