Easy Shredded BBQ Chicken (Healthy & Low-Calorie) Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a juicy, flavorful BBQ chicken dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a comforting yet nutritious meal, these Easy Shredded BBQ Chicken Sliders are the perfect answer.

Shredded BBQ chicken is a beloved classic because of its versatility and mouthwatering flavors. It’s tender, juicy, and packed with smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with soft buns, crisp coleslaw, or even as a topping for salads, tacos, and wraps. Unlike traditional BBQ dishes that can be heavy on calories, this version is lean, low-calorie, and packed with protein—making it a guilt-free indulgence for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Best of all, this recipe requires minimal effort. Whether you use a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or stovetop, the result is always a tender, fall-apart chicken that’s coated in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make – Toss everything in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or pan, and let it cook while you go about your day.
• Healthy & Low-Calorie – Uses boneless, skinless chicken breast, a lean protein, and a homemade BBQ sauce with less sugar and additives.
• Incredibly Versatile – Serve it in sliders, tacos, rice bowls, salads, or wraps.
• Meal Prep & Freezer-Friendly – Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
• Packed with Flavor – Smoky, sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of spice!

Ingredients

For the Shredded BBQ Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (low-sugar or homemade)
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt

For Serving (Optional but Recommended)

• Whole wheat or low-calorie slider buns
• Fresh coleslaw (made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing)
• Sliced pickles
• Extra BBQ sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice blend all over the chicken breasts to infuse them with flavor before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken (Choose Your Cooking Method)

Slow Cooker Method (Recommended for the Most Tender Chicken)

1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, then pour it over the chicken.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

Instant Pot Method (For a Quick Version)

1. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot.
2. Pour in the BBQ sauce mixture and secure the lid.
3. Set to Pressure Cook (High) for 10 minutes, then allow a natural release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Stovetop Method (For Quick Cooking Without Appliances)

1. In a large pan, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, then pour in the BBQ sauce mixture.
3. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a large bowl or plate. Use two forks to shred it into fine pieces. Pour some of the cooking liquid back over the shredded chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

• Toast slider buns for extra flavor and crunch.
• Pile the shredded BBQ chicken onto the buns.
• Top with coleslaw and sliced pickles for a refreshing contrast.
• Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

Tips for the Best Shredded BBQ Chicken

• Use Chicken Breast for a Leaner Option – If you prefer juicier meat, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs.
• Don’t Overcook – Overcooking can dry out the chicken, so keep an eye on the time.
• Shred While Warm – The chicken is easiest to shred when it’s still hot.
• Add More BBQ Sauce – For extra flavor, mix in a little more BBQ sauce before serving.

Creative Variations

• Spicy BBQ Chicken – Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Honey BBQ Chicken – Mix in 2 tbsp honey for a sweet and sticky twist.
• BBQ Ranch Chicken – Stir in 2 tbsp ranch dressing for a creamy kick.
• Buffalo BBQ Chicken – Add ¼ cup buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as sliders with a side of sweet potato fries.
• Use as a filling for BBQ chicken tacos with avocado and fresh lime.
• Enjoy over a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• Add to a salad with mixed greens, corn, and black beans.
• Make a BBQ chicken wrap with whole wheat tortillas.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze – Place in freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Final Thoughts: Try This Easy Shredded BBQ Chicken Today!

This Easy Shredded BBQ Chicken is everything you could want in a meal—healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe has you covered. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.

Give it a try and let us know how you enjoyed it! What’s your favorite way to serve BBQ shredded chicken? Drop a comment below!

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