If you’re on the lookout for a no-fuss, guaranteed-to-please dinner that requires almost zero effort, this simple three-ingredient slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken is your new best friend. It’s as easy as toss, set, and forget—ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just tender chicken, your favorite BBQ sauce, and a little something extra, you can have a hearty, mouthwatering meal ready without any hassle.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- ½ cup chicken stock (or water)
Instructions
To get started, simply gather your chicken, BBQ sauce, and stock. Lightly coat the bottom of your slow cooker with a bit of oil, or use cooking spray if you prefer. Place the chicken inside, making sure to lay the pieces flat in one layer. Next, pour the chicken stock (or water) right over the top—this helps keep the meat moist and prevents it from drying out during the cook. Finally, drizzle the BBQ sauce evenly across the chicken, allowing it to seep into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.
Once everything is assembled, cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat for about six hours. If you’re pressed for time, four hours on high will still yield juicy, tender chicken. While the slow cooker does its magic, you can go about your day—no need to check in or stir.
When your timer goes off, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker, mixing all the saucy goodness together. Taste and check if it needs a pinch of salt or a dash of extra spice. If you’d like a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes or so to reduce. Otherwise, you’re ready to serve up a big, delightful batch of BBQ pulled chicken!
Pile it high on buns with a crunchy slaw, layer it in tacos topped with fresh cilantro and diced onions, or spoon it over fluffy rice. The possibilities are endless.
This recipe is fantastic for anyone craving a hands-off dinner option. If you’re watching your sugar intake, try using a low-sugar BBQ sauce, or experiment with homemade blends to control the sweetness. You can also swap the chicken for a pork shoulder if you prefer.
Whatever twist you choose, there’s no denying the convenience and crowd-pleasing power of a three-ingredient meal that cooks itself while you tackle other things. It’s the perfect solution for busy families, first-time cooks, and anyone who wants a comforting, no-fail dinner that practically takes care of itself.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
