Slow cooker BBQ chicken combines chicken breasts with tangy barbecue sauce for fall-apart shredded chicken. Simply dump everything in your Crockpot and get on with your day. It’s my go-to fuss-free dinner!

How to Make Pulled Barbecue Chicken in a Crockpot

This pulled chicken sandwich recipe features homemade barbecue sauce, but I’m using store-bought sauce to cut down on time.

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds chicken breasts
  • 1-1/2 cups barbecue sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Tools You’ll Need

  • Slow Cooker: For recipes you can set and forget in the slow cooker, I recommend using a programmable Crockpot.
  • Digital thermometer: Using a thermometer is the easiest way to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
  • Hand mixer: Forget shredding chicken by hand; use a hand mixer instead. The beater pulls the chicken and creates shreds in seconds.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the chicken breasts

raw chicken with bbq sauce in a crock potJenna Urben for Taste of Home

Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover with barbecue sauce and season with salt. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Step 2: Shred the barbecue chicken

cooked shredded chicken in a crock pot with bbq sauceJenna Urben for Taste of Home

After cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let sit for 5 minutes. Shred chicken, then return to the Crockpot and stir in the sauce. Toss with additional sauce, if desired.

Tips for Making Crockpot BBQ Chicken

  • Position the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  • Use a slow cooker liner for effortless cleanup. It’s a game changer!
  • Store leftover shredded BBQ chicken in a sealed container or airtight bag in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Enjoy saucy shredded chicken on a toasted bun for the ultimate barbecue sandwich!

Love this Crockpot BBQ chicken? Try these other slow cooker BBQ recipes next.