There’s nothing quite like the smell of BBQ chicken slowly cooking to tender perfection—especially when your crockpot does all the work. Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule, feeding a hungry crowd, or just craving something saucy and satisfying, these slow-cooked BBQ chicken recipes are here to save the day. No babysitting the grill, no last-minute panicking—just set it, forget it, and come home to a meal that tastes like you spent hours slaving over the stove.
From sticky-sweet honey BBQ to smoky chipotle-infused pulled chicken, these recipes pack in bold flavors with minimal effort. Picture juicy chicken thighs bathed in tangy homemade sauce, falling apart at the touch of a fork, or tender shredded chicken piled high on buns for the ultimate sloppy sandwiches. Maybe you’re in the mood for BBQ chicken tacos with a crunchy slaw topping, or a hearty bowl of BBQ chicken and beans that sticks to your ribs. Whatever your craving, these crockpot creations deliver big taste without the fuss.
We’ve included options for every palate—spicy, sweet, savory, and even a few unexpected twists (BBQ chicken pizza dip, anyone?). Plus, handy tips on the best cuts of chicken to use, how to amp up store-bought sauce, and clever ways to repurpose leftovers into new meals. So grab your slow cooker, pick your favorite flavor, and let’s turn simple chicken into something extraordinary.
Zesty Lemon Herb BBQ Chicken
This Zesty Lemon Herb BBQ Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic crockpot dish. Bursting with tangy lemon and fresh herbs, it’s a flavorful option that brings a bright note to your dinner table. The great thing about this recipe is how simple it is; just toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do all the work!
The combination of juicy chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering experience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Serve it with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slices of lemon for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs before serving.
Creamy Ranch BBQ Chicken
Creamy Ranch BBQ Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines the rich flavors of ranch seasoning and BBQ sauce for a delightful meal. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
The chicken cooks slowly in the crockpot, soaking up all the flavors while becoming tender and juicy. With a creamy sauce that brings everything together, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
- Add to Crockpot: Place the seared chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, followed by the ranch seasoning mix. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Make the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cream cheese to the crockpot. Stir until well combined and melted into the sauce.
- Serve: Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it into the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken
This Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that come together effortlessly in your crockpot. With tender chicken soaking in a rich honey garlic sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without much fuss.
Making this dish is as simple as combining a few ingredients and letting your slow cooker do the rest. The result is juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor, making it a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Combine in the Crockpot: Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and season with salt and pepper. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Shred the chicken with a fork and mix it back into the sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken
Sweet and spicy BBQ chicken is a mouthwatering dish that brings together tender chicken with a delightful blend of flavors. The sweetness from the barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with a kick of heat, making every bite a delicious experience. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare in your crockpot!
With minimal effort, you can create a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Just toss the ingredients in the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Combine: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce. Serve warm, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
BBQ Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
BBQ Chicken with Pineapple Salsa is a delightful dish that brings together the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken and the refreshing zest of pineapple salsa. This recipe is incredibly simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a summer BBQ.
The tender chicken is infused with barbecue sauce, and the pineapple salsa adds a burst of freshness with every bite. It’s a dish that doesn’t require much effort but delivers big on flavor. Serve it over rice or in tacos for a satisfying meal!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the BBQ sauce, mixing well.
- Serve: Top the BBQ chicken with the pineapple salsa and enjoy over rice or in tortillas!
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken
This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves a little heat in their meals. It combines tender chicken with a smoky and spicy barbecue sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. Best of all, it’s super simple to make—just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
The smoky chipotle flavor gives this chicken a unique twist that elevates it beyond your average BBQ. Serve it on a bun, over rice, or alongside your favorite sides for a delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
- 1 cup smoky chipotle BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Combine in Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot and pour the smoky chipotle BBQ sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
- Shred and Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken right in the crockpot and mix it well with the sauce. Serve on buns, over rice, or with your favorite sides.
Cajun Spiced BBQ Chicken
Cajun Spiced BBQ Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic barbecue dish. This recipe combines the smoky, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning with tender chicken, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and full of personality. The slow cooker does all the work, making it easy for anyone to whip up a delicious dinner without breaking a sweat.
The blend of spices gives the chicken a nice kick, while the barbecue sauce adds a touch of sweetness. It’s a simple recipe that will impress your family and friends with its rich flavor and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are evenly coated.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place the chopped onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well covered. You can reserve some sauce for serving if desired.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides.
