Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is the ultimate easy, flavor-packed dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you get tender, juicy shredded chicken smothered in tangy, sweet barbecue sauce. It’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, wraps, or served over rice—simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce
brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
apple cider vinegar
garlic powder
onion powder
black pepper
optional: crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat

directions

Place chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker.

In a bowl, mix Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Shred chicken with two forks directly in the crockpot and stir to coat with the sauce.

Serve hot on buns, over rice, in tacos, or with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 5–6 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total time: 5–6 hours

Variations

Add a splash of Worcestershire or soy sauce for savory depth.
Mix in chopped onions or bell peppers before cooking.
Use honey barbecue or Sweet Baby Ray’s spicy varieties for a twist.
Stir in cooked bacon or cheddar cheese before serving for loaded BBQ sandwiches.
Serve on slider buns for a party-friendly version.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase cook time slightly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is it spicy?
Not unless you add heat—Sweet Baby Ray’s original is sweet and tangy.

Can I use a different BBQ sauce?
Yes, but Sweet Baby Ray’s offers a balanced flavor perfect for slow cooking.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just make sure your crockpot has enough room and adjust cook time as needed.

How do I keep it from getting watery?
Avoid lifting the lid while cooking, and you can remove excess liquid before shredding if desired.

Conclusion

Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is the definition of effortless comfort food—sweet, saucy, and fall-apart tender. Whether you pile it high on a bun, wrap it in tortillas, or spoon it over mashed potatoes, this easy slow-cooker recipe will become a regular favorite in your meal rotation.