Mission Bbq Pulled Chicken Recipe For Make Ahead Meal Prep On A Budget
If you’re looking for a delicious, budget-friendly meal that you can prep in advance, look no further than this Mission BBQ pulled chicken recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts, this recipe is designed to save you time and money while still delivering that rich, smoky flavor you crave. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or simply wanting to have tasty meals ready to go, this pulled chicken is versatile and satisfying.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 hamburger buns (for serving)
- Pickles and coleslaw (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Start by prepping your chicken. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring that the chicken is well coated.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken for added moisture and flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to cook slowly and absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and place them on a cutting board.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The chicken should be tender and easily fall apart.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it with the remaining sauce to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful.
- Serve the pulled chicken on toasted hamburger buns, garnished with pickles and coleslaw if desired.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Why This Recipe Works
This Mission BBQ pulled chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also caters to various dietary preferences and is very economical. Using chicken breasts, which are generally cheaper than other cuts of meat, allows you to create a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Plus, cooking it in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Meal Prep Tips
Meal prepping is a great way to save time and maintain a healthy diet. This pulled chicken can be made ahead and used in various meals throughout the week. Here are some ideas:
- Use it in sandwiches with a side of sweet potato fries.
- Incorporate it into salads for a protein boost.
- Serve it with rice and steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Make BBQ chicken tacos topped with your favorite toppings.
Storage Instructions
After making this pulled chicken, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions. This way, you can enjoy it later without having to cook from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
This pulled chicken is incredibly versatile. You can serve it on a classic hamburger bun, or go for something different like a tortilla or lettuce wrap for a lower-carb option. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob, for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time to 7-8 hours on low, or 4-5 hours on high.
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
You can use any BBQ sauce you prefer. Smoky, sweet, or spicy varieties work well, and you can even make your own homemade BBQ sauce if you want to control the ingredients.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! If you want to use an Instant Pot, cook the chicken on high pressure for 15 minutes with the same sauce mixture. Allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before shredding.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover pulled chicken can be used in various dishes like quesadillas, burritos, or simply heated up and served again with sides. It’s a great way to change up your meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
This Mission BBQ pulled chicken recipe is a game-changer for meal prep. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also delivers incredible flavor that can be enjoyed in various ways. Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal ready to go whenever you need it. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering pulled chicken that’s perfect for any occasion!
