Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Highlighted under: Hearty Home Delights
Enjoy a deliciously spicy twist on classic BBQ chicken sandwiches made effortlessly in your crockpot.
This Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. The chicken is slow-cooked in a flavorful BBQ sauce with a spicy kick, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bold and spicy flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
- Effortless preparation with the crockpot doing all the work
- Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner
The Perfect Party Dish
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches make for an ideal dish for any gathering. Their bold flavors and tender, juicy chicken are sure to impress your guests. The best part? You can prepare everything in advance and let the crockpot do the work while you enjoy quality time with your friends and family. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient, allowing you to focus on entertaining rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
Picture this: a bustling backyard barbecue or a cozy indoor gathering on a rainy day. With these sandwiches, you can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Serve the spicy chicken alongside coleslaw and pickles, and let your guests customize their sandwiches to their liking. Everyone will appreciate the ability to build their perfect bite.
Flavor Versatility
One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the level of spiciness to suit your palate by modifying the amount of hot sauce used. For those who prefer a milder option, simply reduce the hot sauce or choose a BBQ sauce that leans toward sweetness rather than heat. This adaptability makes it a great choice for families or mixed groups where everyone has different taste preferences.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of BBQ sauce. A smoky, hickory-flavored sauce can lend a different depth to the chicken, while a tangy vinegar-based sauce can brighten the overall dish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a unique flavor profile each time you make these sandwiches.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Spicy BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, as you can enjoy it throughout the week in various forms. Use the chicken in salads, wraps, or even as a topping for baked potatoes to keep your meals interesting.
When it comes to reheating, simply place the chicken back in a pan over low heat until warmed through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. You can also add a splash of BBQ sauce to keep the chicken moist. With these tips, you can savor the delightful flavors of your spicy BBQ chicken sandwiches even days after the initial meal.
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken
- 2 lbs 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 your favorite toppings for a personalized sandwich!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In the crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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 with the sauce.
Assemble the Sandwiches
Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Enjoy your delicious sandwiches!
Pro Tips
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce. You can also add some diced onions or bell peppers to the crockpot for extra flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have boneless, skinless chicken breasts on hand? No problem! You can easily substitute with chicken thighs, which will add even more flavor and juiciness to your dish. Alternatively, if you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using jackfruit or tofu, marinated and cooked in the same spices and sauces for a delicious plant-based alternative.
For those who prefer a gluten-free option, simply swap out the hamburger buns for gluten-free alternatives or lettuce wraps. You can still enjoy that satisfying sandwich experience without compromising on taste or texture.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, consider adding a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing on top of the coleslaw. This creamy addition can balance out the heat and add a delicious tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the sandwich.
You might also want to serve these sandwiches alongside some crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the richness of the BBQ chicken perfectly and will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair well with chips, fries, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Enjoy a deliciously spicy twist on classic BBQ chicken sandwiches made effortlessly in your crockpot.
Created by: Rowena Clarke
Recipe Type: Hearty Home Delights
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the BBQ Chicken
- 2 lbs 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
In the 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 on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and mix with the sauce.
Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Extra Tips
- For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce. You can also add some diced onions or bell peppers to the crockpot for extra flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 35g