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; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Coleslaw (optional); Pickles (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the flavors of tender, spicy BBQ chicken served on a soft bun for an unforgettable meal.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-28T21:04:15.957Z

This Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and gatherings alike. The slow cooking process allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender and juicy chicken infused with a spicy BBQ sauce
Easy to prepare with minimal effort - just set it and forget it!
Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep for the week

      

The Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are an excellent choice for any gathering, whether it be a casual family dinner or a lively backyard barbecue. The delicious combination of tender chicken and zesty BBQ sauce creates an irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. These sandwiches are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize toppings to suit your guests' preferences.

Moreover, the simplicity of this recipe makes it a favorite for busy weeknights. With just a few minutes of prep, you can set the crockpot and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks. This means more quality time with your loved ones, whether you’re entertaining or winding down after a long day.

A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

This recipe takes the classic BBQ chicken sandwich to the next level with a spicy kick that elevates the taste profile. The combination of hot sauce and smoked paprika infuses the chicken with deep, smoky flavors that are both exciting and satisfying. Adjust the level of heat to your liking, making it perfect for those who enjoy a little extra spice in their meals.

In addition to the heat, the slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is not only flavorful but also incredibly tender. As it cooks, the chicken absorbs all the aromatic spices and BBQ sauce, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs beautifully with the softness of the bun.

Ideal for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is their adaptability for meal prep. Prepare a large batch over the weekend and enjoy delicious sandwiches throughout the week. Store the shredded chicken in airtight containers, and simply reheat when you’re ready to eat. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a tasty and satisfying meal ready at your fingertips.

Additionally, these sandwiches can easily be frozen for later use. Portion out the shredded chicken and freeze it in resealable bags. When you’re in need of a quick dinner, simply thaw and heat, then serve on fresh buns with your favorite toppings. It’s a convenient, no-fuss meal that fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle.

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken

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

For Serving

4 hamburger buns
Coleslaw (optional)
Pickles (optional)

Mix the ingredients well to ensure the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Add the Sauce

In a bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and hot sauce. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the crockpot.

Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

Shred and Serve

Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Mix it back into the sauce in the crockpot. Serve on hamburger buns with coleslaw and pickles if desired.

Enjoy your delicious sandwiches!

Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken

To achieve the best results with your spicy BBQ chicken, consider using high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken breasts and homemade or gourmet BBQ sauce can significantly elevate the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different BBQ sauces to find your perfect flavor blend.

Another tip is to avoid overcooking the chicken. While slow cooking is forgiving, it’s essential to monitor the time to prevent the chicken from becoming dry. Aim for the perfect balance of time and temperature to ensure the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, the options are endless. While coleslaw and pickles provide a nice crunch and acidity that balance the richness of the BBQ chicken, you can also add sliced jalapeños for extra heat or avocado for creaminess. Consider offering a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their sandwiches to their liking.

Additionally, these sandwiches pair wonderfully with side dishes like sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad. This combination makes for a well-rounded meal that is sure to please a crowd. Don’t forget to have extra napkins on hand—these sandwiches are as messy as they are delicious!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in portions, ensuring you label the containers with the date for easy reference. This way, you can enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken sandwiches even weeks after preparing them.

When it’s time to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of BBQ sauce while reheating to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. This ensures that your sandwiches taste just as good as the first time you made them!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time by about 1 hour.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and refrigerate, then cook when ready.

→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with fries, chips, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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