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–+ servings

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

Tender shredded chicken simmered low and slow in a sweet-smoky barbecue sauce. Perfect for easy sandwiches, bowls, or meal prep.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 cup thick barbecue sauce
  • 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp packed brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 0.5 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.75 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2.25 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch optional, for thickening
  • 1 tbsp water for cornstarch slurry

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Whisk barbecue sauce, broth, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire, garlic, onion, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.
  • Add chicken and turn to coat in the sauce mixture.
  • Cover and cook on Low 6–7 hours or High 3–4 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
  • Transfer chicken to a board and shred with two forks.
  • Stir cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Whisk it into the cooker juices and cook on High 10–15 minutes until thickened.
  • Return shredded chicken to the sauce, toss to coat, and let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Variation: For extra heat, add 1–2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo. Prefer dark meat? Swap half the breasts for boneless thighs. Serving ideas: Pile onto toasted buns with slaw, spoon over baked potatoes, or serve with rice and steamed greens. Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months; reheat gently with a splash of broth if needed.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.