Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken with Tangy Cabbage Slaw Recipe

Enjoy the ultimate BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches with tangy cabbage slaw! Perfectly seasoned slow-cooked chicken paired with a crunchy slaw for a delicious meal.

Effortless Meal Prep: This recipe leverages the convenience of a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days. You can set it and forget it, allowing the chicken to cook to tender perfection while you go about your day. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs all the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce, ensuring a delicious and juicy result every time.

Flavorful and Versatile: The tangy cabbage slaw adds a refreshing crunch and zesty contrast to the savory pulled chicken, elevating your sandwiches. Additionally, this versatile dish can be served in various ways—on buns, in tacos, or even over a salad, making it a great go-to for any meal.

15 FAQs About Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken with Tangy Cabbage Slaw

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will stay juicy during slow cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store the BBQ pulled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
How can I make this recipe spicier? Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce mixture for extra heat.
Can I use a different type of vinegar for the slaw? Yes, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even rice vinegar can be used based on your preference.
Is there a non-dairy substitute for the mayo in the slaw? Yes, you can use vegan mayonnaise or a non-dairy dressing alternative.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage for the slaw? Absolutely, pre-shredded cabbage or a coleslaw mix will save time and work well.
How can I keep the slaw crunchy if preparing in advance? Keep the cabbage mixture separate and mix with the dressing just before serving to maintain its crunch.
Can I use this pulled chicken in other dishes? Yes, it’s versatile! Use it in tacos, on top of baked potatoes, in wraps, or as a pizza topping.
What’s the best way to reheat the pulled chicken? Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I use a different type of bun for the sandwiches? Yes, you can use any type of bun or roll, like brioche, ciabatta, or even whole grain.
Is it necessary to soak the cabbage and onion? Soaking helps soften the cabbage and pickle the onion, enhancing the flavors, but you can skip if preferred.
How can I make the sauce thicker? Simmer the sauce uncovered for the last hour to thicken it, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
What can I serve with these sandwiches? They pair well with fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a green salad.
Can I add other vegetables to the slaw? Yes, shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even radishes can be added for extra color and crunch.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the slow cooker? Cooking on low heat and ensuring there’s enough liquid in the pot will help keep the chicken moist.

Make it

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken with Tangy Cabbage Slaw

Combining rich BBQ pulled chicken with tangy cabbage slaw creates an unforgettable sandwich experience. This recipe is perfect for busy days or gatherings, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

For the BBQ Pulled Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tangy Cabbage Slaw:

2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
4 cups hot water
Pinch of salt
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup mayonnaise or ranch dressing (based on preference)
Burger buns, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken:

Place the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.

Make the BBQ Sauce Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, chicken broth or water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Cook the Chicken:

Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Shred the Chicken:

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the sauce in the slow cooker.

2. Prepare the Tangy Cabbage Slaw:

Soak the Cabbage:

Place the sliced cabbage in a large bowl and cover with 4 cups of hot water and a pinch of salt.
Let it soak for 30 minutes to soften.

Pickle the Onion:

In a separate bowl, add the thinly sliced red onion and pour 1 cup of vinegar over it.
Let it soak for at least 30 minutes to pickle and mellow the sharpness.

Combine and Mix:

After soaking, drain the water from the cabbage and the vinegar from the onion.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cabbage and pickled onion.
Add the ketchup and either mayonnaise or ranch dressing.
Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and coated.

Chill Until Serving:

Keep the cabbage mixture in the refrigerator until ready to use.

3. Assemble the Sandwiches:

Prepare the Buns:

Toast your burger buns if desired.

Build the Sandwich:

Place a generous amount of BBQ pulled chicken on the bottom bun.
Top with a scoop of the tangy cabbage slaw.
Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.

Enjoy:

Serve these delicious sandwiches with a side of your choice, like fries or a simple salad.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 980mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 15g
Protein: 30g

Additional Notes

Make Ahead: The BBQ pulled chicken can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.
Versatile Uses: This BBQ pulled chicken can be used in various dishes beyond sandwiches. Try it in tacos, on top of baked potatoes, or as a topping for pizzas.
Customize the Slaw: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of chopped cilantro to the slaw for extra color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Serve these sandwiches with classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Spicy Variation: If you prefer a bit of heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce mixture.

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