Pulled BBQ Chicken

This braised pulled BBQ chicken is tender, saucy, and packed with slow-cooked flavor — the kind of comfort food that works for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike. Chicken gently braises until it’s fall-apart tender, soaking up smoky barbecue sauce, warm spices, and savory aromatics that create deep, rich flavor in every bite.

Perfect for sandwiches, sliders, bowls, or stuffed into baked potatoes, this pulled chicken is incredibly versatile. The braising method keeps the meat juicy while allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the shredded chicken, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, this braised BBQ chicken delivers big, backyard-style flavor without needing a smoker. It’s a reliable, family-friendly recipe that turns everyday chicken into a satisfying, crave-worthy meal you’ll come back to again and again.

Recipe Card

Servings: 6 |

Time: 15 minutes (prep)

  • 2 ½ lb boneless chicken thighs and/or breasts

    ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper

    3 tbsp brown sugar seasoning

    ½ cup favorite BBQ sauce

    ½ cup diced vidalia onion

    ¼ cup chicken broth

    chopped chives for serving

    1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Season the chicken with salt, pepper and the brown sugar seasoning.

    2. In a braising skillet, heat 1 tbsp neutral oil, over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken until golden brown.

    3. Add the onions, half of the BBQ sauce and chicken broth, mix, cover and place in the oven for 40 minutes.

    4. Shred the chicken, mix in the rest of the BBQ sauce and return to the oven for another 10 minutes. Serve with rolls (page 41) to make sliders or your favorite BBQ sides, like mac and cheese..

    1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper and the brown sugar seasoning.

    2. In the slow cooker pot, add the chicken, onions, BBQ sauce and chicken broth, mix, cover and cook on slow for 5 hours, or high for 3 hours.

    3. Shred the chicken and serve with your favorite BBQ sides.