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: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoons hot sauce; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Coleslaw (optional); Pickles (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy the perfect blend of spice and sweetness with these tender and flavorful Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, made effortlessly in your slow cooker.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2025-12-28T16:46:17.854Z

This recipe for Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is a family favorite. The slow-cooked chicken becomes incredibly tender while absorbing all the flavors of the spices and BBQ sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender and juicy chicken that falls apart with a fork
Perfectly balanced spicy and sweet BBQ flavor
Convenient slow cooker preparation for easy meal planning

      

A Flavorful Experience

These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches deliver a mouthwatering experience that combines the rich, tangy flavor of BBQ sauce with a kick of heat from the added hot sauce. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken remains moist and tender, allowing the spices to infuse deeply into the meat. This results in a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying for any palate.

The addition of smoked paprika and garlic powder adds depth to the flavor profile, transforming ordinary chicken into a culinary delight. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or looking for a weeknight dinner option, these sandwiches promise a burst of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Convenient Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this recipe is its convenience. The use of a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to go about your day while the chicken cooks to perfection. This makes it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone who wants to simplify their meal prep without sacrificing taste.

With a cooking time of just six hours on low, you can easily plan your day around this meal. Simply prepare the ingredients in the morning, set your crockpot, and return home to the delightful aroma of BBQ chicken. It's an effortless way to serve a hearty, flavorful dinner.

Customization Options

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for plenty of customization. Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of hot sauce you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the hot sauce or choose a BBQ sauce with less heat. Alternatively, if you love a fiery kick, add extra hot sauce or even some cayenne pepper.

Moreover, the toppings for these sandwiches can be tailored to your liking. While coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances the heat, you might also consider adding avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches.

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

4 hamburger buns
Coleslaw (optional)
Pickles (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious sandwiches.

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken.

Cook the Chicken

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks right in the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Serve the shredded chicken on hamburger buns and top with coleslaw and pickles if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, the right accompaniments can elevate the meal even further. Consider pairing them with crispy sweet potato fries or a light salad to round out your dinner. The contrast of textures and flavors will enhance your dining experience.

For a fun twist, you can also serve these sandwiches as sliders at your next party. Simply use smaller buns and offer a variety of toppings, allowing guests to customize their own sandwiches. This interactive dining option is sure to be a hit.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them is a breeze. Place the shredded chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To maintain its moist texture, you can add a little extra BBQ sauce before sealing the container. This will keep the chicken flavorful and ready for your next meal.

Reheating is simple as well. You can warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent drying out. Enjoy it on fresh buns again, or toss it into a salad or wrap for a quick and tasty lunch.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Q: What kind of BBQ sauce works best? A: The choice of BBQ sauce is subjective. For a sweeter flavor, opt for a brown sugar-based sauce, while a vinegar-based sauce will add a tangy kick. Choose one that aligns with your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken breasts in the crockpot, but you may need to increase the cooking time.

→ What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it's sweet, smoky, or spicy, to customize the flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with fries, potato salad, or a simple green salad.