Slow Cooker Coca Cola Chicken

Slow Cooker Coca-Cola Chicken is a sweet, savory, and tender dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of Coca-Cola, BBQ sauce, and seasonings creates a rich, caramelized glaze that makes the chicken irresistibly delicious. This easy crockpot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make – Just dump the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Tender & Juicy Chicken – The Coca-Cola helps break down the chicken for fall-apart tenderness.
• Delicious Sweet & Savory Flavor – The soda adds caramelization and balances the tangy BBQ sauce.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Leftovers reheat beautifully for easy meals.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve over rice, in sandwiches, or with roasted veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Coca-Cola (regular, not diet)
• BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• Onion (sliced, optional)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt & pepper
• Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken in the slow cooker and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
   • Add sliced onions if using.
2. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour Coca-Cola over the chicken.
   • Add BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
3. Slow Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
4. Shred & Serve:
   • Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it into the sauce.
   • Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
   • Serve over rice, on buns as sandwiches, or with mashed potatoes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low / 3-4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6-7 hours (hands-off cooking!)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or hot sauce for heat.
• Honey Garlic Version: Stir in 2 tablespoons of honey and 2 minced garlic cloves.
• Tangy Twist: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a little extra tang.
• Pepsi or Dr. Pepper Option: Swap Coca-Cola for another soda for a different flavor.
• Pulled Chicken Style: Serve shredded on toasted buns with coleslaw for a pulled chicken sandwich.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes! Bone-in thighs or drumsticks work well but may need an extra hour of cooking time.

Will diet Coke work?

No, diet sodas don’t caramelize the same way and may result in a different flavor.

What BBQ sauce is best for this recipe?

A smoky or sweet BBQ sauce pairs best, but use your favorite!

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes with a quick release.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too watery?

Remove the lid in the last 30 minutes to let excess liquid evaporate.

What’s the best way to serve Coca-Cola chicken?

Over rice, in sandwiches, with mashed potatoes, or in tacos.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Store the cooked chicken in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by about an hour on low.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar work as substitutes.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Coca-Cola Chicken is an easy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get a juicy, tender dish that pairs well with almost anything. Whether you serve it over rice, in sandwiches, or with veggies, this sweet and savory chicken will quickly become a family favorite!

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