Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken is a savory and tender dish that brings the bold flavors of barbecue to your kitchen without the need for a grill. This recipe uses chicken breast, simmered in a rich, homemade barbecue sauce until perfectly tender, then shredded and served. It’s a great option for a quick and delicious meal, perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon liquid smoke for a smokier flavor
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, mustard powder, cayenne pepper, and liquid smoke (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the chicken cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through and tender.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir it into the sauce, cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the barbecue pulled chicken on its own, or pile it high on buns for delicious sandwiches.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 325
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 40g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 6 people
This Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken is a fantastic choice for anyone craving the comfort of barbecue flavors with the convenience of a quick, one-pot meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the leftovers (if there are any!) are even tastier the next day. Enjoy it as a hearty filling for sandwiches, a topping for salads, or a delicious addition to your favorite barbecue sides. Bon appétit!
