Barbecued Chicken Breasts
Tender, juicy barbecue chicken breasts cooked slowly in a crock-pot, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or gatherings, with rich smoky flavors and fall-apart tenderness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange chicken breasts in the crock-pot.
- Mix together barbecue sauce, water, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Turn the chicken over after half of the cooking time if possible.
- Serve when chicken is tender and falls off the bone.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the barbecue sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can substitute the barbecue sauce with your favorite homemade version or even use honey mustard for a different taste. Don't forget to check the chicken's internal temperature; it should reach 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued chicken breasts with a side of coleslaw or cornbread for a classic barbecue meal. They also pair well with grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a complete dinner, consider serving them alongside dishes like Donna'S Chicken or Kenny'S Kool Chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbecued chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Chicken Breasts contains roughly 388 calories, with 27g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 970mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them beforehand for even cooking. If using frozen, you may need to adjust the cooking time, potentially increasing it by an hour or so. Ensure that the internal temperature still reaches 165°F for safety.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
The best barbecue sauce depends on your personal taste. Sweet, tangy sauces like Kansas City-style are popular, but you might also enjoy mustard-based sauces or vinegar-based ones for a different flavor profile. Experimenting with different brands or homemade sauces can yield delicious results!
Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of a crock-pot?
Absolutely! To cook in the oven, preheat to 375°F, place the chicken in a baking dish, pour the sauce mixture over, and cover with foil. Bake for 30-40 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).