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BBQ Pulled Chicken

BBQ Pulled Chicken

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe combines tender, smoky flavors with a touch of sweetness and spice. Juicy chicken slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, smoky sauce infused with a natural gelling agent creates a mouthwatering dish perfect for sandwiches, salads, tacos, or served over rice. With simple ingredients and versatile cooking methods, it’s an ideal family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds chicken thighs or breasts
  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, finely chopped
  • Optional: 2 slices smoked turkey slices, finely chopped

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons natural tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (pectin, agar, or carrageenan) as per package instructions

Other

  • 1 cup vegetable broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Smoky Ingredients: Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs or breasts. Finely chop the smoked turkey bacon and smoked turkey slices (if using). In a large skillet, sauté the smoked turkey bacon and smoked turkey slices until the bacon is crispy and fragrant to build a smoky flavor base.
  2. Create the BBQ Sauce: In the same skillet, add natural tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes aromatic and thickens slightly. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent according to package instructions to develop the desired BBQ sauce consistency.
  3. Combine and Cook: Place the chicken in a slow cooker or a large pot. Pour the smoky BBQ sauce over the chicken and add the vegetable broth to keep the chicken moist. Cover and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or until the chicken is tender enough to be easily shredded.
  4. Shred and Mix: Remove the chicken and use two forks to shred it finely. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and toss thoroughly in the sauce to ensure every bite is flavorful and juicy.

Notes

  • Opt for chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor; breasts are great for a leaner option.
  • Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices before shredding.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by gradually adding more natural gelling agent as desired.
  • For added smoky complexity, incorporate smoked turkey slices towards the end of cooking.
  • The flavor improves after a day in the refrigerator, making this recipe perfect for meal prep.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: BBQ pulled chicken, slow cooker chicken, smoked chicken, easy chicken recipe, shredded chicken, smoky BBQ sauce

Find it online: https://yummyrecipeszone.com/bbq-pulled-chicken/