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Healthy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken 1

Healthy Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken

A lean, protein-packed alternative to traditional pulled pork with 60% less fat while delivering that same satisfying BBQ experience. Perfect for meal prep, Weight Watchers, and busy families who want comfort food that supports their health goals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Low Cook Option 8 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, BBQ
Servings 8 servings
Calories 215 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker/Crockpot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Two Forks (for shredding)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup low-sugar BBQ sauce less than 5g sugar per serving
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. For maximum flavor absorption, let the seasoned chicken sit for 5-10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the low-sugar BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
  • Place the diced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavor base that will infuse upward during cooking.
  • Position the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the onion mixture, slightly overlapping if necessary to fit.
  • Pour the prepared BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure all pieces are well-coated.
  • Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 7-8 hours. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily with two forks.
  • Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure all shredded chicken is thoroughly coated in the sauce.
  • If the sauce seems too thin, leave the lid off and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:
  • Classic Sandwich: Serve on a whole grain bun with coleslaw
  • Protein Bowl: Create a bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and low-fat cheese
  • Stuffed Sweet Potato: Fill a baked sweet potato with pulled chicken
  • Lettuce Wraps: Use butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a low-carb option
  • BBQ Flatbread: Spread on a thin whole grain flatbread with light mozzarella
Storage Tips:
  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Freezing: Portion into individual servings and freeze for up to 3 months
  • Reheating: Add 1-2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth when reheating

Nutrition

Calories: 215kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 28gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 390mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 410IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword BBQ Chicken, Pulled Chicken, Slow Cooker, Crockpot, Low Sugar, Weight Watchers, Meal Prep
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