Crockpot Bbq Chicken: Cooking Time Perfection

Cooking chicken in a crockpot is a great way to make a delicious, juicy, and tender meal without having to stand over the stove. This paragraph will discuss how long it takes to cook BBQ chicken breasts in a crockpot and provide a simple recipe to follow.

How long to cook crockpot BBQ chicken breasts on high

The cooking time for crockpot BBQ chicken breasts on high will depend on the weight and size of the chicken breasts, the quantity of chicken being cooked, and the specific model of your crockpot/slow cooker.

For two pounds of chicken, it is recommended to cook the chicken breasts on high for 1.5 to 2 hours. For 3.5 pounds of chicken, it is recommended to cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. For three pounds of chicken, it is recommended to cook on high for 2 to 3 hours.

Chicken is done when it is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165-167˚F and is easy to shred.

How long to cook crockpot BBQ chicken breasts on low

Cooking crockpot BBQ chicken breasts on low is an easy, convenient, and tasty way to prepare chicken. It's perfect for a busy day when you don't want to spend time in the kitchen. Here's a detailed guide on how long to cook crockpot BBQ chicken breasts on low:

Preparation:

Before starting the timer for cooking on low, there are a few simple preparation steps. Firstly, gather your ingredients, which typically include boneless, skinless chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, and various seasonings like brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and spices of your choice. You can also add other ingredients like apple cider vinegar, olive oil, or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.

Next, place the chicken breasts in your crockpot or slow cooker. Then, pour the BBQ sauce and any additional seasonings over the chicken, ensuring that the meat is fully coated. You can also stir the sauce and seasonings together before adding the chicken.

Cooking Time:

Now, it's time to set your crockpot to the low setting. The general cooking time for crockpot BBQ chicken breasts on low is around 4 to 7 hours. However, it's important to note that cooking times may vary depending on several factors. These factors include the size and thickness of your chicken breasts, the size and model of your crockpot, and even personal preferences for doneness.

For example, smaller or thinner chicken breasts may only need 4 to 5 hours on low, while larger or thicker ones might require the full 6 to 7 hours. It's always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions:

Once your crockpot BBQ chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, there are endless ways to serve them. You can shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce, creating a juicy and flavorful filling for sandwiches, sliders, or burgers. It also works great as a topping for salads, nachos, pizzas, or even baked potatoes. You can also use the shredded chicken as a protein-packed addition to tacos, burritos, or rice bowls.

Additionally, crockpot BBQ chicken breasts are excellent for meal prep. You can portion them into containers and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

How to tell when crockpot BBQ chicken breasts are cooked

When cooking crockpot BBQ chicken breasts, it's important to ensure they are cooked thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses. Here are some detailed instructions on how to tell when your crockpot BBQ chicken breasts are cooked just right:

• Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, most slow cookers have a built-in temperature probe that can help you monitor the temperature.
• Look for Clear Juices: Insert a fork into the thickest part of the chicken breast and twist it slightly. If the juices that run out are clear, your chicken is likely done. If the juices are pink or red, it needs more time to cook.
• Check for Easy Shredding: Try shredding a small piece of chicken with a fork. Fully cooked chicken should be tender and easy to shred. If it's still tough and difficult to pull apart, it may need more time in the crockpot.
• Ensure Even Cooking: Depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts, they may cook unevenly. Check multiple spots on each breast to ensure that the meat is cooked evenly throughout.
• Thickness and Size Matter: Keep in mind that the thickness and size of your chicken breasts will affect the cooking time. Smaller or thinner chicken breasts will cook faster, while larger or thicker breasts may take longer to reach the desired internal temperature.
• Avoid Overcooking: While it's important to ensure your chicken is fully cooked, be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Check the temperature and doneness regularly to avoid overcooking.
• Rest and Re-Check: After removing the chicken from the crockpot, let it rest for a few minutes before checking the final temperature. The temperature can rise slightly during this resting period, ensuring that your chicken is perfectly cooked.

Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to handling and consuming chicken. If you're unsure whether your crockpot BBQ chicken breasts are fully cooked, it's best to err on the side of caution and cook them a little longer. Enjoy your delicious and safely cooked meal!

What to serve with crockpot BBQ chicken breasts

There are several side dishes that go well with crockpot BBQ chicken breasts. Here are some ideas:

Salads

• BLT Pasta Salad
• Creamy Cucumber Salad
• Healthy Coleslaw
• Any other salad of your choice

Starchy Sides

• Grilled Sweet Potato Fries
• Air Fryer Potato Wedges
• Homemade Fries
• Potato Salad
• Mac and Cheese
• Baked Potato or Sweet Potato

Beans

• Easy Baked Beans
• Boston Baked Beans

You can also serve the chicken in sandwiches, tacos, on pizza, in bowls, or on nachos.

How to store and reheat crockpot BBQ chicken breasts

Storing your crockpot BBQ chicken breasts is simple. All you need to do is place the leftover chicken in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Make sure to use an airtight, freezer-safe container and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When it comes to reheating, you have a few options. You can use a Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium-low heat, or simply pop it in the microwave. If you're reheating from frozen, be sure to thaw it in the fridge first.

Frequently asked questions