Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.

Noelle Chambers

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:28:15.769Z

This recipe for Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches combines tender, flavorful chicken with a zesty BBQ sauce, making it the perfect dish for a family dinner or a game day feast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
  • Bold and spicy BBQ flavor that packs a punch
  • Perfectly paired with your favorite toppings

Perfect for Any Occasion

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are an excellent choice for various occasions, whether it's a casual family dinner, a game day gathering, or even a summer barbecue. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. You can set everything up in the morning, and by dinner time, you'll have a mouth-watering dish ready to serve. The versatility of this recipe means it can be enjoyed year-round, making it a staple in your meal rotation.

One of the best things about these sandwiches is their adaptability. You can customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste. This makes them appealing to both spicy food lovers and those who prefer milder flavors. Additionally, you can experiment with different BBQ sauces, from tangy to smoky, to create your unique flavor profile.

Easy Preparation and Cleanup

Using a crockpot for this recipe not only simplifies the cooking process but also allows for tender, flavorful chicken that’s easy to shred. You can throw all the ingredients in the pot, set it, and forget it! This hands-off cooking method is perfect for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Cleanup is a breeze as well. With only a few ingredients and one cooking vessel, you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious sandwiches with family and friends. This recipe is not only about great taste but also about convenience, making it an ideal choice for any culinary skill level.

Endless Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, the possibilities are endless. You can start with classic toppings like coleslaw and pickles, which add crunch and balance the spice. For a twist, try adding jalapeños for an extra kick or avocado for creaminess. You can also switch up the buns by using whole grain or gluten-free options to cater to different dietary preferences.

Don’t forget about side dishes! These sandwiches pair wonderfully with classic sides like potato chips, baked beans, or a fresh garden salad. You can even serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for those who like a little extra flavor with their meal. The versatility of this dish allows you to get creative and tailor it to your guests' tastes.

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Coleslaw (optional)
  • Pickles (optional)

Mix and match your favorite toppings to make these sandwiches your own!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Add Sauces

Pour the BBQ sauce and hot sauce over the 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 with two forks and mix it well 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!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the chicken even tastier the next day. You can reheat the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of BBQ sauce to keep it moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded BBQ chicken. Divide it into individual portions and store in freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

Pairing Beverages

To complement the bold flavors of Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, consider serving a refreshing beverage. A classic choice is iced tea, which can balance the heat with its coolness. If you prefer something with a kick, a craft beer with citrusy or hoppy notes can enhance the BBQ experience.

For those looking for non-alcoholic options, try a homemade lemonade or a sparkling soda. These drinks will not only quench your thirst but also add a festive touch to your meal, making it even more enjoyable for guests of all ages.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

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

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce; a smoky or spicy variety works great for this recipe.

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute with boneless thighs or even pulled pork for a different flavor profile.

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Spicy Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration6 hours
Overall Time6 hours 15 minutes

Created by: Noelle Chambers

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the BBQ Chicken

  1. 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
  3. 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  4. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  5. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  1. 4 hamburger buns
  2. Coleslaw (optional)
  3. Pickles (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 02

Pour the BBQ sauce and hot sauce over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it well with the sauce.

Step 05

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

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 34g