why make this recipe
Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is a delicious and easy set-it-and-forget-it meal. Using a slow cooker means less hands-on time and more time for you to enjoy with family or friends. The chicken comes out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor from the barbecue sauce. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, making it a crowd-pleaser.
how to make Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 (18 oz) bottle Sweet Baby Ray’s Original Barbecue Sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Hamburger buns, coleslaw, pickles, or rice (for serving)
Directions
- Place chicken in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour evenly over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and shreds easily.
- Shred the chicken and return it to the crockpot, stirring to coat in the sauce. Let sit for 10-15 minutes on WARM.
- Serve on buns, over rice, or as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.
how to serve Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
You can serve this dish in many ways. For a classic approach, pile the shredded chicken onto hamburger buns and add your favorite toppings like coleslaw and pickles. If you prefer something lighter, serve it over rice or use it as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.
how to store Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
tips to make Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the barbecue sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- You can also add chopped onions or bell peppers to the crockpot for added texture and flavor.
variation
You can switch up the barbecue sauce for a different flavor. Try a spicy or homemade barbecue sauce for a unique twist. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs or even swap the chicken for turkey.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just cook it on high for about an hour longer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before. Just store the chicken and sauce in the fridge, and then cook it the next day.
What can I use instead of Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce?
You can use any brand of barbecue sauce you like or try a homemade recipe if you prefer.
Sweet Baby Ray's Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Place chicken in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour evenly over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and shreds easily.
- Shred the chicken and return it to the crockpot, stirring to coat in the sauce. Let sit for 10-15 minutes on WARM.
- Serve on buns, over rice, or as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.