Introduction
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious meal, this slow-cooked barbecue chicken recipe is a perfect choice. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and results in tender, flavorful chicken that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it over rice, in a sandwich, or alongside your favorite side dishes, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1½ cups barbecue sauce
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3-4 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
This method of cooking chicken ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully while the meat becomes perfectly tender. Ideal for a family dinner or meal prep, this barbecue chicken dish will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart crockpot, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure they are thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 3-4 hours. Check for doneness; the chicken is ready when it is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
Step 5: Serve the Chicken
After cooking, you have the option to serve the chicken breasts whole, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Alternatively, you can shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and mix it with the sauce to create pulled chicken.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Meal
Serve the chicken according to your preference. It can be enjoyed on sandwich buns, over rice, or as a tasty addition to your favorite side dishes.
Notes
Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer shelf life.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Adjusting Flavors
Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar for sweetness or add hot sauce for a spicy kick according to your taste preference.
Cooking Variations
This recipe can also be adapted for the oven; cook at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows the flavors of the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and spices to meld while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Cooking on low heat for several hours breaks down the meat fibers, making the chicken easy to shred.
Mixing Ingredients
Combining the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and black pepper in a bowl ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the chicken. Whisking these ingredients together creates a well-blended sauce that enhances the dish.
Shredding Chicken
Once the chicken has finished cooking, shredding it directly in the crockpot allows it to absorb more of the sauce, enhancing its flavor. Use two forks to pull apart the chicken for a pulled chicken texture.
Garnishing
Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. Garnishing with parsley enhances the presentation and complements the BBQ flavors.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it may require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with this barbecue chicken?
This barbecue chicken pairs well with sandwich buns, rice, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or any favorite side dishes.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces and add them at the beginning of the cooking process.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and cook the chicken ahead of time. It will keep well in the refrigerator and can be reheated before serving.
Conclusion
This slow-cooked barbecue chicken recipe is a flavorful and convenient meal option that allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and infused with a delicious sauce. Whether served whole or shredded, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed in various ways, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Barbecue Chicken Tacos
Use the shredded barbecue chicken to fill soft or hard taco shells. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and a drizzle of sour cream for a delicious twist.
Barbecue Chicken Salad
Shred the cooked chicken and toss it over a bed of mixed greens with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing. Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Spread the shredded barbecue chicken over a prepared pizza crust. Add red onions, cheese, and cilantro for a tasty barbecue chicken pizza that is sure to impress.
Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas
Combine the shredded barbecue chicken with cheese and diced peppers, and place in a tortilla. Cook on a skillet until golden and crispy for a delicious quesadilla.
Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches
Serve the shredded chicken on toasted sandwich buns, topped with coleslaw for added crunch and flavor. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal.
