Slow-Pot Chicken Barbecue
Tender slow-cooked chicken infused with smoky barbecue flavors, sweet cola, and tangy ketchup, perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up the chicken and place it in the crock-pot.
- Add the can of cola and ketchup to the crock-pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 5 1/2 hours or until the chicken is done.
- Alternatively, cook in a slow oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or garlic to the crock-pot. If you're out of cola, root beer or ginger ale can be used as a substitute. To make it spicier, add a dash of cayenne or your favorite hot sauce. This recipe can also be adapted for pulled chicken by shredding the meat after cooking, similar to how it's done in Tasty Chicken Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue chicken on a bun for a hearty sandwich or over rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with coleslaw or cornbread for a classic barbecue spread. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad like Bonny'S Chicken Salad. You can also use it as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Slow-Pot Chicken Barbecue contains roughly 85 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 874mg per serving (38% 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 for this recipe?
It's recommended to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, extend the cooking time and ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. However, for best results, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before cooking.
What type of cola works best for this recipe?
Any regular cola will work, but using a brand with a strong flavor can enhance the dish. Avoid diet colas, as the sugar content in regular cola helps caramelize the chicken and adds depth to the sauce.
Can I add vegetables to the crock-pot?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes for a complete meal. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as denser vegetables may take longer to cook. Cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly with the chicken.
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).