why make this recipe
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are not just tasty; they are also easy to make. Using a slow cooker allows the chicken to become tender and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, everyone loves BBQ chicken, making it a hit for family dinners or gatherings.
how to make Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients :
- 2 1/2 lbs chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce
- 1/2 sweet onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 buns or sandwich rolls
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3 cups coleslaw
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 chipotle pepper, diced in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, brown sugar, and dried oregano until combined.
- Add the sliced onions to the slow cooker, then place the chicken on top. Sprinkle the seasoned mixture over the chicken, and pour the BBQ sauce over everything.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours.
- In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, diced chipotle pepper, and lime juice. Whisk until combined and set aside.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it in the sauce.
- Spread the softened butter over the buns. Heat a skillet or griddle to medium-high heat, then add the buns butter side down into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- For the Slaw: In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, chipotle pepper, and lime juice and mix until combined. In a medium bowl, add the cabbage, cilantro, and the dressing mixture, stirring until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the BBQ chicken on the toasted buns with slaw on top. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwiches!
how to serve Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwich
These sandwiches are best served warm. Place the shredded BBQ chicken on the toasted buns and top with the chipotle slaw. You can also offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who want more flavor. Pair these sandwiches with potato chips or a side salad for a complete meal.
how to store Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken on the stove or in the microwave. If you have extra slaw, store it separately to keep it fresh and crunchy.
tips to make Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwich
- Use homemade BBQ sauce for a personalized taste.
- For a spicier kick, add more chipotle peppers.
- Make this recipe a day ahead; the flavors get even better after sitting overnight.
variation
You can try different meats, like pulled pork or turkey, instead of chicken. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using jackfruit to create a BBQ “pulled” effect.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it may require a longer cooking time. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
2. How do I make my BBQ sauce better?
You can enhance your BBQ sauce by adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat or honey for sweetness.
3. Can I add other toppings to the sandwiches?
Absolutely! Pickles, jalapeños, or cheese are great additions to add flavor and texture to your sandwiches.
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 1/2 lbs chicken breasts or tenders Can use frozen chicken, but may require longer cooking time.
- 1 1/2 cups BBQ sauce Homemade BBQ sauce can enhance flavor.
- 1/2 sweet onion sliced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 pieces buns or sandwich rolls
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
For the Slaw
- 3 cups coleslaw
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 chipotle pepper diced in adobo sauce Add more for extra spiciness.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- to taste Salt and pepper Add according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, brown sugar, and dried oregano until combined.
- Add the sliced onions to the slow cooker, then place the chicken on top. Sprinkle the seasoned mixture over the chicken, and pour the BBQ sauce over everything.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 5-6 hours.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it in the sauce.
Making Slaw
- In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, diced chipotle pepper, and lime juice. Whisk until combined and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, add the coleslaw mix and dressing mixture, stirring until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Toasting Buns
- Spread the softened butter over the buns. Heat a skillet or griddle to medium-high heat, then add the buns butter side down into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
Serving
- Serve the BBQ chicken on the toasted buns with slaw on top. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwiches!