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slow cooker bbq chicken in a serving bowl.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

4.53 from 19 votes
This slow cooker BBQ chicken is the ultimate easy dinner—perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and crowd-pleasing meals. With endless serving options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!
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Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time6 hours
Servings: 6
Author: Molly

INGREDIENTS

Spice Rub

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

BBQ Sauce (see notes for store bought)

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 (15oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Mix together the spice rub in a small bowl.
    1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pat the chicken breast dry and rub spices evenly on the chicken to coat fully.
    2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Add the BBQ sauce ingredients to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Place the seasoned chicken in the sauce, nestling it down so it's fully covered.
    3 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 (15oz) can tomato sauce, 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar, 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 Tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3 hours. Start checking the chicken for doneness at 6 hours. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Larger chicken breasts will take longer to cook.
  • Use two forks to shred the chicken while it’s still in the crock pot. Serve immediately over roasted sweet potatoes, on a bun or on a BBQ chicken salad.

Notes

To Store – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Freeze– Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Store Bought BBQ Sauce. You can use 1 1/2 cups sugar free BBQ sauce instead of homemade. Primal Kitchen is my favorite brand.

Nutrition

Serving: 4ounces | Calories: 216kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 97mg | Sodium: 810mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 828IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 1mg
Did you make this recipe?Mention @What_mollymade or tag #WhatMollyMade so I can see it and feature you!