Slow Cooker Shredded Apple BBQ Chicken

Published: September 21, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Shredded Apple BBQ Chicken is super easy to prepare, making it a weeknight hero
The flavor profile is an irresistible blend of sweet and savory that will leave everyone asking for seconds
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
Plus, you can easily adapt it to fit various dietary preferences or add different ingredients based on what you have handy

When I served this dish at a family reunion, my cousin went back for thirds and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on how many guests you’re serving. spicy white chicken chili.
Apple Sauce: Use unsweetened apple sauce for a fresher flavor; avoid overly sweet varieties.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version; smoky flavors complement this dish beautifully.
Fresh Onion: One medium onion adds depth; slice it thinly for better distribution in the slow cooker.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic enhances flavor; use about 3-4 cloves depending on your preference.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings are essential; don’t skimp—season generously to enhance the overall taste.

For the Sauce:

Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash balances sweetness and adds brightness to the BBQ sauce.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a subtle smokiness; it’s a must-have for layering flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients—the chicken, sauces, and spices should be within arm’s reach. Thinly slice the onion and mince garlic cloves to prep them for cooking.

Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour apple sauce and barbecue sauce over them evenly, followed by onions and garlic for added flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs recipe.

Season Generously: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and smoked paprika over everything in the slow cooker. Feel free to channel your inner chef while doing this—it’s part of the fun!

Set It and Forget It!: Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender and easy to shred during this time.

Shred That Chicken!: When ready, remove the chicken from the slow cooker using tongs or forks. Shred it using two forks—this step releases all those fabulous flavors into each piece.

Toss It All Together!: Return shredded chicken back into the pot with juices from cooking. Stir everything well so every bite bursts with flavor before serving. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini recipe.

Prepare yourself—you’re going to love this Slow Cooker Shredded Apple BBQ Chicken! Not only does it offer fantastic taste but also provides an effortless way to impress your family or friends with minimal effort on your part! Enjoy! savory chicken marsala.

You Must Know

Slow Cooker Shredded Apple BBQ Chicken is a game-changer for busy weeknights
The sweet and tangy flavors meld beautifully, making it perfect for sandwiches or tacos
Plus, the aroma wafting through your home will make everyone think you’re a kitchen wizard

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by placing the chicken in the slow cooker, followed by the apple sauce and BBQ sauce. Mix well, cover, and set to low for 6-8 hours. This sequence ensures maximum flavor absorption and tender chicken.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out apple sauce for peach or mango for a tropical twist. You can also add diced onions or jalapeños for extra flavor. Customizing keeps your meals exciting!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, keeping that delicious texture intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To avoid dry chicken, ensure you have enough sauce covering your meat while cooking
Using boneless thighs can enhance tenderness compared to breasts
Always shred while warm for easier handling and better flavor absorption

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of family gatherings where everyone devoured my shredded apple BBQ chicken with glee. creamy butter chicken recipe It’s always a hit!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, frozen chicken can be used; just increase cooking time by 1-2 hours on low.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce complements the apple flavor wonderfully.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully for later enjoyment.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card