Want to enjoy a barbecue flavor that’s perfect for a fun, family dinner during the summer? “Slow-Simmered Smokehouse Bliss” is a must-try at home. This is a super easy crockpot BBQ chicken that’s easy to tear apart. All the instructions are explained in simple terms.
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Slow-Simmered Smokehouse Bliss : Crockpot BBQ Chicken
BBQ chicken holds a special place when it comes to comfort food in America, as it’s a great summer staple, from cookouts to family dinners.
Its smoky, tangy, slightly sweet flavor profile never goes out of style, but if you can enjoy bold barbecue flavor without lighting a grill or standing over a stove, this crockpot BBQ chicken recipe is simply amazing.
Using a slow cooker, you can easily make tender, juicy, bursting chicken, tossed in rich, barbecue sauce, perfect for sandwiches, rice bowls, tacos, salads, and a plastic BBQ plate.
This crockpot BBQ chicken is a staple in American homes, perfect for busy days, meal preps, and anyone who wants maximum flavor in just a few minutes.
This article covers everything from choosing the right ingredients to a great serving idea, storage tips, and finally, answers to any questions you might have, so you can make a classic slow-simmered smokehouse bliss at home.
Why we love this Crockpot BBQ Chicken:
- No grilling required
- Delivers superior, tender chicken every time
- It’s budget-friendly and all-easy ingredients
- Ideal for parties, meal-prep, and family dinners
- Set it and forget it, perfect for busy days
- Versatile enough to be used in a variety of meals
All the ingredients needed to make Slow-Simmered Smokehouse Bliss:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce, smoky or sweet, as desired
- 2 1/2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
All the necessary spices:
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2-1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 1/4 tsp black pepper
Ingredients for Flavor Booster:
- 1 to 2 tsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp liquid smoke – optional but more BBQ authentic
Best Chicken for Crockpot BBQ Chicken:
- Chicken Thighs
- Rich flavor, juicy, very difficult to overcook
For Chicken Breast:
- Mild, lean, great for shredding
- Ultra moist chicken for best results, use thighs
- Use breast for lean protein.
Slow Simmered Smokehouse Bliss, How to Make, Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a crockpot with non-stick spray or a little oil to prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Seasoning the Chicken
- First, place the chicken directly in the crockpot and sprinkle with the following ingredients:
- Black pepper
- Smoked paprika
- A little ground
- Chili powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Lightly dust the chicken with the seasoning, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
3. Adding the Aromatics
Sprinkle the finely chopped garlic and chopped onion over the chicken and gradually add the sauce, stirring to create a rich flavor.
4. Mixing the BBQ Sauce
- Use a bowl and combine:
- Chicken broth
- BBQ sauce
- Liquid smoke – if desired
- Apple cider vinegar
- Brown sugar or honey
- Keep whisking until smooth.
5. Pour and Cover
Slowly pour the prepared sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat all the pieces thoroughly, then cover.
6. Simmering:
- To cook
- Slow: 6 to 7 hours
- or
- High: 3 to 4 hours
- Your chicken is ready when it shreds easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, 74°C.
7. Shredding the Chicken
- After cooking, remove the chicken and use two forks to shred it finely.
- Return it to the crockpot and add it to the sauce.
- Keep warm for 12 to 15 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce.
8. Thickening – Optional
- For those who prefer a thicker BBQ chicken:
- Remove the lid and continue cooking on high for 22 to 30 minutes.
- Or,
- put the sauce in a saucepan and cook it on low heat for a while.
How to serve Slow Simmered Smokehouse Bliss or Crockpot BBQ Chicken:
- This recipe is extremely versatile, some popular ideas for serving it American-style include:
- Classic – Alternative
- With cornbread and coleslaw
- Serve over mashed potatoes
- BBQ chicken sandwich on a toasted brioche bun
For a healthy and modern version:
- Over quinoa or brown rice
- Over baked sweet potatoes
- In a lettuce wrap
Serve for parties and game day:
- With BBQ chicken nachos
- BBQ chicken sliders
- Stuffed in a quesadilla or tacos
A few pro tips for the best flavor:
- Don’t skip the smoked paprika as it retains that grill flavor
- Use a high-quality BBQ sauce you already love
- Shred the chicken inside the crockpot to keep it moist.
- Don’t open the lid too often – this causes heat loss and longer cooking time.
Storage, Make-Ahead, and Meal-Prep Tips:
Refrigeration
Airtel containers can be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days.
Freezing: Chilled BBQ chicken should be placed in a freezer bag and refrigerate.
It lasts for up to three months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop – Reheat over low heat.
- Microwave – Heat in a small saucepan or pan.
Nutrition per serving:
- Protein – 30-32g
- Fat: 6-10g
- Calories: 255-320
- Carbs: Depends on the BBQ sauce used.
- If you want a lighter version, use a BBQ sauce with less sugar.
FAQ
Answers to questions about Slow Simmered Smokehouse Bliss to help you avoid mistakes and make the perfect homemade crockpot BBQ chicken.
Q. Can BBQ sauce burn in a slow cooker?
No! Because the crockpot cooks at a very low temperature, the sauce remains rich and smooth.
Q. What is the best BBQ sauce for crockpot chicken? Popular ones in the US include:
Honey BBQ
Kansas City Style
Smoky and Sweet
Q. Can I use frozen chicken in a crockpot?
Yes! But it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and food safety. If using frozen, just cook on low and allow for a longer cooking time.
Q. How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Use plenty of heat,
Don’t overcook
Shred only when thoroughly cooked.
Q. Can I cook in a crockpot overnight?
Yes! Cook on low heat and use the warm setting in the morning. This is perfect for busy days.
Q. Is crockpot BBQ chicken healthy?
Absolutely! When you:
Use low-sugar BBQ sauce
Serve with whole grains or vegetables
Use chicken breast.
Q. Can I spice up a crockpot recipe?
Absolutely! Add these ingredients to make it spicy:
Hot sauce
Chipotle chili powder
Cayenne pepper
Final Thoughts
Slow-Simmered Smokehouse Bliss is simply amazing, and this Crockpot BBQ Chicken proves that smoky, bold barbecue flavor is perfect for enjoying without the need for a grill or a lot of time in the kitchen, with simple steps, easy ingredients, and countless serving options.
It’s a perfect and beloved slow cooker meal for most American families.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, preparing lunch, or craving comfort food, this dish delivers excellent results every time, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy days. So, make this recipe this weekend or whenever you’re craving a meal.