5-Ingredient Memorial Weekend Slow Cooker Chicken

Description

This 5-Ingredient Memorial Weekend Slow Cooker Chicken is a simple, juicy, and crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for gatherings and holidays. It’s made with minimal ingredients but delivers rich, savory flavor as the chicken slowly cooks until tender and easy to shred. Ideal for sandwiches, sliders, or serving with sides at a family BBQ-style meal.

Ingredients

2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
½ cup chicken broth
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Place chicken in the slow cooker in an even layer.
Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the chicken.
Pour BBQ sauce and chicken broth on top. Add butter in small pieces.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until chicken is tender.
Shred chicken using two forks and mix well with sauce.
Serve warm on buns, sliders, rice, or baked potatoes.

Notes

Chicken thighs give a juicier texture, but breasts also work well.
Adjust BBQ sauce sweetness based on preference.
Add a splash of broth if sauce becomes too thick.

Tips

Toast buns for extra flavor and texture.
Add cheese on top for BBQ chicken melts.
Mix in coleslaw for sandwiches for crunch.

Servings

6–8 servings

Nutritional Info (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 340
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 1g

Benefits

Only 5 simple ingredients
High in protein
Great for parties and gatherings
Easy slow cooker “dump and go” recipe
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase cooking time and ensure it reaches safe internal temperature.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add hot sauce or spicy BBQ sauce.

Can I cook it overnight?

Yes, cook on LOW and switch to warm once done.

What can I serve it with?

Buns, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze shredded chicken in airtight containers for up to 2 months.