How long does it take to cook BBQ chicken in a crock pot?

Typically, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until easily shreddable. Bone-in cuts might take slightly longer.

Do you put water in crock pot for chicken?

No, generally not. Chicken releases its own moisture, and adding water can dilute the BBQ sauce flavor. The sauce itself provides sufficient liquid for slow cooking.

How do you shred chicken in a Crock-Pot?

Once cooked and tender, use two forks to pull the chicken apart directly in the crockpot. Alternatively, remove the chicken to a cutting board, shred, and then return it to the sauce.

How do you keep chicken from drying out in a crock pot?

Ensure there's enough sauce to coat the chicken, avoid overcooking, and use cuts like boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which retain moisture better than breasts.

What cut of chicken is best for shredded BBQ chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are often preferred for their juiciness and flavor, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts also work well and are a leaner option.

Can you put raw chicken in a slow cooker with sauce?

Yes, absolutely. Place raw chicken directly into the slow cooker, cover it with your desired BBQ sauce, and cook until tender and fully cooked through.

The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken: So Easy & Tender! 2025

Name: The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-489044H43M34S
Total time: PT-489044H43M34S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 ½ cups of your favorite BBQ sauce; ¼ cup chicken broth or water; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; Hamburger buns, for serving (optional)

The Best Crockpot BBQ Chicken

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This easy crockpot BBQ chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero. With just 5 minutes of prep, you get tender, juicy shredded chicken that’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, and more. A true set-it-and-forget-it meal that makes busy days feel manageable.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: 4-6 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 ½ cups of your favorite BBQ sauce
¼ cup chicken broth or water
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Hamburger buns, for serving (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken in the bottom of your crockpot. Season it evenly with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Combine and Cook: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the crockpot. Give it a gentle stir to make sure the chicken is coated. Place the lid on and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
Shred and Serve: Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the remaining sauce. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Smart Swaps: Use sugar-free or low-sodium BBQ sauce. Chicken thighs yield richer shredded chicken while breasts are leaner. You can substitute broth with water in a pinch. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (chicken only)
Calories: 245
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/the-best-crockpot-bbq-chicken/