This Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe is a simple and delicious solution for any weeknight meal, picnic, or casual get-together. The chicken is flavored with a homemade barbecue sauce that is both sweet and tangy, and then cooked to perfection in the oven. After it's cooked, the tender chicken is easily shredded and ready to be served on your favorite bun. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to delight everyone at your table.
The ingredients for this recipe are mainly pantry staples, with spices like chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and dry mustard. If you don't have these in your home, they are easily found in the spice aisle of your local supermarket. Apple cider vinegar, a key ingredient that provides a tangy kick to the barbecue sauce, is typically located in the vinegar section. Lastly, dark brown sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce, can be found in the baking aisle.
Ingredients for Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken
Chicken breast: This is the main protein in this recipe. It is preferred due to its lean nature and it absorbs the flavor of the BBQ sauce perfectly.
Kosher salt: This enhances the flavors of the dish. It's less processed and has larger grains compared to table salt.
Ground black pepper: Adds a nice kick and depth to the flavor profile.
Dark brown sugar: Adds sweetness to the BBQ sauce and helps in caramelization.
Chili powder: This gives the BBQ sauce a hint of spiciness.
Garlic powder: Helps in flavoring the chicken.
Onion powder: This also helps in flavoring the chicken.
Dry mustard: Adds a tangy flavor to the BBQ sauce.
Ketchup: This is the base of the BBQ sauce.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds tanginess to the BBQ sauce.
Worcestershire sauce: Gives a savory and sweet taste to the BBQ sauce.
One reader, Alphonso Boettcher says:
This easy BBQ pulled chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and it's so simple to make. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, and the sauce is just the right balance of sweet and tangy. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and a go-to for any gathering.
Techniques Required for Making Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken
How to prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts diagonally about ¼ inch deep in an x shape to allow the BBQ sauce to flavor more of the chicken.
How to make the BBQ sauce: In a large bowl, mix together the ketchup, dark brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
How to shred the chicken: Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken into small pieces.
How to thicken the sauce: If the sauce didn't cook down enough, transfer it to a saucepan and cook on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until thickened.
How To Make Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken
Tender chicken breasts in delicious homemade barbecue sauce, this BBQ pulled chicken is a fun twist to the classic chicken sandwich during summer parties.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2lbschicken breastboneless skinless
- ½tspkosher salt
- ¼coarseground black pepper
- ¼cupdark brown sugar
- 2tspchili powder
- 1tspgarlic powder
- 1tsponion powder
- ½tspdry mustard
- 1½cupsketchup
- 2tbspapple cider vinegar
- 2tspWorcestershire sauce
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Cut diagonally into the chicken breasts about ¼ inch deep in an x shape to allow the bbq sauce to flavor more of the chicken.
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Add all the ingredients together in a large bowl and toss well together until mixed.
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Add the chicken to a sheet pan, then pour the sauce over the chicken breasts.
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Cook for 25 to 30 minutes or until caramelized, browned, and cooked through.
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Shred the chicken with the forks and serve in your favorite bun, spooning the sauce over the chicken.
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If the sauce didn’t cook down enough, add the sauce to a saucepan and cook on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Nutrition
- Calories: 352.64kcal
- Fat: 14.24g
- Saturated Fat: 4.06g
- Trans Fat: 0.16g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.85g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.08g
- Carbohydrates: 23.98g
- Fiber: 0.62g
- Sugar: 18.95g
- Protein: 32.45g
- Cholesterol: 96.77mg
- Sodium: 686.54mg
- Calcium: 38.45mg
- Potassium: 557.22mg
- Iron: 1.70mg
- Vitamin A: 65.34µg
- Vitamin C: 2.83mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Making Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken
When shredding the chicken, it's best to do so while it's still warm. This makes the process easier and the meat will shred more evenly. Also, using two forks, pull in opposite directions to create long, thin shreds. This will give your pulled chicken a better texture and it will absorb the bbq sauce more effectively.
Time-Saving Tips for Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to allow the flavors to develop, saving time on the day of cooking.
Instant pot: Use an instant pot to cook the chicken in a fraction of the time, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Store-bought sauce: Opt for a quality store-bought barbecue sauce to save time on preparing the sauce from scratch.
Slow cooker: Utilize a slow cooker to cook the chicken while you attend to other tasks, making it a convenient cooking method.
Shredding shortcuts: Use a stand mixer to quickly shred the cooked chicken, saving time and effort compared to shredding by hand.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe
chicken breast - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that works well for pulled dishes and will provide a rich and succulent texture to the dish.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey will add a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the dish, while also helping to caramelize and glaze the chicken.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a base for the sauce, providing a rich and smooth texture while allowing you to adjust the sweetness and seasoning to your preference.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar will provide a similar level of acidity and tanginess to the dish, balancing the flavors without overpowering the other ingredients.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add depth of flavor and a savory umami richness to the dish, complementing the other seasonings and enhancing the overall taste.
