14 Delicious BBQ Chicken Crockpot Recipes for Easy Meal Prep – When it comes to effortless and flavorful meals, nothing beats the convenience of the Crockpot. BBQ chicken, with its smoky, tangy flavor, is always a crowd-pleaser and makes the perfect meal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead. The best part? You can set it and forget it! Simply throw the ingredients in, let the slow cooker do its magic, and return to tender, juicy BBQ chicken ready to serve.
From classic BBQ chicken to more creative variations that incorporate a variety of flavors and spices, these 14 recipes will take your meal prep game to the next level. Whether you’re making BBQ chicken sandwiches, tacos, wraps, or serving it over rice or a salad, these recipes will become your go-to for an easy, satisfying meal. With minimal prep and the perfect blend of ingredients, these BBQ chicken Crockpot recipes promise to make your meal planning stress-free and delicious.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken is the perfect dish for those who crave a balance of flavors. This recipe combines the rich sweetness of barbecue sauce with just the right amount of heat, making it a real crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s super easy to make in a crockpot, allowing you to set it and forget it while you handle everything else.
The tender chicken absorbs all the flavors as it cooks slowly, resulting in juicy, mouthwatering meat that pairs beautifully with sides like corn and coleslaw. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply want a comforting family meal, this dish hits the spot every time.
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken is a delicious and simple dish that packs a punch of flavor. The sweetness of the barbecue sauce combined with the smoky heat from chipotle peppers creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This recipe is a breeze to prepare in a crockpot, making it perfect for busy days. Just toss the ingredients in, set your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day. You’ll love the tender, juicy chicken that falls off the bone!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup smoky chipotle barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Add to Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot and drizzle with olive oil. Pour the smoky chipotle barbecue sauce over the chicken, coating it evenly.
- 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: Shred the chicken if desired, and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Creamy Ranch BBQ Chicken
Creamy Ranch BBQ Chicken is the perfect meal for busy days when you want something quick and delicious. This dish combines the tangy flavor of ranch dressing with the sweetness of BBQ sauce, creating a rich and hearty taste that everyone will love. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
This recipe is not only effortless but also versatile. You can serve it over rice, in a sandwich, or alongside your favorite veggies. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this creamy chicken dish is sure to please your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the Sauces: Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly on top.
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese until smooth. Spoon it over the chicken and sauce mixture.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Finish: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover until melted. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Sticky Teriyaki BBQ Chicken
Sticky Teriyaki BBQ Chicken is a delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in the crockpot, soaking up all the delicious teriyaki sauce. This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring minimal prep time so you can set it and forget it!
The teriyaki sauce adds a rich glaze, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving this dish for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Steamed vegetables, for serving
Instructions
- Combine teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in the crockpot.
- Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve over cooked rice and top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Zesty Lemon BBQ Chicken
Get ready for a taste explosion with this Zesty Lemon BBQ Chicken! This dish combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the sweet, smoky flavor of barbecue sauce, creating a perfect balance that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend gatherings.
Just toss the chicken in the slow cooker, add your ingredients, and let it do the work. The result? Tender, juicy chicken that bursts with flavor. Serve it alongside rice, salad, or on a bun for a delightful meal that feels fancy but is totally effortless!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- 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 in the sauce or serve whole. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken
Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken simmered in a rich honey-garlic sauce, every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work!
This dish pairs perfectly with rice or steamed veggies for a complete meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting and delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, garlic, Dijon mustard, ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the sauce. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken.
- Serve: Shred the chicken if desired, then serve over rice or with your favorite sides. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Tacos
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Tacos are a fun and tasty way to enjoy the classic flavors of buffalo chicken in a new format. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and tender chicken, wrapped up in soft tortillas, creates a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
This recipe is simple to make, especially with the help of a crockpot, allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce for hours. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that can be easily shredded and served with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the buffalo sauce and BBQ sauce over the top. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot.
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the buffalo BBQ chicken, and top with avocado, cilantro, and onions.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful tacos!
BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Skewers are a delightful combination of tender chicken and sweet, juicy pineapple, all glazed with a tangy barbecue sauce. This recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinners. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly balances the savory chicken, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
With minimal prep time, you can have these skewers ready to grill in no time. Just marinate the chicken, thread the pieces onto skewers with pineapple cubes, and let the grill do the work. They’re great served alongside a simple salad or wrapped in tortillas for a fun twist!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken cubes with olive oil, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple chunks onto the skewers, alternating between the two.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove skewers from the grill and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your BBQ chicken and pineapple skewers hot!
Crockpot BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Crockpot BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a tasty and fun way to enjoy a lighter meal. The tender chicken, infused with rich barbecue flavors, pairs perfectly with crisp lettuce leaves, making for a satisfying wrap that’s easy to assemble. Perfect for any gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is both simple and delicious!
These wraps are all about fresh ingredients and bold tastes. With the crockpot doing most of the work, you’ll have juicy chicken ready to go whenever you need it. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 head of butter lettuce or Romaine lettuce
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Your choice of dipping sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Pour the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Chicken: Once done, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce for even flavor distribution.
- Assemble the Wraps: Take the lettuce leaves and fill them with shredded barbecue chicken. Top with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro.
- Serve: Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce on the side!
BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fun and delicious twist on your traditional pizza night! This recipe brings together tender, slow-cooked chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and your favorite toppings onto a crispy crust. The combination of smoky flavors and gooey cheese makes it a hit for both kids and adults alike.
Plus, it’s super easy to make. Just throw your chicken in the crockpot with BBQ sauce, let it cook, and assemble your pizza. In no time, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a crockpot, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until heated through.
- Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust instructions.
- Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the pizza crust.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and red onion slices.
- Bake in the oven until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly, about 12-15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with cilantro before slicing and serving.
Mediterranean BBQ Chicken
This Mediterranean BBQ Chicken dish brings a delightful twist to your traditional crockpot meals. With flavors inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, it’s a perfect mix of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it cooks slowly, allowing the spices and marinades to infuse deeply.
Simple to prepare, this recipe requires minimal effort, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Just toss the ingredients in the crockpot, and let it do the work while you go about your day!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the crockpot and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean BBQ Chicken with a side of couscous or a fresh salad!
BBQ Chicken Sliders
BBQ chicken sliders bring together tender, shredded chicken and rich barbecue sauce, all nestled between soft slider buns. This meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend gathering. They’re sweet, tangy, and incredibly easy to make, making them a hit with everyone.
These sliders are not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work. The result is juicy chicken that pairs wonderfully with crunchy coleslaw and your favorite toppings. Perfect for a crowd or just a family dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Serve the BBQ chicken on slider buns and top with coleslaw if desired. Enjoy!
Herb-Infused BBQ Chicken
This Herb-Infused BBQ Chicken recipe is a fantastic dish that combines juicy chicken with aromatic herbs and a delicious barbecue sauce. The flavors blend beautifully, giving you that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory in every bite. It’s a simple and fuss-free recipe that you can throw together in your crockpot, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
The tender chicken absorbs all the deliciousness as it cooks low and slow, leaving you with a meal that’s both effortless and mouthwatering. Serve it with fresh bread or a side of vegetables for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce with olive oil, oregano, and thyme.
- Combine in the Crockpot: Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the herb-infused BBQ sauce over the top, making sure it’s well coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Serve: Once done, shred the chicken or serve it whole with extra sauce on the side. Enjoy!
Asian BBQ Chicken Bowls
This Asian BBQ Chicken Bowl recipe brings a delightful blend of flavors to your table, combining tender chicken with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. Perfectly matched with fresh vegetables and fluffy rice, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Made in a crockpot, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. Just set it and forget it while the flavors meld deliciously. You’ll love how the juicy chicken pairs with the crunchy veggies and soft rice, creating a colorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup Asian BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (mixed colors)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber slices
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a crockpot, place the chicken thighs and pour the Asian BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil over them. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot.
- Assemble the Bowls: Serve the chicken over cooked jasmine rice. Top with chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh cilantro over the bowls. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
These 14 Delicious BBQ Chicken Crockpot Recipes for Easy Meal Prep are sure to simplify your week and bring the flavor! With minimal effort, you can enjoy a variety of mouthwatering BBQ chicken dishes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals in advance, these recipes offer something for everyone. So, fire up your Crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in some seriously tasty BBQ chicken that will make mealtime a breeze!