The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken)
Looking for a delicious, healthy meal that’s super easy to make? The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken (Easy Pulled Chicken) is your solution! This recipe is loaded with flavor and is perfect for any occasion. It’s a healthier version of traditional BBQ chicken, making it great for meal prep or a satisfying high-protein meal. Whether you’re on a weight loss journey, looking for low-calorie options, or just want a diabetic-friendly recipe, this pulled chicken checks all the boxes. Get ready to enjoy a tender, juicy, and flavorful BBQ chicken that is as convenient as it is nutritious!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken
This recipe is more than just a tasty meal; it’s packed with health benefits. With lean chicken breast as the main ingredient, you’ll be enjoying a high-protein dish that supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer. Plus, the ingredients can be adjusted to suit different dietary preferences, making it a low-calorie, gluten-free, and diabetic-friendly option. It’s also a fantastic lighter option for BBQ lovers who want to indulge without all the guilt!
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Crockpot
A crockpot, or slow cooker, is essential for this recipe. It allows for low, slow cooking that helps the flavors meld together beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Mixing Bowl
A medium-sized mixing bowl is needed to combine the sauces and seasonings. This tool is vital for mixing your ingredients efficiently.
Whisk
A whisk is great for blending your sauce ingredients. It ensures everything is well combined for even flavor distribution.
Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is an important tool to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
INGREDIENTS
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
This lean protein is low in fat and calories, making it a great choice for a healthy high-protein meal. Chicken breasts are versatile and can easily absorb all the delicious BBQ flavors.
1 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
For this recipe, we recommend using Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey BBQ sauce, known for its rich flavor. You can choose a low-sugar or homemade option if you prefer a more health-conscious choice.
1/2 cup Italian dressing
Using a fat-free Italian dressing adds a tangy flavor to the chicken without too many calories. This ingredient also contributes to moisture and flavor.
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Worcestershire sauce brings a depth of flavor to the dish. Its unique taste enhances the overall profile of the BBQ sauce.
1/4 cup light brown sugar
While this ingredient adds a touch of sweetness, you can reduce it to 1/8 cup or omit it entirely for a less sweet version. This makes the recipe even better for those watching their sugar intake.
1 tbsp garlic powder
Garlic powder enhances the flavor without adding calories. It’s a healthy seasoning that contributes to the overall deliciousness of the chicken.
1 tbsp onion powder
Just like garlic powder, onion powder adds incredible flavor while being low-calorie, making it a great seasoning for health-conscious eaters.
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Don’t forget to season your chicken! Adjusting salt and pepper to your preference helps enhance all the flavors in this dish.
HOW TO MAKE The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot
Begin by liberally spraying the inside of a large crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. If you prefer to avoid sticky clean-up, consider using disposable liners designed for crockpots. This will save you time and effort post-meal!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Trim the fat off the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pat them dry and season generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. This step infuses flavors right into the chicken, making each bite tasty.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, Italian dressing, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a whisk to blend everything until it’s well mixed and smooth. This mixture will coat the chicken perfectly during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts in the crockpot. Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on high for 2.5 to 3 hours or low for 5 to 6 hours. Using a meat thermometer, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, you can serve it whole or shred it. For the best flavor, I recommend shredding it right in the crockpot using two forks. This allows the chicken to soak up all the extra marinade and BBQ sauce, enhancing the flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
You can serve this delicious BBQ pulled chicken on buns for a classic BBQ sandwich or enjoy it over rice, in tacos, salads, nachos, or even on its own. The options are endless, and it’s all delicious!
TIPS AND TRICKS
- Healthy Alternatives: You can use sugar-free barbecue sauce to cut down on calories even further, making it a great option for those focusing on weight loss or managing blood sugar levels.
- Great for Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply divide the pulled chicken into portions and store them in airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for longer storage.
- Storage: To store leftovers, ensure the chicken has cooled completely before placing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to four days in the refrigerator or about three months in the freezer.
- Variations: Feel free to switch up the BBQ sauce or seasonings to create a new flavor profile! You could try using a spicy BBQ sauce or add a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, it’s crucial to extend the cooking time to ensure they reach the safe cooking temperature of 165°F. It’s best to use the low setting and cook for 6 to 8 hours.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This pulled chicken is an excellent option for meal prep. It stores well and can be enjoyed in various meals throughout the week.
Can I make this recipe low carbohydrate?
Yes! To make it low carb, you can eliminate the brown sugar and use sugar-free barbecue sauce. Serve it on a low-carb wrap or lettuce instead of buns for a healthier version.
How do I store leftovers from the BBQ chicken?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy within four days, or freeze them for later use. Just remember that proper cooling is essential before sealing!
CONCLUSION
The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken is not only simple to prepare but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional BBQ recipes. With its high protein content and versatility, it’s a perfect choice for meal prep, weight loss, and satisfying those BBQ cravings. Give this recipe a try for your next family dinner or meal prep session! Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you tried; your taste buds will thank you!
Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare Your Crockpot: Liberally spray the inside of a large crockpot with non-stick cooking spray or use disposable liners.
- Season the Chicken: Trim the fat off the chicken breasts, pat them dry, and season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, Italian dressing, light brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 2.5 to 3 hours or low for 5 to 6 hours.
- Check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken in the crockpot using two forks to absorb extra sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve on buns, over rice, in tacos, or enjoy on its own.
