How Long For Pulled Chicken In Slow Cooker

Are you craving tender, juicy pulled chicken? Look no further than your trusty slow cooker! Slow cooking is one of the best methods to achieve melt-in-your-mouth pulled chicken that is bursting with flavor. The slow cooker allows the chicken to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a moist and tender texture.

So, how long should you cook pulled chicken in a slow cooker? The cooking time can vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces and the heat setting of your slow cooker. Generally, it takes about 4-6 hours on low heat setting or 2-3 hours on high heat setting to achieve perfectly pulled chicken.

When cooking pulled chicken in a slow cooker, it’s important to keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Once the pulled chicken is cooked to perfection, you can shred it using two forks or your hands. The chicken should be tender enough to easily fall apart. You can then mix in your favorite barbecue sauce or seasonings to add an extra kick of flavor.

Whether you’re planning a barbecue, hosting a game night, or simply craving a delicious meal, pulled chicken made in a slow cooker is a crowd-pleasing option. So, grab your slow cooker and enjoy the mouthwatering results of perfectly cooked and seasoned pulled chicken!

What is Pulled Chicken in Slow Cooker?

Pulled chicken is a popular dish that involves slow cooking chicken until it becomes tender and easy to shred with a fork. It is typically cooked in a slow cooker or crockpot, which allows the chicken to cook slowly at a low temperature, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat.

How to Make Pulled Chicken in a Slow Cooker

To make pulled chicken in a slow cooker, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Barbecue sauce or your choice of sauce
• Seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder (optional)

Here are the steps to make pulled chicken in a slow cooker:

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired.
2. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the barbecue sauce over it.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. You can do this directly in the slow cooker or transfer the chicken to a separate bowl.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the remaining sauce.
6. Cover the slow cooker again and cook on low heat for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully coated and heated through.
7. Serve the pulled chicken on buns or as desired.

Uses for Pulled Chicken

Pulled chicken is a versatile dish that can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are some ideas:

• Pulled chicken sandwiches or sliders
• Tacos or quesadillas
• Salads or wraps
• Pizza toppings
• Pasta dishes

Once you have made a batch of pulled chicken, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer term storage. This allows you to easily add it to meals throughout the week or whenever you need a quick and flavorful protein.

Slow Cooker Method to Prepare Pulled Chicken

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to prepare tender and juicy pulled chicken, using a slow cooker is the perfect method. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to cook slowly at a low temperature, resulting in a delicious and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
7. Allow the chicken to sit in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
8. Serve the pulled chicken on buns or rolls, and enjoy!

Using the slow cooker method to prepare pulled chicken allows you to have a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. The tender and flavorful chicken can be used in various dishes, such as sandwiches, wraps, tacos, or even added to salads. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your delicious homemade pulled chicken!

Ingredients Required for Pulled Chicken in Slow Cooker

To make delicious pulled chicken in a slow cooker, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Top Rated

Head Country Original BBQ Sauce - No Gluten

Enjoy rich flavors without any preservatives

This Original BBQ Sauce is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, crafted with premium, gluten-free ingredients. Ideal for grilling classics like burgers and ribs, it's a beloved choice among barbecue enthusiasts since 1947.

$60.00 at Amazon.com

Amazon price updated: August 14, 2025 1:47 am

– or 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

2. Seasonings:

– 1 tablespoon of paprika

– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar

– 1 tablespoon of garlic powder

– 1 tablespoon of onion powder

– 1 teaspoon of salt

– 1 teaspoon of black pepper

3. Liquid:

– 1 cup of chicken broth

– or 1 cup of barbecue sauce

– or a combination of both

4. Optional Ingredients:

– 1 onion, sliced

– 1 bell pepper, sliced

– 2 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce

– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

– 1 tablespoon of hot sauce

– 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke

– Additional seasonings of your choice

With these ingredients, you can create a flavorful and tender pulled chicken in your slow cooker. Feel free to adjust the seasonings and add any optional ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Step by Step Guide to Cook Pulled Chicken in Slow Cooker

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to make tender and flavorful pulled chicken, using a slow cooker is the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can have juicy pulled chicken that is great for sandwiches, tacos, salads, and more.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a spice rub.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, coating them evenly.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned. This step helps to seal in the flavors.
4. Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the slow cooker.
5. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
8. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the cooking liquid to moisten it.
9. Let the pulled chicken sit in the slow cooker on the warm setting for an additional 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serving Suggestions:

Pulled chicken can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Make a pulled chicken sandwich by layering the chicken on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw or pickles.
• Use the pulled chicken as a filling for tacos or quesadillas.
• Add the pulled chicken to a salad for a protein-packed meal.
• Serve the pulled chicken alongside some roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.

