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Cozy Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken

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A simple, budget-friendly slow cooker pulled chicken recipe with caramelized onions, perfect for easy weeknight dinners and feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or substitute brown sugar with honey

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice 2 large yellow onions and mince 3 garlic cloves (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Add garlic in the last 2 minutes to avoid burning.
  3. Season 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt (about 1 teaspoon), black pepper, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Pat seasoning in gently.
  4. Spoon half of the caramelized onion mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top, then cover with remaining onions.
  5. Pour 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar over the chicken. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons brown sugar evenly on top.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is fork-tender and shreds easily.
  7. Remove chicken to a plate and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to slow cooker and stir to combine with onions and juices.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
  9. Serve warm on its own, in sandwiches, or over rice or mashed potatoes.

Notes

Sautéing onions before slow cooking enhances flavor. Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Reserve some cooking liquid to moisten leftovers. Can be adapted for Instant Pot using sauté and pressure cook functions.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, pulled chicken, easy dinner, budget-friendly, chicken thighs, caramelized onions, crockpot recipe

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/cozy-slow-cooker-pulled-chicken-recipe-easy-budget-friendly-dinner-ideas/