Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken
Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken
Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal, Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken is a fantastic choice! This dish is packed with flavor and is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. The best part? You can make it all in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare. Chicken thighs are tender and juicy, making them ideal for shredding. The combination of ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and spices creates a mouthwatering barbecue sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy homemade comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut in half widthwise
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat. Place over medium heat and simmer uncovered, tossing occasionally, for about 20 minutes.
- When the chicken is tender, use tongs to shred it directly in the pot or on a cutting board.
- Increase heat to high and cook until the barbecue sauce thickens, about 5-10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then serve.
How to Serve Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken
You can serve this pulled chicken in various ways. One popular method is to pile it high on a soft bun for a tasty sandwich. It also works wonderfully in tacos, on a salad, or over rice. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra barbecue sauce for added flavor!
How to Store Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the pulled chicken cool to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for later. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken
- Make sure to cut the chicken thighs into smaller pieces so they cook evenly.
- Feel free to customize the spices in the barbecue sauce to suit your taste.
- For a smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of liquid smoke to the sauce.
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe. For a spicy kick, add a tablespoon of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, mix in a little more brown sugar or honey.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily. Keep an eye on them while cooking.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ketchup.
3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken is a simple yet satisfying recipe that will surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite!
Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut in half widthwise
Barbecue Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat. Place over medium heat and simmer uncovered, tossing occasionally, for about 20 minutes.
- When the chicken is tender, use tongs to shred it directly in the pot or on a cutting board.
- Increase heat to high and cook until the barbecue sauce thickens, about 5-10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then serve.
