Are you looking for a quick and easy dinner option that bursts with flavor? Look no further than Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken! This delightful dish features juicy, tender chicken slathered in the iconic Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that your entire family will adore. The best part? You can prep it in just a few minutes and let your slow cooker do the rest.
Now, here’s a fun fact: Sweet Baby Ray’s began as a backyard barbecue sauce recipe created by a Chicago-based family and has become one of America’s favorite sauces! Its sweetness and smoky notes blend perfectly with chicken, transforming a simple weeknight meal into something truly special. If you love easy-to-make dishes as much as we do, you might also enjoy our One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken. Both recipes prioritize simplicity while delivering scrumptious flavors. So, grab that crockpot and get ready to taste a dish that is both comforting and satisfying—your tastebuds will thank you!
What is Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken?
You’ve probably heard of Sweet Baby Ray’s, the sauce that makes taste buds dance with joy. But what’s the deal with “Crockpot Chicken”? Is it a dish fit for kings or just an easy weeknight meal? Well, picture this: boneless chicken breasts cooked in a pool of sweet, tangy barbecue sauce until they melt in your mouth. “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish is the ideal ambassador for that classic saying! Whether you’re looking to impress your family or just want to treat yourself after a long day, Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is your go-to recipe. So why wait? Dive in and try making it today!
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken checks all the boxes for a tasty family meal. First, the succulent chicken drenched in Sweet Baby Ray’s sauce creates a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing. Picture juicy bites coated with a perfect blend of sweetness and tang—yum! Second, making this dish at home is a huge money-saver compared to dining out, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors without breaking the bank. Lastly, the dish is simple and versatile; feel free to dress it up with toppings like sliced green onions, shredded cheese, or toasted sesame seeds.
If you love this BBQ chicken, you might also appreciate our hearty BBQ Beef Sliders, another family favorite that packs a flavorful punch. So grab those chicken breasts and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
Quick Overview
Making Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is as easy as pie! In just about 10 minutes of preparation time, you’ll have everything prepped and ready for your slow cooker. Simply combine chicken with the sauce, set it, and let your crockpot work its magic. You’ll be rewarded with tender, juicy chicken that practically falls apart when it’s ready. It’s truly a comforting dish that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients for Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Make sure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Season: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken breasts, rubbing it in to ensure even coverage.
- Add to Crockpot: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour on the Sauce: Drizzle the Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated. If you’d like a bit more moisture, add the chicken broth to the bottom of the pot.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-7 hours, or high for about 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easy to shred.
- Serve: Once done, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, mixing it well with the remaining sauce. Serve warm over rice, in burgers, or simply on its own!
What to Serve Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken With
To elevate your Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken meal, consider pairing it with fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious barbecue sauce. A fresh side salad or steamed vegetables can provide a crisp contrast to the richness of the chicken. For an even more filling meal, serve it on toasted burger buns for BBQ chicken sandwiches, accompanied by some classic coleslaw on the side.
Top Tips for Perfecting Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
- Chicken Alternatives: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, feel free to use thighs for extra flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for different cuts of chicken.
- Enhance the Flavor: Experiment by adding other spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for a kick. Alternatively, toss in sliced onions or peppers with the chicken for added texture and taste.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your slow cooker, as some models run hotter than others. Cooking just until the chicken is tender and shreddable will keep it moist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (although we doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. A splash of extra barbecue sauce can help revive the flavors and moisture, making it as good as new!
Now that you know everything about Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken, it’s time to give it a try! You’ll impress your family with minimal effort while enjoying a delightful and flavorful dish that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts and make sure they are uniform in size.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken breasts, rubbing it in for even coverage.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Drizzle Sweet Baby Ray's barbecue sauce over the chicken, coating well. Add chicken broth if desired.
- Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once done, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, mixing it with the remaining sauce.
- Serve warm over rice, in burgers, or on its own.
Leave a Reply