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Delicious Slow Cooker Root Beer Chicken served in a bun with barbecue sauce.

Root Beer Chicken

A sweet and savory slow-cooked chicken dish that's tender and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out.
  • 1 cup regular root beer Not diet; the sugar is crucial for the sauce.
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce Use your favorite type, sweet or smoky.
  • 1 small onion Optional, for added flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic Optional, for added flavor.
  • to taste salt Barbecue sauce is often seasoned.
  • to taste pepper Barbecue sauce is often seasoned.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Place chicken in the bottom of your slow cooker. Scatter onion underneath or around the chicken, if using.
  2. Add enough root beer to come about halfway up the chicken, without drowning it.
Cooking
  1. Cook on LOW for about 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for about 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is very tender.
  2. Carefully pour off most of the cooking liquid, leaving just a little to keep things moist.
  3. Stir in barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes on HIGH to thicken the sauce.
Serving
  1. Shred the chicken in the slow cooker for sandwiches, or slice it if you prefer a plated dinner.

Notes

Keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Can be frozen for 2-3 months. Best served with sandwiches, rice bowls, or over baked potatoes.