Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy the perfect blend of spicy and savory with these delicious crockpot BBQ chicken sandwiches, ideal for any gathering.

Erin Wallace

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:07:17.088Z

These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are not just a meal; they are an experience! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the flavors meld together. Your family and friends will love the kick of spice combined with the sweetness of BBQ sauce.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Tender chicken cooked to perfection with a spicy BBQ kick
  • Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
  • Great for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a game day feast, or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe delivers. The combination of tender chicken and zesty BBQ sauce is sure to please everyone at the table.

Not only are these sandwiches a crowd-pleaser, but they also make entertaining a breeze. You can prepare the chicken in advance and let the crockpot do all the work while you enjoy time with your guests. Plus, the clean-up is minimal, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – good food and great company.

Customizable Flavor Profile

One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the cayenne pepper. Alternatively, if you like a bit more heat, feel free to add extra cayenne or even some sliced jalapeños to the mix.

Additionally, the toppings you choose can elevate your BBQ chicken sandwiches even further. While coleslaw and pickles are classic options, consider adding sliced jalapeños, avocado, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a fun and customizable experience.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store the extra chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it easy to whip up quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the shredded chicken. Store it in freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Coleslaw (optional)
  • Pickles (optional)

Combine all the ingredients for the chicken in the crockpot for a delicious meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken to coat evenly.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.

Serve

Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.

Enjoy your delicious sandwiches!

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, consider pairing them with sides that complement the flavors of the dish. Classic options include crispy potato chips, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad. These sides not only enhance the meal but also provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.

For a more festive touch, serve the sandwiches at a gathering with various toppings and sides laid out buffet-style. This way, guests can customize their sandwiches to their liking, making it an interactive dining experience that everyone will enjoy.

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier, there are a few easy substitutions you can make. Instead of traditional hamburger buns, consider using whole grain or lettuce wraps for a lighter option. This not only reduces the calorie count but also adds extra fiber to your meal.

You can also opt for a lower-sugar BBQ sauce or make your own at home to control the ingredients. By doing so, you'll still enjoy the delicious flavors while being mindful of your health. These small adjustments allow you to indulge without compromising your dietary goals.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and cook them in the morning.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover BBQ chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be used in salads, tacos, or pasta dishes.

→ Can I use other meats?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or beef, but cooking times may vary.

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Enjoy the perfect blend of spicy and savory with these delicious crockpot BBQ chicken sandwiches, ideal for any gathering.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration6 hours
Overall Time6 hours 15 minutes

Created by: Erin Wallace

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chicken

  1. 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
  3. 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
  4. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  5. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  1. 4 hamburger buns
  2. Coleslaw (optional)
  3. Pickles (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken to coat evenly.

Step 02

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 03

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.

Step 04

Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 30g