Easy 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe for Tender Flavorful Meals
A simple and flavorful slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken recipe using just three main ingredients, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900 grams) chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat 2 pounds (900 grams) of chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (if using).
- Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of your favorite BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated but not swimming in sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
- Using two forks or tongs, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and mix well with the sauce.
- Optional: Turn the slow cooker to high and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes with the lid off to thicken the sauce if it seems watery.
- Serve the pulled chicken on buns, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
Use chicken thighs for more tenderness and flavor; breasts work for leaner meat. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to prevent heat loss. Shred chicken while warm for best texture. You can freeze shredded chicken in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water or BBQ sauce to keep moist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/6 of the rec
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Protein: 35
Keywords: slow cooker, BBQ pulled chicken, easy recipe, 3-ingredient, weeknight dinner, crockpot, tender chicken, BBQ sauce