Description

A tender and juicy slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken with a smoky chipotle bourbon sauce that is easy to prepare and perfect for casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
1 cup BBQ sauce (thick, smoky style recommended)
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for searing chicken)

Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, chipotle peppers, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Optional: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the prepared chipotle bourbon BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and shreds easily.
Remove chicken breasts and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat with sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Let the pulled chicken warm in the sauce on low for another 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Searing chicken is optional but adds richer flavor and color. Keep the slow cooker lid closed during cooking to retain moisture. Adjust chipotle peppers to control spice level. If sauce is too thick, add water or chicken broth; if too thin, cook uncovered on high to reduce. Sauce can be prepared a day ahead for better flavor melding.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 1 cup (200 g)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 12
Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 20
Fiber: 2
Protein: 35

Keywords: slow cooker, BBQ pulled chicken, chipotle bourbon sauce, easy dinner, pulled chicken recipe, smoky chicken, crockpot chicken