- Apple (1 large, shredded) [ Adds a Sweet Tickle to the Flavor]
- Carrots (2, sliced thin)
- Cabbage Leaves (3, thinly sliced) [Perfect for Wrapping]
- Salt (to taste) [Enhances Flavors Naturally]
- Black Pepper (freshly ground) [Boosts the Overall Taste]
- Paprika (1 tsp) [Adds a Smoky Flavor]
- Brown Sugar (2 tbsp) [Sweetens the BBQ Sauce Perfectly]
#SlowCookerTips #BBQChicken #PulledChickenRecipe
Steps
## How to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken in the Slow Cooker: A Detailed Guide
**Preparation Time:** 15 minutes
**Cooking Time (in slow cooker):** 4-6 hours
**Servings:** 6-8 people
### Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
- 3 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken**
- Start by washing your chicken breasts or thighs thoroughly under cold water.
- Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they cook evenly.
#### 2. **Marinate the Chicken (Optional)**
- In a small bowl, mix together barbecue sauce and liquid smoke if using.
- Rub this mixture over both sides of the chicken pieces until fully coated. This step can be done up to an hour before cooking or even the night before for better flavor absorption.
#### 3. **Set Up Your Slow Cooker**
- Place the chicken in a slow cooker, making sure it’s positioned so that all parts are covered by liquid.
- Drizzle some olive oil or spray with cooking spray over the chicken to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
#### 4. **Add Seasonings**
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken pieces.
- Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
#### 5. **Cook on Low Heat**
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
- Cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
#### 6. **Shred the Chicken**
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large chunks of bone.
#### 7. **Combine Ingredients**
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker (if using).
- Stir in a generous amount of barbecue sauce to coat the chicken evenly and enhance its flavor.
#### 8. **Serve and Enjoy!**
- Allow the pulled chicken to sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve it hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired.
### Tips and Tricks:
- For extra moisture, add a cup of chicken broth to the slow cooker along with the seasonings.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, use liquid smoke as directed on the package.
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- BBQ pulled chicken
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By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious pulled chicken that is perfectly tender and flavorful. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a get-together with friends, this recipe is sure to impress!