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Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe

Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe

Tender shredded chicken simmered in a tangy-sweet BBQ sauce. Perfect for sandwiches, bowls, or weeknight tacos.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.75 cup diced yellow onion
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 2.25 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts trimmed
  • 0.75 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder
  • 0.75 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.75 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1.25 cup barbecue sauce your favorite style
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp packed brown sugar

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Soften the onion for 3–4 minutes.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Add broth, barbecue sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  • Nestle in the chicken, cover, and simmer over low heat for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until 165°F.
  • Transfer chicken to a board and shred with two forks. Return to the pot and toss with the sauce.
  • Simmer uncovered 5–7 minutes to thicken. Taste and adjust salt or vinegar if needed. Serve warm.

Notes

Variation: Swap half the chicken breasts for boneless thighs for extra tenderness and richer flavor. Slow cooker option: combine everything and cook on Low 4–5 hours, then shred and mix back in.
Serving tip: Pile onto toasted buns with crunchy slaw, or spoon over rice or baked potatoes. Leftovers keep 4 days refrigerated or 2 months frozen.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.