Best Way to Present Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken
Elevate the plating: Arrange the shredded bbq pulled chicken in a neat and appealing manner on the plate, ensuring that the sauce is evenly distributed and glistens under the light.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley or chives over the pulled chicken to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Pair with artisanal buns: Serve the succulent pulled chicken alongside freshly toasted brioche buns or homemade ciabatta for a sophisticated and indulgent touch.
Accompany with a side of slaw: Present a small portion of vibrant cabbage slaw or apple coleslaw on the plate to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pulled chicken.
Incorporate a drizzle of sauce: Use a squeeze bottle to delicately drizzle a swirl of the homemade bbq sauce around the edge of the plate, adding a professional touch to the presentation.
Add a touch of microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the pulled chicken to introduce a subtle hint of earthy flavor and a visually appealing element to the dish.
Serve on elegant dinnerware: Plate the bbq pulled chicken on fine china or handcrafted pottery to elevate the dining experience and create a sense of luxury for the guests.
Essential Tools for Making Pulled Chicken
- Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile, multipurpose knife for slicing, dicing, and chopping.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining and mixing ingredients.
- Sheet pan: A shallow pan with a raised edge, suitable for roasting or baking.
- Forks: Used for shredding the cooked chicken.
- Saucepan: For cooking and reducing the BBQ sauce, if needed.
Storing and Freezing Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken
Let the pulled chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or ziplock bag. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to soggy or spoiled chicken.
Store the cooled pulled chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep it in the coldest part of your fridge, typically the back of the bottom shelf.
If you want to freeze the pulled chicken for later use, portion it into individual serving sizes or family-sized portions in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags. This will allow you to thaw only what you need without having to defrost the entire batch.
When freezing, remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn. You can use a straw to suck out the excess air from a ziplock bag before sealing it.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents before placing it in the freezer. Pulled chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen pulled chicken, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
Reheat the thawed pulled chicken in a saucepan or microwave until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Add a splash of water, chicken broth, or barbecue sauce to help maintain moisture during reheating.
If you have leftover buns or rolls, you can freeze them separately for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat them in the oven or toaster before serving with the reheated pulled chicken.
How To Reheat Leftover BBQ Pulled Chicken
Reheat the pulled chicken in a slow cooker on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. This method allows the flavors to meld together and keeps the chicken moist and tender.
Place the leftover pulled chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the edges slightly.
For a quick and easy method, reheat the pulled chicken in a microwave-safe container, covered with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the meat.
If you have a sous vide machine, place the leftover pulled chicken in a vacuum-sealed bag and reheat it in a water bath at 140°F (60°C) for about an hour. This method ensures even heating and maintains the original texture of the chicken.
For a crispy texture, reheat the pulled chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of barbecue sauce or water to the pan to prevent the chicken from drying out. Stir frequently until the chicken is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
Interesting Fact About BBQ Pulled Chicken
The easy BBQ pulled chicken recipe is a delicious and convenient dish to prepare. It's a great option for a quick and flavorful meal.
Is This Pulled Chicken Recipe Budget-Friendly?
The cost-effectiveness of this BBQ pulled chicken recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the recipe yields a substantial amount of food. The use of chicken breast, a relatively inexpensive cut of meat, and pantry staples like ketchup and spices make it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 9/10 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is BBQ Pulled Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?
This BBQ pulled chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:
- Chicken breast is a lean protein source, low in fat and high in essential amino acids
- The recipe uses mostly spices and seasonings to flavor the dish, rather than relying heavily on added fats or oils
However, there are some less healthy components:
- The sauce contains a significant amount of added sugar from the brown sugar and ketchup
- Ketchup is also high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in excess
- The recipe lacks any vegetables or fiber-rich ingredients to balance out the meal
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar by half to decrease the overall sugar content
- Use a low-sugar or no-added-sugar ketchup to further cut down on excess sweeteners
- Incorporate some vegetables into the dish, such as sautéed onions, bell peppers, or carrots, to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Serve the pulled chicken on a whole grain bun or over a bed of leafy greens to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
- Experiment with using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to maintain sweetness while reducing calorie and carbohydrate content
Editor's Opinion on This Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe
This easy BBQ pulled chicken recipe is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. The seasoning blend creates a perfect balance, while the slow cooking process ensures tender, juicy chicken. The addition of dark brown sugar adds a rich depth of flavor, complemented by the tangy notes from the apple cider vinegar and ketchup. The final touch of shredding the chicken and serving it in a bun allows for a comforting and satisfying meal. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at gatherings or as a quick weeknight dinner.
Why trust this Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipe:
This easy BBQ pulled chicken recipe promises a mouthwatering blend of savory and sweet flavors, making it an irresistible choice for any meal. With a perfect balance of kosher salt, coarse ground black pepper, and a touch of dark brown sugar, this recipe guarantees a delectable taste experience. The addition of chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder elevates the dish to new heights, while the use of apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce adds depth and complexity. Trust in this recipe for a delightful culinary journey that will surely impress your taste buds.
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