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 spicy BBQ sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Coleslaw (optional); Pickles (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a flavorful and tender BBQ chicken sandwich that is perfect for game day or a casual family dinner. This recipe uses a slow cooker to infuse the chicken with a spicy BBQ sauce, making it incredibly easy and delicious.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:28:14.506Z

This Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious spices, resulting in tender, juicy meat that pairs perfectly with your favorite buns.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Spicy BBQ sauce that adds a kick to each bite
Perfect for a crowd and easy to prepare

      

The Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, making them perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a backyard barbecue, or simply looking for an easy family dinner, this recipe fits the bill. The convenience of a slow cooker allows you to prepare the dish in advance, freeing you up to enjoy time with your guests or family while the flavors meld together beautifully.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix or by opting for a milder BBQ sauce. This means you can cater to different taste preferences, ensuring everyone at your table will find something they love. Serve these sandwiches alongside your favorite sides, and you've got a well-rounded meal that everyone will rave about.

Tips for Perfectly Shredded Chicken

To achieve perfectly shredded chicken, it’s essential to cook the chicken long enough for it to become tender. The low and slow method of the crockpot ensures that the chicken absorbs all the flavors from the BBQ sauce, resulting in a succulent and juicy texture. If you’re short on time, you can also cook the chicken on high for 3 to 4 hours, but keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

When it comes to shredding, using two forks is the traditional method, but if you want to save time, you can use a hand mixer on low speed to shred the chicken in seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it; you want shredded pieces, not mush! Once shredded, mixing the chicken back with the BBQ sauce in the crockpot will ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup spicy BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

4 hamburger buns
Coleslaw (optional)
Pickles (optional)

Mix and match your favorite toppings to create the perfect sandwich!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture onto the chicken breasts.

Cook in the Crockpot

Place the seasoned chicken in the crockpot and pour the BBQ sauce over the top. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is 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 shredded BBQ chicken on hamburger buns and top with coleslaw and pickles if desired.

Enjoy your spicy BBQ chicken sandwiches!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing it to ensure freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded chicken in freezer-safe bags. It can last for up to three months in the freezer, making it a great meal prep option.

When reheating, you can use the microwave for a quick meal, but for best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep the chicken moist, stirring occasionally until heated through. This way, you can enjoy the same tender and flavorful chicken even days after you first made it.

Pairing Beverages

To complement the spicy flavors of the BBQ chicken, consider serving refreshing beverages that can balance the heat. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade works wonderfully, as the acidity and sweetness can cut through the richness of the BBQ sauce. For adult gatherings, a crisp lager or a fruity cocktail can also enhance the dining experience.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, flavored sparkling water or a fruity mocktail can be a hit. These beverages not only refresh but also enhance the overall enjoyment of your meal, making your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches even more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour.

→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with potato 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 for up to 2 days before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free buns and ensure your BBQ sauce is also gluten-free.