Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken – Easy, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is the answer. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, this dish delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or casual family dinners, it’s a recipe that everyone will love.
This slow cooker favorite requires only a handful of ingredients, yet it produces restaurant-quality flavor with hardly any effort.
Ingredients
Serves 6
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 4–6 hours (low) or 2–3 hours (high)
- Total time: 4–6 hours
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crockpot
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly grease it with oil.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 3: Add Chicken
- Place chicken breasts into the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 5: Shred or Slice
- Once done, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks, or slice it into chunks.
- Return the chicken to the slow cooker and mix it back into the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve warm on sandwich buns, over rice, with mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on toasted brioche buns with coleslaw for a classic pulled chicken sandwich.
- Pair with cornbread, baked beans, or potato salad for a Southern-style meal.
- Use leftovers for wraps, tacos, or even pizza toppings.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1/6 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 28 grams |
| Total Fat | 6 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 35 grams |
| Sugars | 28 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 780 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Chicken breast provides lean protein for muscle health.
- Barbecue sauce and honey add sweetness but also increase sugar content.
- Cooking in the crockpot keeps chicken moist and tender without excess oil.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chicken
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
- Double the sauce recipe if you like extra for drizzling over sides.
- For a spicier version, add 1–2 teaspoons of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- To make it lighter, swap part of the barbecue sauce for tomato puree.
This Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. With just a few pantry staples and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a meal that’s hearty, delicious, and versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or main courses. Perfect for families, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