Teriyaki BBQ Chicken
Teriyaki BBQ Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that makes for an easy and satisfying meal. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich teriyaki sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. Just toss the ingredients in a crockpot, set it, and let it work its magic. You’ll have a flavorful meal ready without the fuss!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour this mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat it well.
- Add Pineapple: If using, add pineapple chunks on top of the chicken for extra sweetness and flavor.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Once cooked, shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Smoky BBQ Chicken with Bacon
This Smoky BBQ Chicken with Bacon is a deliciously simple dish that brings together the sweet and tangy flavors of barbecue sauce with the savory crunch of crispy bacon. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this recipe is made effortlessly in a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as the chicken cooks low and slow.
The combination of smoky barbecue and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering experience that pairs perfectly with rice, baked potatoes, or a fresh salad. With minimal prep time, it’s a go-to for those looking for fuss-free, flavor-loaded meals that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place them in the crockpot.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce over the seasoned chicken, ensuring they are well coated.
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle the chopped bacon on top of the chicken and sauce.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Shred the chicken in the sauce and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Apple BBQ Chicken
Apple BBQ Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional barbecue that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of apples. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers a flavor profile that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy BBQ sauce and fresh apple slices, creating a balance that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Making this dish is a breeze—just toss everything into your crockpot and let it do the work. Perfect for busy weeknights, you’ll love how easy it is to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups apple slices (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer Ingredients: Place the apple slices in the bottom of the crockpot. Then, lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken and apples, ensuring everything is well-coated.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Once done, shred the chicken if desired, mixing it with the apples and sauce. Serve hot, and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Mediterranean BBQ Chicken
This Mediterranean BBQ Chicken recipe is a delightful twist on classic BBQ flavors, blending tangy and savory notes for a meal that’s both comforting and exciting. With its mix of herbs and spices, this dish offers a unique taste experience that transports you straight to the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean.
What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity. Just throw everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax. It’s perfect for busy days and ensures you have a delicious, fuss-free meal ready when you are!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place in the slow cooker.
- Add Ingredients: Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, then add the olives, cherry tomatoes, and dried oregano. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving. This dish pairs well with rice or a fresh salad.
Buffalo BBQ Chicken
Buffalo BBQ Chicken is a tasty twist on your classic barbecue dish that brings a delightful kick of flavor. This recipe combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce with the spicy tang of buffalo sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s easy to prepare in a crockpot.
Simple and satisfying, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Just toss the ingredients in the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day. Whether served over rice, in a sandwich, or with a side of veggies, this Buffalo BBQ Chicken will surely please everyone’s palate.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Sauces: Pour the buffalo sauce and BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks right in the crockpot, mixing it with the sauces for a flavorful finish.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy your delicious Buffalo BBQ Chicken!
BBQ Chicken and Veggie Medley
This BBQ Chicken and Veggie Medley is a delightful one-pot meal that packs in flavor and convenience. Juicy chicken thighs are simmered in a tangy BBQ sauce, surrounded by a colorful array of fresh vegetables. The result is a hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.
With just a few simple steps, you can set this dish in your crockpot and let it work its magic. The chicken becomes tender and infused with savory goodness, while the veggies add vibrant textures and nutrients. It’s a fuss-free way to enjoy a satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add to the Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot and pour the BBQ sauce over the top. Add the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, potatoes, and onion around the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Once done, gently shred the chicken if desired and mix with the veggies. Enjoy your BBQ chicken and veggie medley!
BBQ Chicken Tacos
BBQ Chicken Tacos are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy a classic dish. Combining tender, shredded chicken with a smoky BBQ sauce, these tacos are sure to please everyone at the table. The sweet and tangy flavors blend perfectly, making it a great option for casual gatherings or busy weeknights.
What’s great about this recipe is its simplicity. Just toss the ingredients into a crockpot and let it do the work for you. When you’re ready to eat, serve the BBQ chicken in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot.
- Serve: Warm the tortillas and fill them with the BBQ chicken. Top with cheese, tomatoes, green onions, and any additional toppings you like.
Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken doesn’t have to mean firing up the grill or hovering over a hot stove. With these crockpot recipes, you get all the deep, smoky, finger-licking goodness with none of the stress. Perfect for weeknights, game day, or meal prep, these dishes prove that the best flavors often come from the simplest methods. So plug in that slow cooker, let the magic happen, and get ready to enjoy some of the easiest—and most delicious—BBQ chicken you’ve ever made. Dinner just got a whole lot tastier (and easier).
