Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is a simple and delicious recipe that combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with the sweet and tangy flavors of Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Serve it as pulled chicken sandwiches, over rice, or with your favorite sides for a meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 1/2 cups Sweet Baby Ray’s Barbecue Sauce (or your favorite BBQ sauce)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for extra tang)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in the bottom of your crockpot. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until well mixed.
Step 3: Add the Sauce to the Crockpot
- Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are fully coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken into the barbecue sauce to coat it evenly.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the shredded BBQ chicken on buns for sandwiches, over rice, or with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.
Cook Notes
- Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts, but both work well in this recipe.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to reduce. Alternatively, you can thicken the sauce by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoonsof water, then stirring it into the sauce.
- Spicy Version: For a spicy BBQ chicken, add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture.
Variations
- Honey BBQ Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of honey to the sauce mixture for a sweeter flavor.
- Pineapple BBQ Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
- BBQ Chicken Tacos: Use the shredded BBQ chicken as a filling for tacos, and top with slaw, cilantro, and lime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but keep in mind that it may increase the cooking time. For safety, make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the BBQ chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this BBQ chicken?
Yes, shredded BBQ chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including coleslaw, potato salad, mac and cheese, baked beans, or cornbread. It’s also great served over rice or in a sandwich.
Can I make this recipe without a crockpot?
Yes, you can make this in a slow oven or on the stovetop. Bake the chicken covered in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 2-3 hours or simmer on the stovetop in a covered pot until the chicken is tender.
Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is an easy and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. The combination of tender chicken and sweet, tangy BBQ sauce makes this dish perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a main dish with your favorite sides. Customize it to your liking and enjoy this delicious, crowd-pleasing meal!
