Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a mouthwatering dish that practically cooks itself? Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of Barbecue Chicken wafting through your house, all thanks to your trusty crock pot! This easy-to-follow recipe will have you savoring tender, juicy chicken drenched in a tangy barbecue sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to impress. Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure that promises to delight your taste buds and leave your guests begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup of chopped onion, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure that the chicken will cook evenly in the crock pot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, and paprika. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
- Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring that they are evenly coated. Use a spatula to spread the sauce if necessary.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This low and slow cooking method will make the chicken tender and juicy.
- After 6 hours of cooking, check the chicken for doneness. It should be fully cooked, tender, and easily shredded with a fork.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces if desired.
- Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir it into the remaining barbecue sauce for added flavor.
- Serve the barbecue chicken warm, either on its own or in sandwiches, with sides of your choice such as coleslaw or baked beans.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy days, consider prepping the ingredients the night before. Chop the onions and garlic, and mix the barbecue sauce so that everything is ready to go in the morning.
- Layering Matters: For best results, place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the crock pot. This ensures even cooking and prevents any pieces from drying out.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces to find your favorite flavor profile. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
- Check for Doneness: After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should shred easily with a fork. If it’s not quite there, let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour.
- Serve Creatively: This barbecue chicken isn't just for plates! Use it as a filling for sandwiches, tacos, or even on top of a salad for a delicious twist.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This chicken is great for meal prep and can be used in various dishes throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 233kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 26g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
