Description
This Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken with 5-Ingredient Peanut Sauce is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken is slow-cooked to perfection and tossed with a creamy, slightly sweet peanut sauce, complemented with vibrant broccoli and bell peppers. The dish features simple ingredients and minimal prep, delivering a rich, satisfying taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Peanut Sauce
- â…“ cup natural peanut butter (at room temperature or melted)
- 1 garlic clove (finely grated or minced)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 4 tablespoons low-sodium gluten-free tamari or soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons rice vinegar or fresh lime juice
- â…“ cup warm water
- Hot sauce to taste
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups sliced red bell pepper
For Serving (Optional)
- Chopped green onion
- Fresh cilantro
- Additional hot sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the peanut sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, garlic, maple syrup, tamari, rice vinegar or lime juice, and warm water until very smooth. For an extra creamy texture, blend these ingredients until smooth.
- Cook the chicken: Place the chicken and â…“ cup of the prepared peanut sauce into a 6-quart slow cooker. Reserve the remaining sauce for later. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 4 to 5 hours until the chicken is tender and can be shredded easily with a fork. Be cautious not to overcook to avoid dryness.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks or chop into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the vegetables are just tender yet still vibrant.
- Combine and heat through: Carefully drain half of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker. Return the shredded chicken to the cooker along with the remaining peanut sauce. Gently stir to combine and heat through evenly. Alternatively, toss the chicken and vegetables with the cooking liquid and serve with the peanut sauce drizzled over the top or served on the side.
- Garnish and serve: Top the dish with chopped green onion, fresh cilantro, and additional hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for more flavorful and moist results, or chicken breasts for leaner protein.
- The peanut sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer spicier dishes, adjust the amount of hot sauce to your taste.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Ensure to not overcook the chicken to maintain tenderness and avoid dryness.
