Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of spicy BBQ chicken served on a soft bun. Perfect for a casual dinner or game day!
These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a family favorite. The chicken cooks slowly in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve them at your next gathering for a crowd-pleasing dish!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender, juicy chicken infused with spicy BBQ flavors
- Minimal prep time and easy slow-cooking
- Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or salads
- Great for gatherings and easy to feed a crowd
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
When it comes to busy weeknights, finding a meal that is both quick to prepare and satisfying can be a challenge. Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are the ideal solution, allowing you to set it and forget it. With just a few minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal cooking away while you tackle other tasks. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want to enjoy a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Moreover, the slow cooking process enhances the flavors, resulting in tender, juicy chicken that is bursting with taste. The combination of BBQ sauce and hot sauce brings a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, making it a hit among family and friends. By the time dinner rolls around, all you need to do is shred the chicken and assemble your sandwiches!
Versatile Serving Options
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While serving the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns is a classic choice, there are numerous ways to enjoy this dish. You can easily transform it into tasty tacos by using soft tortillas and adding your favorite toppings. Alternatively, serve it over a fresh bed of greens for a lighter option or mix it into a hearty salad for added texture.
The addition of coleslaw and pickles not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to each bite. Feel free to customize your toppings according to your preferences, making this dish suitable for everyone at the table. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that this meal never gets old.
Perfect for Gatherings
If you’re planning a gathering or game day party, these Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic choice. They are easy to prepare in large batches and can accommodate a crowd without any hassle. Simply double or triple the ingredients, and you’ll have enough to feed a hungry group, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without being stuck in the kitchen.
Additionally, the hands-off cooking method means you can spend more time with your guests and less time worrying about the food. Set up a DIY sandwich bar with various toppings, allowing everyone to customize their sandwiches to their liking. This interactive approach not only makes for a fun dining experience but also ensures that everyone leaves satisfied.
Ingredients
For the Spicy BBQ Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 4 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
Mix all ingredients well before cooking.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and pour over the chicken.
Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Shred and Serve
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot. Serve on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Enjoy your delicious sandwiches!
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken
To make the most of your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the BBQ sauce and hot sauce mixture. This extra step will intensify the flavors and ensure that every bite is packed with deliciousness. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of BBQ sauces to find the perfect balance that suits your taste buds.
For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture before cooking. This will elevate the spice level and give your sandwiches an exciting twist. Remember to adjust the hot sauce according to your spice tolerance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delightful meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them is simple and convenient. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, the BBQ chicken will last for up to three to four days in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
You can also freeze the leftovers for longer storage. Place the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This makes for a quick and easy meal option for those busy days!
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, consider serving them with classic side dishes. Crispy potato chips or sweet potato fries make for an easy, crunchy side that pairs well with the savory flavors of the chicken. For a healthier option, a side salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
Don’t forget about beverages! A cold beer or a refreshing iced tea can enhance your dining experience. For those looking for something non-alcoholic, consider serving lemonade or sparkling water with fruit slices to keep it light and enjoyable. These pairings will elevate your meal and satisfy all your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?
They pair well with coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken a day in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.
→ How can I adjust the spiciness?
You can adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your taste preference. For milder flavor, use less hot sauce.
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of spicy BBQ chicken served on a soft bun. Perfect for a casual dinner or game day!
Created by: Tabitha Green
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Spicy BBQ Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 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. In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and pour over the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot. Serve on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 30g