If you're looking for a quick and easy way to prepare BBQ chicken, a crockpot could be your new best friend. Not only does it take minimal effort to cook a delicious meal, but a slow-cooker also allows for the chicken to cook thoroughly and become exceptionally tender. But how long does it take to cook BBQ chicken in a crockpot on high? Let's find out.
The benefits of cooking BBQ chicken in a crockpot
Firstly, cooking BBQ chicken in a crockpot provides many benefits compared to other cooking methods. For one, it is incredibly convenient since you can just add all the ingredients into the pot and forget about them until your meal is ready. You also save time otherwise spent actively cooking since the slow-cooking method allows you to attend to other matters while leaving the crockpot to do the work. BBQ chicken cooked in a crockpot is typically more tender and the flavor more intense due to the longer cooking time.
Additionally, cooking BBQ chicken in a crockpot is a healthier option since it requires less oil and fat compared to grilling or frying. The slow-cooking method also allows the chicken to retain more of its nutrients and natural juices, making it a more nutritious meal. Furthermore, cooking in a crockpot is a great way to meal prep since you can make a large batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use. This makes it a perfect option for busy individuals or families who want to have a healthy and delicious meal ready in no time.
Choosing the right type of chicken for your crockpot meal
When selecting the chicken for your crockpot recipe, it's essential to consider the cut of the meat. Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the best option for BBQ chicken in a crockpot since it's lean and won't produce too much grease. You can also use chicken thighs as they're more tender, but you may need to skim grease more frequently.
If you're looking for a more flavorful option, consider using bone-in chicken pieces. The bones add extra flavor to the dish, and the meat stays moist and tender. However, you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook than boneless. Additionally, if you're using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the crockpot to ensure even cooking.
Preparing your chicken before putting it in the crockpot
Before cooking, ensure that you trim the excess fat from the chicken breasts to avoid having too greasy a meal. You can also season the chicken with some salt and black pepper for added flavor. Consider pan-searing your chicken breasts first for added texture and color. For pan-searing, heat up some oil over medium-high heat and sear each side for about two to three minutes until browned.
Another important step in preparing your chicken for the crockpot is to make sure it is fully thawed before cooking. This can be done by placing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or by using the defrost setting on your microwave. It is important to never cook frozen chicken in a crockpot as it can lead to uneven cooking and potential food safety issues. Once your chicken is thawed and prepared, you can add it to the crockpot with your desired ingredients and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients needed for a tasty BBQ sauce
A delicious crockpot BBQ chicken recipe requires a tangy and sweet BBQ sauce to complement the meat. Here are the basic ingredients you'll need:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Making your own BBQ sauce from scratch
If you prefer, you can make your own BBQ sauce instead of using a ready-made one. Combine the following ingredients in a mixing bowl:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Adding flavor to your crockpot meal with spices and herbs
While the BBQ sauce is the most crucial ingredient, you can add some extra flavor to your chicken by using herbs and spices. You could add some fresh parsley, oregano, or rosemary to your chicken breasts before cooking. Adding fresh garlic, onion, or ginger also adds another layer of flavor to your meal. Rubbing some chili powder, smoked paprika, or cumin on the chicken will also make a big difference in the taste.
Setting the right temperature and timing for cooking
High heat settings are typically recommended for cooking BBQ chicken in a crockpot as it helps to ensure the meat cooks evenly. Cooking on high heat will take 3 to 4 hours for boneless, skinless chicken breasts and 6 to 7 hours on low heat.
Tips for avoiding overcooking or undercooking your chicken
It's essential to check the temperature of your chicken after a few hours of cooking to ensure it is safe to consume. The temperature of cooked chicken should be 165°F or 75°C. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature. Overcooking can lead to dry and tough chicken, while undercooking can put you at risk of food poisoning.
Serving suggestions and side dishes to complement your BBQ chicken
BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with coleslaw, potato salad, or some corn on the cob. You could also serve your meal with some freshly baked dinner rolls or garlic bread. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can also be great accompaniments.
In conclusion, cooking BBQ chicken in a crockpot on high heat will only take 3 to 4 hours, and the result will be tender and juicy chicken coated in a delicious sauce with a significant flavor. With the right herbs, spices, and sauce, crockpot BBQ chicken is the perfect meal for when you have guests over or for a quiet family dinner night.
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