Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken (Easy Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken)

Introduction

Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is a simple, flavor-packed dinner that delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in rich, smoky-sweet barbecue sauce—all with minimal effort. Using the slow cooker means the chicken cooks low and slow, absorbing every bit of bold BBQ flavor while staying moist and fall-apart tender.

What makes this recipe a standout is the sauce. Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce is known for its thick texture and perfectly balanced sweetness and tang. When paired with slow-cooked chicken, it creates a crave-worthy meal that works for sandwiches, bowls, wraps, or a classic plate with sides.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game day spreads, family gatherings, or meal prep. It requires just a handful of ingredients, no browning, and almost no hands-on time. The result is versatile BBQ chicken you can shred or serve whole, making it one of those dependable recipes you’ll come back to again and again.

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing slow cooker dinner with big flavor, Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken belongs at the top of your list.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

1 ½ cups Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce

½ cup chicken broth or water

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: sliced onions for the bottom of the crockpot

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot

Lightly spray the crockpot with nonstick spray. If using onions, spread them evenly across the bottom.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry. Season lightly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Liquid

Place the chicken into the crockpot. Pour in chicken broth, then cover the chicken evenly with Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Shred or Serve

Remove the chicken and shred with two forks if desired. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to coat in sauce. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Honey BBQ Chicken: Stir in 2 tablespoons honey.

BBQ Chicken Thighs: Use thighs for extra juiciness.

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: Serve shredded on toasted buns.

Low-Sugar Version: Use a reduced-sugar BBQ sauce.

Cooking Notes

Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts shred beautifully.

Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep heat steady.

Sauce thickens as it rests—stir before serving.

For caramelized edges, broil shredded chicken briefly after cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken on hamburger buns, over rice, in tacos, or alongside classic sides like coleslaw, corn, mac and cheese, or baked beans. It’s also great for meal prep bowls.

Tips

Spray the crockpot for easier cleanup.

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Double the recipe for parties or freezing.

Store leftovers in sauce to keep chicken moist.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

6–7 hours (LOW)

Total Time

6 hours 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 430

Protein: 35g

Sodium: 780mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
For best results and safety, thaw chicken before cooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

Can I freeze BBQ chicken?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Do I have to shred the chicken?
No, you can serve it whole or sliced if preferred.

Conclusion

Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is an easy, dependable slow cooker recipe that delivers tender chicken and bold BBQ flavor with almost no effort. Whether you shred it for sandwiches or serve it with classic sides, this saucy, comforting dish is perfect for busy days, gatherings, and meal prep. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a regular favorite in your kitchen. 🍗🔥

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