Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy a deliciously spicy twist on classic BBQ chicken sandwiches, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
This Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches recipe is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken that can be enjoyed on a bun or on its own!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender, flavorful chicken that pulls apart easily
- Spicy BBQ sauce that packs a punch
- Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort
The Perfect Comfort Food
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are the epitome of comfort food. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a zesty BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, these sandwiches deliver on flavor and satisfaction. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is infused with spices, making each bite a delicious treat.
This recipe not only simplifies meal preparation but also allows you to spend more time with your guests or family. Just set your crockpot and let it do the work while you focus on enjoying the moment. The aromatic spices will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to the table as the delicious scents waft through the air.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different BBQ sauces; try a tangy mustard-based sauce or a sweet honey variant to change the flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or opt for a BBQ sauce labeled as 'mild'.
Serving suggestions are also varied. While classic hamburger buns are a staple, consider using slider buns for smaller portions or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños for extra heat, or creamy avocado slices for a cool contrast. The possibilities are endless, making these sandwiches a great choice for any occasion.
Easy Meal Prep and Storage
This recipe is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts. You can easily double the ingredients and have leftovers for days. After cooking, simply store any unused chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist, and enjoy quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
For long-term storage, consider freezing the shredded chicken. Portion it into freezer-safe bags and store it for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed. This ensures you have a delicious, homemade meal readily available for busy days.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spicy BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 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 placing them in the crockpot.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, mix together the spicy BBQ sauce, chicken broth, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Cook the Chicken
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Assemble the Sandwiches
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot to soak up more of the sauce. Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns and top with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Enjoy your deliciously spicy sandwiches!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, consider serving them alongside classic sides like potato salad or baked beans. These accompaniments not only complement the flavors of the sandwiches but also enhance the overall dining experience. You can even set up a DIY sandwich bar with various toppings for an interactive meal that guests will love.
For a refreshing touch, coleslaw is a fantastic option. The creamy, crunchy texture of coleslaw balances the spiciness of the BBQ chicken, providing a satisfying contrast. You can make your own coleslaw or buy a pre-made version to save time. Adding pickles or jalapeños will give an extra kick, making each bite even more delightful.
Tips for the Best Results
To achieve the best results with your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken, always start with high-quality chicken breasts. Fresh, organic chicken tends to be juicier and more flavorful. Additionally, don't skip the seasoning step; properly seasoning the chicken before cooking enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Another tip is to keep the lid closed during cooking. This helps retain moisture and ensures the chicken remains tender. If you find that the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can uncover the crockpot for the last 30 minutes to allow it to thicken up. This will give your sandwiches a rich and hearty flavor that everyone will enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
→ 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 a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
→ Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a nice level of heat from the spicy BBQ sauce and chili powder. You can adjust the spices to your preference.
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Enjoy a deliciously spicy twist on classic BBQ chicken sandwiches, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
Created by: Phoebe Turner
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spicy BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 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 a bowl, mix together the spicy BBQ sauce, chicken broth, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Cover the crockpot 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 with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot to soak up more of the sauce. Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns and top with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 30g