Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the deliciously spicy and tangy flavor of these easy-to-make crockpot BBQ chicken sandwiches that are perfect for any gathering.
These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser that combines tender chicken with a zesty BBQ sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken slow-cooked to perfection
- Spicy BBQ sauce that packs a flavorful punch
- Easy preparation with minimal cleanup
The Perfect Blend of Spice and Sweetness
These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb the rich BBQ sauce, enhanced with a kick of heat from the hot sauce. This combination ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor, making it a perfect dish for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.
Using a crockpot not only makes this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, but it also helps to achieve perfectly tender chicken. The low and slow cooking method breaks down the chicken fibers, resulting in a juicy and flavorful filling for your sandwiches. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Serving Suggestions
One of the best aspects of these BBQ chicken sandwiches is their versatility. You can serve them with a variety of toppings to suit your taste. While coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, pickles provide a tangy contrast that complements the rich flavors of the chicken. Feel free to get creative with your toppings; sliced jalapeños, avocado, or even your favorite cheese can elevate this dish to new heights.
For a complete meal, consider serving these sandwiches with a side of crispy fries or a light salad. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone at the table satisfied. Whether you're hosting a game day party or enjoying a casual family dinner, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 4 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
Mix and match ingredients based on your preference!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the Sauce
In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with hot sauce. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Shred and Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce. Serve on hamburger buns topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Enjoy your delicious sandwiches!
Why Choose Slow Cooking?
Slow cooking is a fantastic method for achieving rich, deep flavors in your meals. By allowing ingredients to simmer together for an extended period, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a delectable dish without the need for constant attention. In the case of these BBQ chicken sandwiches, the low heat helps to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with the smoky sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Additionally, slow cooking reduces the need for added fats in your recipes, making it a healthier cooking option. With minimal supervision required, you can focus on other tasks or simply relax while your meal cooks itself, making it perfect for busy lifestyles or when entertaining guests.
Customizing Your BBQ Sauce
One of the great things about this recipe is that you can customize the BBQ sauce to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a sweeter sauce, a tangy vinegar-based sauce, or something with a bit more heat, the choice is yours. Experiment with different brands or homemade recipes to find the perfect match for your taste buds.
You can also mix in additional spices or flavor enhancers like smoked paprika, honey, or even a splash of apple cider vinegar to create a unique sauce that stands out. The flexibility in this recipe makes it a canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your liking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce or try different varieties for unique flavors.
→ Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the 'Pressure Cook' setting for about 15 minutes, then shred and serve.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Savor the deliciously spicy and tangy flavor of these easy-to-make crockpot BBQ chicken sandwiches that are perfect for any gathering.
Created by: Erin Wallace
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the BBQ Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 4 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with hot sauce. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the crockpot.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce. Serve on hamburger buns topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 30g