Description
This Easy Zesty BBQ Chicken Crockpot Recipe is a flavorful, tender, and family-friendly dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just a few simple pantry ingredients and minimal prep, the slow cooker does all the work, delivering saucy, juicy chicken that pairs well with everything from rice to sandwiches.
Ingredients
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2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
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1 cup barbecue sauce
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1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
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1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire-style sauce (non-pork version)
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: sliced onions, red pepper flakes, fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
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Place chicken thighs or breasts into the bottom of the Crockpot.
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In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, honey or brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire-style sauce, lemon or lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
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Cover the Crockpot and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
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Shred the chicken using two forks right in the Crockpot and stir well so all the chicken is covered in sauce.
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Serve warm with your favorite sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or rolls.
Notes
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Chicken thighs provide the juiciest texture, but chicken breasts also work well.
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If the sauce seems thin after shredding, leave the lid off and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes to thicken.
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Make ahead and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
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You can easily adjust the sweetness or heat to personal preference by adding more honey, lemon, or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours