Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this chicken and baked beans will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Sweet and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves chicken and beans.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken, beans, and barbecue sauce are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 large pieces)
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2 (28-ounce) cans baked beans in tomato sauce
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1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite, regular or smoky)
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1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
Ingredient Notes
Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Baked beans: Use baked beans in tomato sauce.
Barbecue sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce.
Onion: Adds sweetness and savory depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with oil or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Layer the Onions
Spread the sliced onion evenly over the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Lay the chicken breasts on top of the onions in a single layer.
Step 4: Mix the Beans and Barbecue Sauce
In a medium bowl, stir together the baked beans and barbecue sauce until well combined.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the bean and barbecue sauce mixture evenly over the chicken.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is very tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Serve
Serve the chicken breasts whole, spooning plenty of beans and sauce over the top. Optionally, shred the chicken and stir it into the beans.
How to Serve Chicken and Baked Beans
This sweet, savory chicken is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
With Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the sauce.
With Cornbread: A perfect Southern side.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Coleslaw: Cool, creamy coleslaw balances the sweetness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Make It with Different Beans: Use barbecue beans or pork and beans.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use spicy or honey barbecue sauce.
Make It with Onion: Add extra onions.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Mustard: Add a spoonful of mustard.
Make It with Bacon: Add crumbled bacon.
Make It with Brown Sugar: Add brown sugar for extra sweetness.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free barbecue sauce and beans.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Let the chicken rest before serving. This keeps it tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Pork chops or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different bean?
Yes. Pork and beans can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Any barbecue sauce works.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The chicken released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add peppers or onions.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes. They stay juicier.
The Beauty of Simple Slow Cooker Meals
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, sweet, savory meal that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This chicken and baked beans is a celebration of all those things.
Keep chicken in your freezer. Keep beans and barbecue sauce in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 6 to 8 hours
Yield: 6 servings