Craving a fuss-free, delicious meal that’s good for you? This Healthy Slow Cooker Pulled BBQ Chicken recipe delivers tender, flavor-packed chicken perfect for sandwiches, salads, or bowls. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare a healthy BBQ chicken recipe your whole family will enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs also work well for a richer flavor.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose a low-sugar, natural BBQ sauce. You can also make your own with tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and spices.
- Onion: White or yellow onion is fine.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves offer the best flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Chicken Broth: Low sodium is best. Water can be used if you don’t have broth.
Ingredients
Main
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (15 oz) bottle low-sugar BBQ sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
Spices
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-6 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (varies by BBQ sauce)
- Tools: Slow cooker, two forks for shredding
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
First, chop your onion and mince your garlic. Place the chicken breasts evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. This ensures even cooking.
2. Combine Flavors
Next, sprinkle the smoked paprika, chili powder, and black pepper over the chicken. Pour the BBQ sauce and chicken broth over everything, then scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic on top. Gently stir to combine the sauce and spices with the chicken.
3. Cook Slowly
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easy to shred when done. You’re making healthy BBQ chicken recipes easy!
4. Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the shredded chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 15-20 minutes on the warm setting to fully absorb the flavors. Serve your delicious healthy slow cooker pulled BBQ chicken on whole wheat buns, over rice, or in lettuce wraps.
Variation Ideas
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.
- Stir in a can of drained, rinsed black beans during the last hour for added protein and fiber.
- For a touch of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño with the onions.
- Incorporate diced bell peppers (any color) for extra vegetables and sweetness.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Healthy Slow Cooker Pulled BBQ Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on either setting to ensure they are fully cooked.
How do I make my own healthy BBQ sauce?
Combine tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, a little maple syrup or honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a simple homemade version.
What are good serving suggestions for this chicken?
Serve it on whole-wheat buns, in lettuce wraps, over baked potatoes, with brown rice, or alongside a simple green salad.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for meal prepping. Cook a batch at the beginning of the week for quick and healthy meals.
Why is using a low-sugar BBQ sauce important?
Many store-bought BBQ sauces contain a lot of added sugar. Choosing a low-sugar option helps keep this a healthy BBQ chicken recipe.
My sauce is too thin, what can I do?
Remove the chicken, then whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on high, stirring, until thickened, then return the chicken.
