Easy Stovetop Barbecue Pulled Chicken
This incredibly easy 30 minute Barbecue Pulled Chicken cooks in one pot on your stovetop! Tender chicken thighs simmer in a quick homemade smoky sweet sauce for the ultimate versatile weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Make Sauce: In a large Dutch oven or pot, whisk ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Cook Chicken: Add chicken to sauce; toss to coat. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium low. Partially cover pot (lid ajar 1 inch). Simmer for 20 mins.
- Shred: Uncover. Chicken should be very tender. Shred directly in pot using two forks.
- Finish: Increase heat to medium high. Cook, stirring, 5-10 mins until sauce is thickened and clings to chicken.
- Serve: Season to taste. Serve on buns, in tacos, salads, etc.
Notes
- Thighs: Chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness, but breasts can be used (adjust cook time as needed).
- Smoked Paprika: Do not substitute regular paprika; smoked is essential for flavor.
- Storage: Cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.