Name: Zesty Slow Cooker Chicken Barbecue!!!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-484950H2M20S
Total time: PT-484950H2M20S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade); Italian dressing; Brown sugar; Worcestershire sauce; Salt; Pepper

This zesty slow cooker chicken barbecue is the ultimate easy comfort food. It’s juicy, tangy, and packed with flavor from a perfect blend of barbecue sauce and spices. I just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while I go about my day.

Zesty Slow Cooker Chicken Barbecue!!!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe requires almost no effort but delivers big-time flavor. The slow cooking makes the chicken incredibly tender and perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even served over rice. It’s great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, and the zesty kick keeps it from being just another basic BBQ dish.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Barbecue sauce (my favorite brand or homemade)
Italian dressing
Brown sugar
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper

directions

I place the chicken in the bottom of my slow cooker.
In a bowl, I mix together the barbecue sauce, Italian dressing, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
I pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s coated well.
I cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fork-tender.
I shred the chicken in the slow cooker using two forks and stir it into the sauce.
I serve it hot on buns, over rice, in wraps, or however I like.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Prep time is just 5 minutes, and cook time is 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Variations

I like using chicken thighs for extra juiciness. Sometimes I add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for more heat. For a smoky twist, I stir in a bit of smoked paprika or chipotle powder. I’ve even tried it with peach or pineapple preserves for a sweet and spicy combo.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave it until hot. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; I just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, I’ve used frozen chicken before—just make sure to cook it on low and extend the time slightly.

What kind of barbecue sauce works best?

I like using a smoky or spicy BBQ sauce, but sweet or vinegar-based sauces work great too.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

Yes, I cook it on high pressure for about 12-15 minutes with a natural release, then shred the chicken and stir it into the sauce.

Is this good for meal prep?

Absolutely. I portion it into containers with rice or buns and it keeps well for several days.

Can I use this for pulled chicken sliders?

Definitely. I pile it high on slider buns, maybe add coleslaw, and it’s always a hit at parties.

Conclusion

This zesty slow cooker chicken barbecue is one of my go-to recipes when I want something hearty, flavorful, and completely effortless. The slow cooker does all the work, and the results are always delicious. Whether I’m feeding family or prepping meals for the week, this dish is a winner every time.