Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Name: Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 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; 4 hamburger buns; Coleslaw (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy the bold flavors of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-28T14:34:13.553Z

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a deliciously easy meal that brings the heat. The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy days or entertaining friends. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken infused with spicy BBQ flavor
Effortless preparation in a slow cooker
Perfectly paired with your favorite coleslaw
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

Perfect for Gatherings

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a hit at any gathering, whether it's a backyard barbecue, a family reunion, or a game day party. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on your guests while the slow cooker does the heavy lifting. The tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating the meal. With minimal effort, you can serve up a crowd-pleasing dish that satisfies all taste buds, especially for those who enjoy a little spice.

When hosting an event, simplicity is key. This recipe allows you to prepare the chicken in advance, ensuring you have more time to spend with family and friends. Just set it and forget it! By the time your guests arrive, you'll have delicious, tender sandwiches ready to go, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts.

Meal Prep Made Easy

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken is not just a fantastic dish for gatherings; it’s also perfect for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply shred the chicken once it’s cooked, and portion it out for easy access. Pair it with fresh vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete meal that’s ready in minutes.

With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this BBQ chicken stays delicious even after reheating. The longer it sits in the sauce, the more infused the flavors become, making it a great option for meals that taste just as good the next day. Plus, you can customize the serving style each time, keeping your meals exciting and varied.

Customizing Your Sandwich

One of the best aspects of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is their versatility. You can easily customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of hot sauce used in the recipe. For those who prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the hot sauce, or for those who love a fiery kick, feel free to add more. This makes the dish adaptable to different preferences, ensuring everyone at your table is happy.

Additionally, the toppings for your sandwiches can be as creative as you want. While coleslaw pairs perfectly with the spicy chicken, you can try other toppings such as pickles, jalapeños, or avocado for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Experimenting with different sauces or dressings can also elevate your sandwiches, making each meal a unique experience.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking!

Main Ingredients

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
4 hamburger buns
Coleslaw (optional, for serving)

Make sure to have everything ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious sandwiches.

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Add BBQ Sauce

Pour the BBQ sauce and hot sauce over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated.

Cook

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

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the crockpot.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Serve the shredded chicken on hamburger buns topped with coleslaw if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches!

Serving Suggestions

These spicy BBQ chicken sandwiches are best served with a side of classic coleslaw, which adds a refreshing crunch and balances the heat of the chicken. You can also consider pairing them with sweet potato fries or a light salad for a complete meal. The contrast between the tender, spicy chicken and the crisp, cool coleslaw makes every bite a delight.

For a fun twist, serve these sandwiches with a variety of dipping sauces on the side. A zesty ranch or creamy blue cheese dressing can provide a rich complement to the spicy flavors. This encourages guests to get creative and mix and match their toppings, making for an interactive dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shredded BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to three months. Just be sure to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, place the chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain the tender texture of the chicken, ensuring a delicious meal every time.

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, consider using skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for added flavor and moisture without sacrificing health benefits. You can also opt for a sugar-free or low-sugar BBQ sauce to cut down on calories while still enjoying a flavorful dining experience.

For a low-carb option, serve the spicy BBQ chicken over a bed of lettuce or in lettuce wraps instead of traditional hamburger buns. This not only lightens the dish but also adds a refreshing crunch that complements the tender chicken perfectly. With these simple modifications, you can enjoy a guilt-free version of this beloved recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may increase the cooking time.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and cook them the next day.

→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?

They pair well with coleslaw, potato chips, or a light salad.