Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, perfect for game days or casual get-togethers.
This recipe for Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches brings together tender chicken, a zesty sauce, and a touch of heat, making it a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender, juicy chicken infused with bold BBQ flavors
- Minimal prep time with maximum flavor payoff
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a versatile dish that fits seamlessly into any gathering. Whether you're hosting a raucous game day party or a relaxed family dinner, these sandwiches deliver both flavor and ease. The slow-cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious BBQ flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Moreover, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can whip up a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy flavorful sandwiches for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just prepare the chicken, store it in the fridge, and assemble your sandwiches as needed. It's a great way to save time while still enjoying home-cooked meals.
Customization and Variations
One of the great things about Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is their versatility. You can easily adjust the heat level by varying the amount of hot sauce you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the hot sauce, or opt for a BBQ sauce with a lower spice level. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add extra hot sauce or even sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Additionally, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste. Besides traditional coleslaw, consider adding pickles, sliced onions, or even avocado for a creamy texture. These simple changes can elevate your sandwich experience, making it uniquely yours!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious sandwiches throughout the week without any extra cooking. You can also freeze the shredded chicken for longer storage, allowing you to have a quick meal option ready whenever you need it.
When it comes to reheating, simply warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you're using the stovetop, add a splash of BBQ sauce to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. This simple step ensures that your sandwiches remain as delicious as the day you made them.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to make some delicious sandwiches!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches:
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add the Sauces
Pour the BBQ sauce and hot sauce over the chicken. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly.
Cook the Chicken
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 stir to combine with the sauce.
Assemble the Sandwiches
Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns and top with coleslaw if desired.
Enjoy your delicious sandwiches!
Serving Suggestions
These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with classic potato chips or sweet potato fries for a satisfying crunch. If you're looking for something healthier, a fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwiches.
For drinks, iced tea or lemonade complements the spiciness of the BBQ chicken beautifully. If you're hosting a gathering, a refreshing fruit punch can also be a delightful addition to your spread, keeping your guests hydrated and happy.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches provides a balanced meal packed with protein. Chicken is a lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and repair, while the spices and sauces offer a burst of flavor without overwhelming calories. To keep your meal healthier, consider using whole grain buns and topping the sandwiches with a generous serving of coleslaw made with a lighter dressing.
If you're mindful of your dietary needs, feel free to substitute the BBQ sauce for a sugar-free version or make your own at home. This way, you can control the ingredients and ensure your meal aligns with your health goals while still enjoying that classic BBQ taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair well with chips, fries, or a fresh salad.
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or beef, but cooking times may vary.
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, perfect for game days or casual get-togethers.
Created by: Helena Wright
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns for serving
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Pour the BBQ sauce and hot sauce over the chicken. Stir gently 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 stir to combine with the sauce.
Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns and top with coleslaw if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 30g