Best Chicken Crockpot Recipe: Tender & Juicy in 3 Hours

May 30, 2025

Close-up of creamy crockpot chicken with crispy topping and green onions.

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you looking for a delicious, stress-free meal that’s perfect for any day? Well, you’re in the right place! Today, I’m sharing my absolute favorite Best Chicken Crockpot Recipe that’s so tender and juicy, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. This recipe is all about quick family dinners that are easy to prepare but packed with flavor. Plus, it’s ready in just 3 hours—perfect for those busy days when you need a 30-minute meal solution!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-off cooking that lets you focus on other things while dinner cooks to perfection.
Perfectly tender and juicy chicken every time, thanks to the crockpot’s magic.
Customizable with your favorite barbecue sauce for a flavor twist.
Goes well with almost any side, from easy pasta recipes to fresh salads.
Ready in just 3 hours on high—faster than many crockpot recipes!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this simple yet flavorful recipe:

3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the easy steps to make this mouthwatering crockpot chicken recipe:

Place the boneless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
Add minced garlic and chopped onion over the chicken.
In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to make this recipe even better:

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—it makes a big difference!
Choose a high-quality barbecue sauce that aligns with your taste preferences.
If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
For a sweeter twist, mix in a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar with the barbecue sauce.

How to Serve

This shredded BBQ chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving ideas:

Serve it on a bun for delicious sandwiches.
Pair it with coleslaw and baked beans for a classic BBQ-themed meal.
Use it as a topping for a fresh Southwest Chicken Salad.
Mix it into easy pasta recipes for a quick weeknight dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparation and storage are a breeze with this recipe:

You can prepare the sauce and chop the onion a day in advance.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze the shredded chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.

Looking for more delicious crockpot recipes? Check out my How to Make Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and How to Make Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken in 3 Hours for more tasty ideas. Don’t forget to explore my How to Make Crock Pot Chicken and Rice recipe for a comforting meal.

There you have it—my go-to Best Chicken Crockpot Recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or need a weeknight dinner idea, this recipe delivers. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!