A little can help even the busiest folks get nourishing meals on the table. And this convenient and versatile slow cooker BBQ chicken is the perfect recipe to add to your weekly rotation! With minimal hands-on time, the soaks up all the smoky, tangy BBQ sauce until it falls apart with the gentle prodding of a fork. This is just as good for a weeknight as it is for a weekend . As Ree says, simply "throw everything in, turn it on, then go live your life!"
What is the best cut of meat for slow cooker BBQ chicken?
Both dark meat and white meat fans will rejoice! This recipe works perfectly with boneless, skinless chicken thighs, breasts, or a combination of the two.
Is it better to cook slow cooker BBQ chicken on high or low?
That entirely depends on the amount of time you have. If you have a full day ahead, set the slow cooker to low and go about your business. If you get a late start on dinner, set the chicken to high heat and expect to be serving a tasty dinner in two hours. That gives you plenty of time to mix up some !
Can slow cooker BBQ chicken be made in advance?
Yes, this BBQ chicken can be cooked up to 3 days in advance! Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it comes time to pile it onto buns for pulled chicken sandwiches, reheat the chicken right in the slow cooker.
BBQ sauce
2tbsp.apple cider vinegar, plus more to taste
2tbsp.packed light brown sugar
1tsp.paprika
1/2tsp.kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/2tsp.ground black pepper
1/4tsp.ground cayenne pepper
4garlic cloves, crushed
1/2medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
3lb.boneless, skinless thighs or breasts
Step 1In a 6- to 8-quart slow cooker, whisk together the BBQ sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic, and onion until well combined. Add the chicken, stirring to ensure it is fully coated with the sauce sauce. Step 2Cover and cook until the chicken is tender and shreds easily, on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.Step 3Remove the chicken to a large cutting board. Remove the garlic cloves, if you like. Using 2 forks, break up the chicken into chunks (or shred it more finely, if you like). Return the chicken to the sauce and stir very well.Step 4Cover and cook on low for 30 minutes more. Taste and add more salt or vinegar, if you like.