Slow Cooker Coca-Cola Chicken

Slow Cooker Coca-Cola Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce, creating a flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family. The unique addition of Coca-Cola infuses the chicken with a subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall taste and tenderness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal prep time, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do all the work.​Real Simple+2The Seasoned Mom+2thebestblogrecipes.com+2
• Flavorful and Tender: The combination of Coca-Cola and barbecue sauce results in a rich, savory flavor, while the slow cooking process ensures the chicken remains moist and tender.​
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served whole, shredded on sandwiches, or over rice, this dish adapts to various meal preferences.​The Spruce Eats+3thebestblogrecipes.com+3The Seasoned Mom+3

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts​
• Black pepper​Log in or sign up to view+2Spaceships and Laser Beams+2thebestblogrecipes.com+2
• Minced onion flakes​Log in or sign up to view+11Spaceships and Laser Beams+11thebestblogrecipes.com+11
• Garlic salt​thebestblogrecipes.com+1Spaceships and Laser Beams+1
• Barbecue sauce​The Spruce Eats+3Spaceships and Laser Beams+3thebestblogrecipes.com+3
• Coca-Cola​

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.​Spaceships and Laser Beams+1thebestblogrecipes.com+1
2. Season: Sprinkle black pepper, minced onion flakes, and garlic salt over the chicken.​Spaceships and Laser Beams+1thebestblogrecipes.com+1
3. Add Sauce and Soda: Pour a portion of the barbecue sauce over the seasoned chicken, followed by Coca-Cola.​Spaceships and Laser Beams+1Southern Plate+1
4. Cook: Cover and set the slow cooker to high for 4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.​The Recipe Critic+2thebestblogrecipes.com+2Spaceships and Laser Beams+2
5. Enhance the Sauce: Midway through cooking, drain excess liquid, then add the remaining barbecue sauce and Coca-Cola. Continue cooking for the remaining time.​thebestblogrecipes.com+1Spaceships and Laser Beams+1
6. Serve: Serve the chicken whole with sauce drizzled on top, or shred it and mix with the sauce for sandwiches or over rice.​Spaceships and Laser Beams+1thebestblogrecipes.com+1

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.​thebestblogrecipes.com
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes​
• Cooking Time: 4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low​Effortless Foodie+7thebestblogrecipes.com+7Spaceships and Laser Beams+7

Variations

• Alternative Sodas: Experiment with different sodas like Dr. Pepper or root beer for a unique flavor twist.​Slimming Eats+1Dee Dee Does+1
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the barbecue mixture for some heat.​The Spruce Eats
• Different Cuts of Chicken: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor and juicier texture.​

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
• Freezing: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.​Effortless Foodie
• Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a microwave-safe dish until heated through, or warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce if needed to maintain moisture.​

FAQs

Can I use Diet Coke instead of regular Coca-Cola?

Yes, you can substitute Diet Coke; however, the flavor may be slightly different due to the artificial sweeteners.​

What type of barbecue sauce works best for this recipe?

Use your favorite barbecue sauce. Whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy, choose one that you enjoy, as it will significantly influence the dish’s flavor.​

Is it necessary to drain the liquid midway through cooking?

Draining the excess liquid helps concentrate the sauce, resulting in a thicker, more flavorful coating for the chicken.​

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can simmer the ingredients in a large pot over low heat until the chicken is cooked through and tender, approximately 1-2 hours.​

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is tender enough to shred easily.​

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding sliced bell peppers or onions can enhance the flavor and add a nutritional boost.​

What sides pair well with Coca-Cola Chicken?

This dish pairs well with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a simple green salad.​

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place the insert into the slow cooker base and start cooking.​Southern Living

Is it possible to overcook the chicken in the slow cooker?

While slow cookers are forgiving, overcooking can lead to dry chicken. It’s best to adhere to the recommended cooking times.​Spaceships and Laser Beams+3SELF+3Southern Living+3

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

It’s recommended to thaw chicken breasts before using them in the slow cooker to ensure even cooking and food safety.​

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Coca-Cola Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy days. Its sweet and tangy sauce, combined with tender chicken, makes it a family favorite. With easy preparation and versatile serving options, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

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