Crockpot Root Beer Chicken
What makes this recipe so great is its simplicity. You don’t have to stand over the stove, constantly checking or stirring. Instead, you layer the ingredients in your crockpot, set it on low, and let the magic unfold over a few hours.
Equipment
- Crockpot (Slow Cooker)
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs or spoon
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Sauce:
- 12 oz 1 can root beer
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder optional for a little heat
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ small onion finely chopped
Optional for Serving:
- Cooked rice mashed potatoes, or sandwich buns
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the sauce stick better and improves flavor.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Optional pro tip: For extra flavor, let the seasoned chicken rest for 10–15 minutes before cooking—it allows the spices to soak in.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the root beer, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), minced garlic, and chopped onion.
- Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
- Pro tip: Whisk continuously to prevent any clumps of ketchup or spices from forming.
Step 3: Assemble in the Crockpot
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot in a single layer.
- Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
- Optional pro tip: For easier cleanup, you can spray the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray before adding chicken and sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking—it lets heat escape and can extend cooking time.
- The chicken is done when it’s tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Use tongs to transfer the chicken to a serving plate or shred it directly in the crockpot for sandwiches or tacos.
- Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to enhance flavor.
- Serve alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or on sandwich buns for a complete meal.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving, approximate for 1/4 of 4 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Sugars: 15 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Sodium: 750 mg