Do Share Recipe

Easy Barbacoa Chicken Recipe – Smoky, Tender & Slow Cooker Friendly

I’ll admit, I was a little hesitant to try making barbacoa chicken at home. But wow, what a game-changer! Packed with smoky chipotle flavors and tender meat that just falls apart, this recipe delivered on every level.

The best part? It came together effortlessly in the slow cooker. It was even better than I imagined, and now my family can’t get enough. Add bold flavors to your dinner table with our Barbacoa Bowl Recipe.

Ingredients for Barbacoa Chicken Recipe

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, quartered
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
1 bay leaf
1/3 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Note: Serves 6.

Variations to Try

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are ways to customize and adjust it:

Use chicken breasts for a leaner option if thighs aren’t your preference.
For a dairy-free meal, skip any sour cream or cheese toppings entirely.
Prefer less spice? Reduce the chipotle peppers or swap with mild green chilies.
For a richer flavor, substitute beef broth for chicken broth.
Add fresh lime juice at the end to brighten up the dish even more.

Find more flavorful options in our dinner recipes roundup.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours and 10 minutes

Equipment You Need

Slow Cooker: Essential for cooking the chicken to tender perfection.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the onion, garlic, and chipotle peppers.
Mixing Bowl: To combine the sauce ingredients.
Forks: Needed to shred the cooked chicken.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients.

How to Make Barbacoa Chicken?

This barbacoa chicken recipe is both simple and rewarding. The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you with juicy, flavorful meat perfect for tacos, bowls, and more.

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper. Place the pieces in the slow cooker along with the onion, garlic cloves, and a bay leaf. This simple base ensures the chicken absorbs amazing flavor as it cooks.

Step 2: Make the Sauce and Combine

Grab a mixing bowl and stir together the chipotle peppers, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, cumin, oregano, and chicken broth. Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook

Set the slow cooker on low and allow it to cook for about 4 hours. Keep an eye on the time – overcooking chicken can make it dry. Once the meat is done, remove the bay leaf and onions.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the pot. Toss the shredded meat back into the sauce for another 10-15 minutes to soak up all that bold flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your barbacoa chicken is now ready to serve! Use it as a topping for tacos, bowls, or salads. Each bite bursts with smoky, savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is a total winner, and here’s why:

Slow cooker-friendly, so it’s mostly hands-off.
Lower in carbs and perfect for various diets.
Smoked chipotle adds authentic barbacoa flavor without much effort.
Customizable to your spice tolerance and preferences.
Perfect for feeding a crowd, with leftovers that taste just as great.

How to Serve Barbacoa Chicken?

Presentation is key! Arrange the shredded chicken on a large platter and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Serve alongside warm tortillas for tacos or create a vibrant bowl with rice, beans, guacamole, and your favorite shredded cheese. For an extra pop, top with thinly sliced radishes or pickled onions. Also try this with our new Barbacoa Beef Recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving (approx. 6 oz of chicken):

Calories: 208
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 6g

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is fantastic for meal prep and can easily be stored for later. Once the chicken is cooked and shredded, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little extra broth to keep it moist.

For longer storage, transfer the shredded chicken and its sauce to freezer-safe bags. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to use.

Tips for Making the Recipe

I’ve learned some tricks after making this recipe, and I hope they help you too!

Shred the chicken easily by using a hand mixer instead of forks. It’s super quick!
Add an extra chipotle pepper for a smokier, spicier flavor.
Use slow cooker liners for mess-free clean-up.
For a tangier flavor, add a splash of orange juice during cooking.
Don’t throw away the sauce! Drizzle it over rice or use as a taco topping.

Can You Use This Chicken as Part of Meal Prep?

Absolutely! Barbacoa chicken is a meal-prepper’s dream. Package it with rice, beans, and veggies in airtight containers for tasty, well-balanced lunches throughout the week. It actually tastes even more flavorful the next day as the spices continue to meld.

What Other Types of Meat Can I Use Instead of Chicken?

If chicken isn’t your thing, don’t worry – this recipe is versatile! Swap the chicken with beef chuck roast, pork shoulder, or even turkey thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on the cut of meat for the best results.

Barbacoa chicken brings bold, smoky flavors to your table, and it’s easy enough for even the busiest of weeknights. Whether served in tacos, bowls, or salads, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!

Ben Carraoli