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Best crockpot BBQ chicken sandwich piled high with saucy shredded pulled chicken on a soft bun

The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings 10

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fat trimmed off
  • 1 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray's Honey BBQ recommended)
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing (fat-free works great)
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar (can reduce to 1/8 cup or omit if you prefer less sweet)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Spray the inside of your crockpot or slow cooker generously with non-stick cooking spray, or line with a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
  • Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Place flat in the bottom of the crockpot.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, Italian dressing, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until fully combined.
  • Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Place the lid on.
  • Cook on HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours, or on LOW for 5 to 6 hours. Check at the shortest time first.
  • Use an instant-read meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
  • Once fully cooked, use two large forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir to coat all the shredded chicken in the sauce.
  • Serve on buns for BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches, or use in tacos, pizza, nachos, rice bowls, over baked potatoes, or on its own. Enjoy!

Notes

To Store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To Freeze: Store in an airtight freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To Reheat: Microwave individual portions, or heat in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Chicken Thighs: Boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of or in addition to breasts for extra tenderness.
Less Sweet: Reduce or omit the brown sugar based on your preference, especially if using a sweeter BBQ sauce.
BBQ Sauce Swap: Any BBQ sauce works - sweet, spicy, or tangy. The flavor will vary slightly based on your choice.