This sticky sweet crockpot chicken is the perfect combination of tender, juicy meat and a rich, glossy sauce that clings to every bite. Made with just four simple ingredients, it’s an effortless family dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Serve it over fluffy rice for a comforting meal everyone will request again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only 4 simple pantry-friendly ingredients
Perfect for busy weeknights
Kid-approved sweet and savory flavor
Minimal prep with hands-off slow cooking
Budget-friendly and great for meal prep
Delicious served over rice or vegetables
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional garnish)
Directions
Lightly spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray.
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, sweet chili sauce, and soy sauce until fully combined.
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot using two forks and stir it into the sauce so it absorbs all the flavor.
Let it sit for an additional 10 minutes on warm to thicken slightly.
Serve hot over freshly cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
Total time: Approximately 4 hours 5 minutes
Variations
Add heat by stirring in 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or 1 tablespoon sriracha.
For a garlic twist, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the sauce before cooking.
Swap chicken breasts for 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Add vegetables like 1 cup sliced bell peppers or 1 cup pineapple chunks during the last hour of cooking for extra flavor and texture.
Serve it in wraps, sliders, or over quinoa instead of rice for variety.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For freezing, place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but for best and safest results, thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
Use your favorite variety. A smoky or honey-style barbecue sauce pairs especially well with the sweet chili sauce.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for 2 to 3 hours, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How do I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 20 minutes of cooking or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work wonderfully and often turn out even more tender.
Is this recipe very sweet?
It has a balanced sweet and savory flavor. You can reduce the sweet chili sauce slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
What rice pairs best with this dish?
White jasmine rice, basmati rice, or even brown rice all work well.
Can I add vegetables directly to the crockpot?
Yes, add firm vegetables like carrots at the beginning, and softer ones like bell peppers during the last hour.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be tender and easy to shred, and it must reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Conclusion
Sticky sweet crockpot chicken is the ultimate easy dinner solution. With just four ingredients and minimal effort, you get tender, flavorful chicken coated in a rich, glossy sauce that pairs perfectly with rice. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or prepping meals for the week, this simple slow cooker recipe is sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
Tender slow-cooked chicken coated in a rich, glossy sweet and savory sauce made with barbecue sauce, sweet chili sauce, and soy sauce. This easy four-ingredient crockpot chicken is perfect served over fluffy rice for a comforting family dinner.
