Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
This Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings. The chicken is slow-cooked to perfection, infused with zesty spices and BBQ sauce, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
- A perfect blend of spicy and sweet BBQ flavors
- Easy to prepare and ready when you are
A Flavorful Experience
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful combination of tangy and spicy flavors that create a mouthwatering dish everyone will love. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb all the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce and spices, making each bite a delicious experience. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a family meal, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy all appetites.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready to serve. The crockpot does all the work, allowing you to go about your day without worrying about constant monitoring. By the time you're ready to eat, you'll be greeted by tender, flavorful chicken that practically shreds itself.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These spicy BBQ chicken sandwiches are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. They are perfect for casual weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or even backyard barbecues. The combination of juicy chicken and the option to top with crunchy coleslaw elevates the dish, adding texture and freshness that complements the bold flavors of the BBQ sauce.
Another great aspect of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences. If you enjoy a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or choose a less spicy BBQ sauce. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to ramp up the spice with additional chili powder or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these spicy crockpot BBQ chicken sandwiches, the possibilities are endless. While traditional hamburger buns are a great choice, you might also consider serving the chicken on toasted brioche buns for an extra touch of indulgence. For a healthier twist, try wrapping the chicken in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that still packs a punch of flavor.
Adding toppings like coleslaw not only enhances the taste but also provides a lovely crunch that balances the softness of the chicken and bun. Pickles can also add a zesty kick, making your sandwiches even more flavorful. Experiment with different toppings to find the perfect combination that your family and friends will rave about!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 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 all ingredients together in your crockpot for a delicious meal.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Add BBQ Sauce
Pour the BBQ sauce over the seasoned 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 using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
Serve
Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Enjoy your delicious sandwiches!
Storage Tips
Leftover spicy BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious sandwiches throughout the week. Just reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving again.
If you want to save the chicken for a longer period, consider freezing it. Place the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your spicy crockpot BBQ chicken sandwiches, consider serving them with classic sides like potato salad or corn on the cob. These sides not only enhance the overall meal but also add a festive touch, perfect for summer gatherings or family picnics. The creamy textures of these sides balance the spiciness of the chicken beautifully.
For a refreshing beverage pairing, iced tea or lemonade works wonderfully with the bold flavors of the BBQ sauce. You could also consider a light beer or a fruity wine to match the dish's vibrancy. Whatever you choose, these pairings will elevate your meal and create a delightful dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
→ What BBQ sauce works best?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether sweet, spicy, or smoky.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken a day in advance and reheat it before serving.
→ What sides go well with these sandwiches?
Coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries are great accompaniments.
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Created by: Freya Cooper
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 BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 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)
How-To Steps
Place the chicken breasts into the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Pour the BBQ sauce over the seasoned chicken, ensuring it's well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
Serve the spicy BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 30g