Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The tangy flavor combination of bbq sauce and Italian dressing makes this slow cooker bbq chicken a family favorite that can be enjoyed any time of year. With just a few ingredients and a few hours of cook time, you’ll be glad you gave this recipe a try.

Shredded meats are so easy to make in the slow cooker! You will also love my BBQ pulled pork, and my Mexican shredded beef recipe.

Why This Recipe Works

In today’s hustle of everyday life, families need feasible options to help put easy meals on the table. This is where slow cooker bbq chicken comes to the rescue. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen prepping food or standing over a hot stove.

Instead, you can dump all the ingredients in the crockpot and walk away. The only thing to consider at this point would be what side dishes you’d like to pair with this yummy meal. I’ll share a few serving suggestions later, but for now, check out how easy this recipe is to make.

Recipe Ingredients

ingredients for crockpot bbq chicken on a table

Chicken – To get the best results, use boneless skinless chicken breasts
Brown Sugar – This helps add a sweetness to the tangy barbecue sauce and Italian dressing combo.
Italian Dressing – Provides a tart kick to the overall sauce that surprisingly mends everything together.
Salt and Pepper – Gives the chicken a little flavor of its own.
Olive Oil – Adds a bit of moisture to the chicken breasts.

Step-by-Step Directions

3 image collage on how to put ingredients in slow cooker for bbq chicken

Step One – Place each breast in the crockpot and drizzle with olive oil. Add a dash of salt and pepper, then flip and repeat for the other side.

Step Two – Add Italian dressing, brown sugar, and bbq sauce. Stir until it is well combined.

Step Three – Turn the slow cooker on low and cook for 5-6 hours.

Step Four – Shred the chicken while it’s still in the crockpot using two forks.

Step Five – To help the shredded chicken soak up the flavor, cook for an additional 30 minutes. Serve and enjoy!

Serving ideas for shredded BBQ chicken:

Sandwiches – When it comes to shredded chicken, you can’t go wrong with making a classic chicken sandwich. While you can go for regular buns, these are best served on Kaiser buns. Great topped with colelsaw and dill pickles.
Wraps – The tender pulled chicken can also be served inside of wraps with a side of cheesy jalapeno corn or a nice helping of coleslaw.
Salad – If you really want to take this meal outside the box, consider adding a nice helping on top of a bowl of salad (or rice) drizzled with a bit of zesty dressing.
BBQ Pizza or Quesadillas – If you end up with leftovers from the suggestions mentioned above, have a go at making a mini shredded bbq chicken pizza or a few quesadillas. Mozzarella cheese and cilantro are a must when making BBQ pizza or quesadillas.

Recipes FAQs and Variations

How can I make this recipe spicy?

If you want to add a spicy kick to this recipe, consider adding a few dashes (or teaspoon) of chipotle chili powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper. Continue adding until you’ve reached your desired level of spice.

Can I cook this recipe on a high setting?

Short answer, yes. However, you can 100% overcook the chicken. Because of the lower fat content of chicken breasts, there is the possibility of them drying out even if you check them often or early. It’s best to cook this recipe on low for the best results.

Is it possible to use skinless chicken thighs?

Yes. And the good part is nothing needs to change with the recipe!

Is there a specific bbq sauce I should use?

Of course, you can never go wrong with Sweet Baby Ray’s; however, you can use what you’re most comfortable with. You can even have a go at making your own homemade bbq sauce. You can even use a spicy barbecue sauce.

What are the best ways to store the leftovers?

If you just so happen to have them, pour the leftovers into an airtight storage container (glass is always best). It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to use a freezer-safe container. Reheat them on the stove over medium-low heat when you’re ready to enjoy them.

shredded barbecue chicken on a bun with coleslaw

Want to make more magic in your crockpot? Stay up to date and subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Tik Tok, and YouTube.