ROOT BEER PULLED CHICKEN

2 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast and thighs

2 tsp seasoned salt
1 can (12-oz) root beer
1 tbsp olive or canola oil
1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup molasses
2 tbsp prepared mustard
2 tsp liquid smoke
10 hamburger buns (seeded are great)
Slaw for topping, optional

Spray inside of slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray; turn cooker on low.

Sprinkle the seasoned salt over the chicken pieces and place in the cooker. Pour root beer over the chicken and turn cooker to high.

Place lid on cooker and continue to cook on high for 6-8 hours.

Approximately 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, place the oil in a saucepan and add onion; cook 5 minutes over medium-high heat until onion is golden brown. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, mustard and liquid smoke. Cook mixture on simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Drain the liquid from the slow cooker; reserve 1/2 cup.

Shred the chicken pieces, add the sauce and the reserved liquid, stir to coat well.

To serve, place 1/2 cup chicken on each bun and top with the slaw, if using.

Yield: 10 sandwiches

2014 Family Circle Photo