Are you dreaming of tender, juicy pulled pork that practically melts in your mouth? Forget takeout and expensive restaurants! This recipe uses a Costco rotisserie chicken to create a delicious and surprisingly easy pulled pork that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both quick and impressive, making it one of the best recipes for busy cooks who still want delicious, healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 Costco rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3 lbs)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (12 ounce) bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce (we recommend a smoky variety)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns or slider buns, for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion in a little olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds amazing flavor.
Building the flavor:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Adding the chicken:
- Gently add the shredded Costco rotisserie chicken to the pot. Stir to combine everything well ensuring the chicken is coated in the flavorful sauce.
Simmer to perfection:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Serve and enjoy:
- Serve the pulled pork on hamburger buns or slider buns. Top with coleslaw for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra smoky flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier pulled pork.
- Make it your own: Experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor combination. Sweet baby ray's or a tangy Carolina style sauce both work well.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Meal prepping magic: This pulled pork is fantastic for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for a serving (approximately 6 ounces of pulled pork) is:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This easy recipe transforms a simple rotisserie chicken into a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect example of smart cooking and delicious food recipes that won't break the bank or take up your entire evening. Enjoy!