Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal with these Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner.
This recipe for Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches combines the convenience of slow cooking with a kick of flavor that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender, juicy chicken infused with bold BBQ flavors
- Minimal prep time for a delicious, hands-off meal
- Perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner
The Perfect Blend of Spices
When it comes to BBQ chicken, the right blend of spices can elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. In this recipe, we use a combination of garlic powder and onion powder to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. The addition of hot sauce provides a delightful kick, allowing you to customize the spice level to suit your preferences. This balance of flavors ensures that each bite is packed with savory goodness.
The slow cooking process allows these spices to meld beautifully with the BBQ sauce, resulting in tender, juicy chicken that is bursting with flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a well-rounded dish that is both satisfying and delicious.
Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing
One of the best aspects of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is their versatility. They can be served at various occasions, from casual family dinners to lively game day gatherings. The ease of preparation means you can focus on enjoying time with your guests rather than stressing over the cooking process. Plus, who doesn’t love a good sandwich?
Additionally, this dish can easily be adapted to cater to different dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, simply serve the spicy BBQ chicken over a bed of greens or in gluten-free rolls. You can also swap out the coleslaw for a fresh salad if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Tips for the Best Sandwiches
To ensure your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a hit, consider toasting your hamburger buns before assembly. A crispy bun adds a delightful texture that complements the tender chicken perfectly. You can use a toaster or a skillet to lightly grill the buns, making them even more enjoyable.
Don’t forget the toppings! While coleslaw and pickles add crunch and tang, you can experiment with other toppings such as jalapeños for extra heat or avocado for creaminess. This flexibility allows you to create sandwiches that cater to everyone’s taste preferences.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds 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 Assembly
- 4 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Shred the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it with the sauce.
Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Pile the spicy BBQ chicken onto the buns and top with coleslaw and pickles if using.
Serve
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches!
Enjoy these sandwiches with your favorite sides!
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the shredded BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes for a convenient meal prep option, as you can easily reheat the chicken for quick lunches or dinners. Simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing salad to round out your meal. A cold beverage, such as iced tea or lemonade, complements the spicy flavors while keeping things refreshing. This combination makes for a delightful dining experience.
For a more festive touch, consider serving the sandwiches at a BBQ party or potluck. You can set up a DIY sandwich bar with various toppings, allowing guests to personalize their sandwiches according to their taste. This interactive dining experience adds an element of fun to your gathering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require additional cooking time.
→ What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce; sweet, smoky, or spicy varieties all work well.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair well with fries, potato salad, or a fresh garden salad.
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal with these Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner.
Created by: Talia Preston
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds 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 Assembly
- 4 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
How-To Steps
In a crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix it with the sauce.
Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Pile the spicy BBQ chicken onto the buns and top with coleslaw and pickles if using.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 30g