1. Can I use frozen chicken in this Crock Pot BBQ Chicken recipe?

Yes, but only if your slow cooker is rated for it. Many models are not recommended for cooking frozen meat due to food safety concerns. Slow-cooking frozen chicken may lead to unsafe temperature exposure for extended periods, which is why thawing it overnight in the fridge is the safer option. For best results, thaw chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking.

2. What’s the best BBQ sauce to use for a high-protein, low-sugar diet?

Look for a sauce with fewer than 5g of sugar per serving and no high-fructose corn syrup. Brands like Primal Kitchen, G Hughes, and Stubbs offer clean-label options. You can also make your own with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices, a popular approach in our protein-focused slow cooker recipes .

3. How can I make this Crock Pot BBQ Chicken recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne powder, or even a few dashes of hot sauce into the sauce mixture before cooking. For bolder heat, stir in diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce during the last hour.

4. Can I double this recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely. This recipe scales well; just make sure your Crock Pot isn’t more than ¾ full to ensure even cooking. Store extra portions in airtight containers or freeze for up to 3 months. It reheats beautifully and works in a variety of meal preps like wraps, bowls, and casseroles.

5. Is this dish keto-friendly or low-carb?

Yes, it can be. As long as your BBQ sauce is low in sugar (or homemade), Crock Pot BBQ Chicken contains very few carbs. Skip the bun and serve it with sautéed greens or roasted cauliflower for a keto-approved meal.

Crock Pot BBQ Chicken: 5-Min Prep & High Protein Win

Name: Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1½ cups BBQ sauce (low-sugar or homemade); 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp black pepper; Optional: red pepper flakes; Optional: chopped parsley or green onions

Description

Juicy, high-protein Crock Pot BBQ Chicken made with lean chicken breast and a tangy homemade-style barbecue sauce. Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1½ cups BBQ sauce (low-sugar or homemade)

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp black pepper

Optional: red pepper flakes

Optional: chopped parsley or green onions

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Instructions

1. Place chicken breasts in Crock Pot.

2. In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire, and spices.

3. Pour the sauce over the chicken evenly.

4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours.

5. Shred chicken with forks and return to pot.

6. Stir to coat and serve hot.

Notes

Use thighs instead of breast for juicier texture.

Add chickpeas in the last 30 minutes for extra protein.

Cool completely before refrigerating.

Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 265
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 85mg