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comfort food slow cooker

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken

This effortless slow cooker BBQ chicken delivers fall-off-the-bone tender meat infused with sweet and tangy flavors. The secret addition of cola helps break down the chicken while adding subtle caramel notes, creating a deliciously comforting meal with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can cola
  • 1 medium lemon thinly sliced
  • 1 (18 ounce) bottle barbecue sauce
  • 1 medium onion thinly sliced
  • 1 bag chicken legs

Equipment

  • Slow cooker

Method
 

  1. Layer some of the sliced onions and lemons on the bottom of your slow cooker.
  2. Arrange the chicken legs on top of the onion and lemon base.
  3. Scatter the remaining onion slices and lemon slices over the chicken.
  4. Pour the entire bottle of barbecue sauce over the chicken arrangement.
  5. Add the can of cola to the slow cooker.
  6. Cover with the lid and set to cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, until the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender.

Notes

For a healthier version, use skinless chicken legs or substitute with chicken thighs or breasts. The barbecue sauce can be swapped for any variety you prefer - spicy, smoky, or sweet will all work well. Try root beer or Dr. Pepper instead of cola for a different flavor profile, or pineapple juice for a tropical twist. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
This chicken pairs perfectly with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, or cornbread. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad.