Description

Cozy fall flavors meet effortless slow-cooker magic in this Apple Butter BBQ Chicken. Tender chicken simmers low and slow in a luscious, sweet-smoky sauce where apple butter and BBQ sauce dance together. Perfect for sandwiches, bowls, wraps, or a potluck DIY bar, this dish is a hug-in-a-bowl that fills your kitchen with the aroma of autumn.

Instructions

Chicken & Sauce:

2½–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs stay juicier)
1 cup apple butter (or pumpkin butter, or unsweetened applesauce reduced with spices)
¾ cup barbecue sauce (smoky or sweet)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
½ tsp onion powder (or ¼ cup sautéed onion)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

Dash of cayenne or chipotle powder for heat
1–2 tbsp bourbon for warmth
Sliced onions under the chicken for extra flavor

Notes

1. Prep Chicken & Slow Cooker

Place chicken in the slow cooker. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Optional: Scatter sliced onions on the bottom.

2. Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together apple butter, BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and any optional add-ins. Taste and adjust seasonings.

3. Combine & Cook

Pour sauce over chicken, gently turning pieces to coat.
Cover and cook:
- LOW: 6–7 hours for fall-apart tenderness
- HIGH: 3–4 hours, checking for doneness
Chicken is ready when it shreds easily with a fork (internal temp 165°F).

4. Shred & Soak

Remove chicken to a bowl or cutting board. Shred with two forks (or stand mixer on low for 10–15 seconds).
Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stir to coat, and let sit 10–15 minutes to soak up the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Sandwich: Pile on buns, add coleslaw or pickle slices.
Sliders: Use mini brioche or Hawaiian rolls.
Cozy Bowl: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, grits, or sweet potato fries.
Lighter Option: Warm in whole wheat wraps or lettuce cups, topped with diced apples and green onions.
Potluck Bar: Keep warm on the slow cooker’s warm setting, serve with buns and toppings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours LOW or 3–4 hours HIGH

Nutrition

Calories: 330 cal Per Serving
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Protein: 45 g