Delicious Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken on the grill, showcasing juicy, glazed meat.

Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a dish that everyone will love. It’s perfect for family dinners, summer barbecues, or even game day gatherings. Plus, cooking it in a slow cooker makes it easy and hassle-free, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

How to Make Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for serving
  • 1/2 cup packed light or brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 1/4 cup Italian dressing
  • 2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 potato buns
  • Coleslaw, for serving

Directions:

  1. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, Italian dressing, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.
  3. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours.
  4. Once done, shred the chicken using two forks and serve it on potato buns.
  5. Drizzle some barbecue sauce on top and add a spoonful of coleslaw for an extra crunch!

How to Serve Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken

Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken is best served on soft potato buns. You can drizzle additional barbecue sauce on the chicken for extra flavor. A scoop of coleslaw adds a fresh crunch, making each bite delightful. This dish pairs well with a side of baked beans, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down before storing it. Place the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove.

Tips to Make Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken

  • Make sure to season your chicken well. Don’t skip the salt and pepper!
  • If you like it spicier, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix.
  • Use high-quality barbecue sauce for the best flavor.
  • For a richer taste, let the chicken cook a little longer on low.

Variation

You can change up the flavor by using different types of sauces. Try a honey mustard or teriyaki sauce instead of barbecue sauce. You can also swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure they are cooked for an extra hour to ensure they are fully cooked.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free barbecue sauce and Italian dressing.

Q: Can I cook this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook it in the oven at 375°F for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.