Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked in a rich, smoky, and sweet barbecue sauce. That’s exactly what you get with Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken—a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or game-day gatherings.
This dish has become a family favorite, and for a good reason! The combination of Sweet Baby Ray’s legendary BBQ sauce with a few pantry staples creates an unforgettable blend of flavors.
Whether you serve it over rice, in sandwiches, or alongside roasted veggies, this slow-cooked BBQ chicken is sure to be a hit!
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What Is Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken?
Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is a slow-cooked barbecue dish that combines boneless, skinless chicken breasts with a mouthwatering blend of BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and spices. The slow cooking process infuses the meat with deep, smoky, and slightly tangy flavors, making it incredibly tender and juicy.
Fun Fact:
Did you know that Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce was created in 1985 by a Chicago-based duo and quickly became one of the most popular BBQ sauces in the U.S.? It’s known for its thick, rich texture and bold, sweet-smoky flavor—perfect for crockpot recipes like this one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Effortless & Time-Saving – Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic!
✔️ Perfectly Tender & Juicy – Slow cooking makes the chicken melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
✔️ Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing – Serve it on sandwiches, tacos, or with classic sides.
✔️ Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – Just a few pantry staples transform into an irresistible meal.
Ingredients and Their Health Benefits
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious BBQ crockpot chicken:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – A lean protein source packed with essential amino acids.
- 1½ cups Sweet Baby Ray’s Original BBQ Sauce – Brings a rich, tangy, and smoky-sweet flavor.
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and tenderize the chicken.
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed) – Enhances the sauce with a deep caramelized sweetness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Boosts flavor and has immune-boosting properties.
- ½ tsp onion powder – Adds savory depth to the dish.
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes – Gives a mild kick of heat (optional, but recommended!).
💡 Tip: Want a healthier twist? Use a low-sugar BBQ sauce or substitute honey for brown sugar.
How to Make Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
This recipe couldn’t be easier! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful, tender, and delicious BBQ chicken ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot – Place chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom of a 4-5 quart slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Coat the Chicken – Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Slow Cook to Perfection – Cover and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Add Extra BBQ Sauce – Stir in the remaining ½ cup of BBQ sauce for extra richness.
- Thicken the Sauce – Turn the slow cooker to HIGH and cook uncovered for 30-45 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Serve & Enjoy! – Remove chicken from the crockpot, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve!
💡 Pro Tip: For extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the sauce.
What to Serve with Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken
Pair this dish with these delicious sides:
- Buttery Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – A classic BBQ pairing.
- Coleslaw – Adds crunch and freshness.
- Garlic Butter Roasted Veggies – A healthier option to balance the richness.
Top Tips for Success
✅ Room Temperature Chicken: Always start with room-temperature chicken for even cooking.
✅ Use a Crockpot Liner: Makes cleanup a breeze!
✅ Want Pulled Chicken? Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
✅ Try Different Proteins: This recipe works great with boneless pork roast or beef!
Storing and Reheating Instructions
📌 To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
📌 To Freeze: Allow chicken to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
📌 To Reheat: Warm in the microwave or slow cooker on low. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! But increase the cooking time to 6-7 hours on LOW and expect a thinner sauce due to added moisture.
What’s the best BBQ sauce alternative?
You can use any favorite BBQ sauce or try a homemade version with ketchup, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add extra red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
For a low-carb version, use sugar-free BBQ sauce and omit the brown sugar.
You May Also Love: 10 Must-Try Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Chicken Recipes for Easy Dinners!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a stress-free, delicious, and satisfying meal, Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken is a must-try! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd.
Give it a try and let us know how you like it! What’s your favorite way to serve this slow-cooked BBQ chicken? Drop a comment below! 👇🍗