Crockpot Cola Chicken

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Crockpot Cola Chicken

Description

Crockpot Cola Chicken is a ridiculously easy slow-cooker meal made with just chicken and cola. As it cooks, the cola tenderizes the chicken and reduces into a lightly sweet, savory sauce. The result is juicy, pull-apart chicken that’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or anyone who wants dinner handled with basically zero brainpower.

 Ingredients

  • 2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1 (12–16 oz) can regular cola (not diet)

That’s it. Truly.

Instructions

  1. Place chicken in the crockpot in a single layer (stacking is fine).

  2. Pour the cola evenly over the chicken.

  3. Cover and cook:

    • Low: 6–7 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours

  4. Chicken is done when it’s fork-tender and reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

  5. Serve whole or shred directly in the crockpot.

Notes

  • Thighs stay extra juicy; breasts shred beautifully.

  • Sauce will be thin—this is normal. It thickens slightly as it cools.

  • Flavor is mild and slightly sweet, making it very kid-friendly.

Tips & Variations

  • Add flavor (optional): A pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder

  • BBQ twist: Stir in ½–1 cup BBQ sauce at the end

  • Savory balance: Add 1–2 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire

  • Thicker sauce: Remove chicken and simmer sauce on the stove for 10 minutes

  • Serve it with: Rice, mashed potatoes, slider buns, or roasted veggies

 Servings

  • Serves: 6

  • Serving size: ~5–6 oz cooked chicken

 Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)

(Varies by cut of chicken and cola brand)

  • Calories: ~260

  • Protein: ~32g

  • Carbohydrates: ~12g

  • Sugar: ~11g

  • Fat: ~5g

  • Sodium: ~110mg

 Benefits

  • ✔ Only 2 ingredients

  • ✔ Dump-and-go prep

  • ✔ Budget-friendly

  • ✔ Kid-approved flavor

  • ✔ Great for meal prep

  • ✔ Hands-off cooking

Q & A

Q: Can I use diet cola?
A: You can, but regular cola works best for flavor and tenderizing.

Q: Will it taste like soda?
A: Nope! The sweetness mellows and becomes a subtle caramelized flavor.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes. Freeze cooked chicken (with or without sauce) for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Sure—onions or bell peppers work well, but keep it simple for best texture.

Q: Is this safe for kids?
A: Yes. The caffeine doesn’t remain significant after long cooking.

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