I love how this crockpot honey barbecue chicken brings together sweet and savory flavors with almost no effort. The chicken turns out incredibly tender, soaking up a rich mix of barbecue sauce and honey while slowly cooking to perfection. It is one of those comforting meals I like to make when I want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. Crockpot Honey Barbecue Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it is simple, reliable, and packed with flavor. I just add everything to the crockpot and let it do the work for me. The balance between smoky barbecue sauce and sweet honey makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults, and I enjoy how versatile it is for sandwiches, rice bowls, or a classic plate with sides.

Ingredients

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

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Directions

I start by lightly seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. I place the chicken in the bottom of my crockpot in a single layer. In a bowl, I mix the barbecue sauce and honey until smooth, then I pour the mixture evenly over the chicken. I cover the crockpot and cook until the chicken is tender and easy to shred. Once done, I like to shred the chicken directly in the sauce and stir everything together so it stays juicy and flavorful.

Servings And Timing

I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe. I cook it on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Prep time only takes me about 5 minutes, which makes this perfect for busy days.

Variations

I sometimes add a splash of soy sauce for extra depth or a pinch of chili flakes when I want a little heat. If I want a smoky flavor, I use a smoky-style barbecue sauce. I also like serving this chicken whole instead of shredded for a more classic presentation.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a small splash of water or extra barbecue sauce if needed to keep it moist.

Crockpot Honey Barbecue Chicken FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

I often use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, and they work just as well. They stay very juicy and flavorful in the crockpot.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I like making it ahead and storing it in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen after a day, which makes leftovers even better.

Is this recipe very sweet?

I find the sweetness balanced, but if I want it less sweet, I reduce the honey slightly or use a tangier barbecue sauce.

Can I freeze honey barbecue chicken?

I freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What do I serve with crockpot honey barbecue chicken?

I enjoy serving it with rice, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or on sandwich buns for easy sliders.

Conclusion

I keep this crockpot honey barbecue chicken in my regular meal rotation because it is easy, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and big flavor, it is one of those recipes I know I can rely on whenever I need a simple and satisfying meal.

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Crockpot Honey Barbecue Chicken

Crockpot Honey Barbecue Chicken


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  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This crockpot honey barbecue chicken is sweet, smoky, and incredibly tender. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it dinner that’s great for sandwiches, bowls, or classic sides.


Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Place chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce and honey until smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until chicken is very tender.
  6. Shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks and stir it into the sauce to coat evenly.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite sides, in sandwiches, or over rice.

Notes

  • Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
  • Use smoky or hickory-flavored barbecue sauce for a deeper flavor profile.
  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion (1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

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