Now that you have a step-by-step guide to cooking pulled chicken in a slow cooker, you can enjoy this delicious and versatile dish with minimal effort. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to meal prep for the week ahead. Enjoy!

How Long Does it Take to Prepare Pulled Chicken in Slow Cooker?

Pulled chicken made in a slow cooker is a delicious and convenient meal option. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and juicy, making it easy to pull apart and shred.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for pulled chicken in a slow cooker can vary depending on the size and type of chicken pieces used. As a general guideline:

• For boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
• For boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

It’s important to note that slow cookers can vary in temperature, so it’s always a good idea to check the chicken for doneness before serving. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Preparing the Chicken

To prepare pulled chicken in a slow cooker, follow these simple steps:

1. Trim any excess fat from the chicken pieces and season with your desired spices and seasonings.
2. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and add any additional ingredients, such as onions, garlic, or barbecue sauce.
3. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set the cooking time and temperature according to the guidelines mentioned above.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with any remaining cooking liquid or sauce.
6. Allow the chicken to cook on low for an additional 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
7. Serve the pulled chicken on buns, in tacos, or alongside your favorite side dishes.

Pulled chicken made in a slow cooker is a versatile dish that can be used in a variety of recipes, from sandwiches and wraps to salads and casseroles. It’s a crowd-pleasing option for parties, potlucks, and weeknight dinners.

Tips to Make the Best Pulled Chicken in Slow Cooker

Slow cookers are a great tool for making tender and juicy pulled chicken. Whether you’re planning a barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or a potluck, here are some tips to help you make the best pulled chicken in a slow cooker:

1. Choose the Right Chicken:

For pulled chicken, it’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. These cuts of meat are lean and will cook evenly in the slow cooker.

2. Season well:

Before adding the chicken to the slow cooker, season it with your favorite spices and herbs. A combination of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder works well for a classic pulled chicken flavor.

3. Add Liquid:

To keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out, add some liquid to the slow cooker. You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. Aim for about 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid for every pound of chicken.

4. Cook on Low and Slow:

To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s best to cook the chicken on low heat for a longer period of time. Set your slow cooker to low and let the chicken cook for about 6-8 hours. This slow cooking process will ensure that the chicken is perfectly tender and easy to shred.

5. Shred with Ease:

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks or a pair of meat claws. The chicken should be so tender that it easily falls apart.

6. Add BBQ Sauce or Other Flavorings:

If you prefer a saucy pulled chicken, toss the shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce or other flavorings, such as teriyaki sauce or buffalo sauce. This will add an extra layer of flavor and moistness to the pulled chicken.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the best pulled chicken in your slow cooker every time. Enjoy it on sandwiches, in tacos, or as a topping for salads!

Serving Suggestions for Pulled Chicken in Slow Cooker

Once your pulled chicken is tender and full of flavor from being slow-cooked, it’s time to think about the perfect way to serve it. Here are some delicious and creative serving suggestions for your pulled chicken:

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make your pulled chicken dish truly your own.

Questions and answers

How long does it take to cook pulled chicken in a slow cooker?

Pulled chicken in a slow cooker usually takes about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat to cook.

What’s the best temperature to cook pulled chicken in a slow cooker?

The best temperature to cook pulled chicken in a slow cooker is on low heat for tender and juicy meat. However, if you are short on time, you can cook it on high heat for a shorter amount of time.

Can I leave pulled chicken in a slow cooker overnight?

It is not recommended to leave pulled chicken in a slow cooker overnight as it may overcook and become dry. It is best to cook it for the recommended time and then keep it warm until ready to serve.

What can I do if my pulled chicken is dry after cooking it in a slow cooker?

If your pulled chicken turns out dry after cooking it in a slow cooker, you can try adding some barbecue sauce or broth to moisten it. You can also shred the chicken finer to help distribute the moisture more evenly.