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

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Kitchen

Enjoy tender, juicy chicken infused with spicy barbecue sauce, perfect for sandwiches.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2025-12-28T21:13:08.716Z

This Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwich recipe is a family favorite, combining the ease of slow cooking with a delightful kick of spice. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, these sandwiches will be a hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender, slow-cooked chicken that falls apart with a fork
Spicy barbecue sauce that packs a flavorful punch
Easy preparation, perfect for busy days or meal prep

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm sandwich filled with tender, flavorful chicken. These Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches embody the essence of comfort food, making them an ideal choice for family dinners, game day gatherings, or potluck parties. The combination of juicy chicken and zesty barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

Moreover, the slow-cooking method ensures that the chicken remains moist and tender, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that satisfies cravings while keeping the preparation simple and hassle-free.

Customizable for Every Palate

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste by modifying the amount of hot sauce you add. Whether you're a fan of mild flavors or prefer a fiery kick, this recipe can be tailored to your preferences, making it suitable for all ages and spice tolerances.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different toppings and sides. While coleslaw and pickles add a nice crunch and tang, you can also include sliced jalapeños, avocado, or even cheese for extra flavor. Let your creativity shine as you make these sandwiches your own!

Meal Prep Made Easy

For those busy weeknights or upcoming meal prep sessions, this recipe is a lifesaver. You can prepare a large batch of spicy BBQ chicken in the crockpot and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. This means you can enjoy delicious sandwiches without the stress of last-minute cooking.

Simply reheat the chicken when you're ready to eat, assemble your sandwiches, and you have a satisfying meal that takes mere minutes to put together. It's a fantastic way to ensure you have nutritious, home-cooked meals ready to go, even on the busiest of days.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

To Serve

4 hamburger buns
Coleslaw (optional)
Pickles (optional)

Combine all ingredients in the crockpot for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.

Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, mixing it with the sauce.

Serve the Sandwiches

Spoon the spicy BBQ chicken onto hamburger buns. Top with coleslaw and pickles if desired.

Enjoy your delicious sandwiches!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add extra hot sauce to the barbecue sauce. You can also switch up the toppings with cheese or jalapeños.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the most tender chicken, make sure to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they are ideal for slow cooking. This cut allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the spices and BBQ sauce without becoming dry. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Don't skip the seasoning! The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika not only enhance the taste but also bring depth to the dish. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, as a little bit of additional salt or pepper can elevate the overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These BBQ chicken sandwiches pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with classic options like potato chips, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad. The contrast of textures and flavors will provide a well-rounded meal that satisfies every appetite.

For a fun twist, try serving the chicken over a bed of rice or in a wrap for a different take on the classic sandwich. This gives you even more options to enjoy the delicious, spicy BBQ chicken in ways that fit your mood or occasion.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover spicy BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the chicken into individual servings and freeze for up to three months. This makes it easy to grab a meal on-the-go or to whip up a quick sandwich.

When reheating, gently warm the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If the chicken seems a bit dry, adding a splash of extra barbecue sauce while reheating can help restore its moisture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time to 7-8 hours on low.

→ 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 in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure that the barbecue sauce and buns are gluten-free.