Easy Slow Cooker Pulled BBQ Chicken

• •1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• • to taste salt
• • to taste black pepper
• •1 yellow onion, small, finely diced
• •2 garlic cloves, minced
• •18 oz BBQ sauce, good quality
• •2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• •1 tablespoon light brown sugar, packed
• •1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• •1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

1. 1

   Lightly season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and black pepper.

2. 2

   Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.

3. 3

   In a medium bowl, combine the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, light brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

4. 4

   Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.

5. 5

   Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.

6. 6

   Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker to a cutting board or large bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Discard any excess fat.

7. 7

   Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the BBQ sauce until thoroughly coated.

8. 8

   Allow the shredded chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 15-30 minutes on LOW (or WARM setting) to absorb more flavor, if time permits. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

9. 9

   Serve warm on hamburger buns, slider rolls, baked potatoes, or alongside coleslaw.

Chef's Tips

• 💡For extra flavor, you can quickly sear the chicken thighs in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side before adding them to the slow cooker.
• 💡If your BBQ sauce is already very sweet, you can reduce or omit the brown sugar.
• 💡This recipe is excellent for meal prepping. Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
• 💡Feel free to customize the sauce with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or a dash of liquid smoke for a more intense smoky flavor.
• 💡Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used, but thighs tend to stay more moist and flavorful in the slow cooker.