Introduction
BBQ Pulled Chicken is a classic American dish that is perfect for a summer BBQ party or a quick and easy dinner. This recipe is made with tender and juicy chicken that is slow-cooked in a smoky and tangy BBQ sauce. The result is a delicious and flavorful meat that will make your taste buds dance.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to make BBQ Pulled Chicken for 4 portions:
- 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make BBQ Pulled Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 120°C.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
- Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the skillet and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken and onion mixture to a slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and mix it with the BBQ sauce.
- Serve the BBQ pulled chicken on buns or rolls, topped with coleslaw or your favorite toppings.
Vegetarian/Vegan Variation
This recipe can easily be made vegetarian or vegan by using plant-based chicken substitutes instead of real chicken. You can also use jackfruit or mushrooms as a meat substitute. Simply follow the same recipe but swap out the chicken for your desired substitute.
Gluten-Free Variation
To make this recipe gluten-free, make sure to use a gluten-free BBQ sauce and ketchup. You can also serve the BBQ pulled chicken on gluten-free buns or rolls.
Conclusion
This BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a great option for a quick and delicious dinner or a summer BBQ party. Serve it with coleslaw, potato salad, or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal that everyone will love.
FAQ
What is BBQ Pulled Chicken?
BBQ Pulled Chicken is a dish made with shredded chicken that is cooked slowly in a barbecue sauce.
What ingredients do I need to make BBQ Pulled Chicken?
To make BBQ Pulled Chicken, you need chicken breasts, barbecue sauce, onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. However, the cooking time may be slightly longer as chicken thighs take longer to cook.
Can I make BBQ Pulled Chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make BBQ Pulled Chicken in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze BBQ Pulled Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze BBQ Pulled Chicken. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with BBQ Pulled Chicken?
BBQ Pulled Chicken is usually served on a bun with coleslaw, pickles, and a side of fries or potato salad. You can also serve it on top of a salad or with roasted vegetables.
Can I make my own barbecue sauce?
Yes, you can make your own barbecue sauce. There are many recipes available online or in cookbooks that you can use.
How do I shred the chicken for BBQ Pulled Chicken?
To shred the chicken for BBQ Pulled Chicken, use two forks to pull the chicken apart into small, bite-sized pieces.
How do I store leftover BBQ Pulled Chicken?
Allow the BBQ Pulled Chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How long does it take to cook BBQ Pulled Chicken?
Depending on the cooking method, BBQ Pulled Chicken can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 8 hours to cook. If cooking on the stovetop, it will take about 30 minutes. If cooking in the oven, it will take about 2-3 hours. If cooking in a slow cooker, it will take 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat instead of chicken. Pulled pork is a popular alternative, but you can also use beef or turkey.
