These Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches are a perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken drenched in rich barbecue sauce, served on a soft sandwich bun. The flavors meld together beautifully, with a slight smoky flavor from the paprika and a sweet tang from the apple cider vinegar. The addition of coleslaw provides the perfect crunch and creamy contrast, taking this dish to the next level.
For a fun twist, feel free to experiment with different types of barbecue sauce to create your perfect flavor profile. Whether you like it sweet, tangy, or spicy, these sandwiches are versatile and satisfying. Great for parties, family dinners, or a quick meal that everyone will love!
Full Recipe:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup barbecue sauce
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1/4 cup chicken broth
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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4 sandwich buns
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Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Directions:
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Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
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In a small bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts.
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Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shredded.
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Once the chicken is cooked, remove the breasts and shred them using two forks.
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Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix well with the sauce.
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Serve on sandwich buns and top with coleslaw if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours (on low) | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction: Why Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches Are a Must-Try Recipe
Barbecue chicken sandwiches are a classic favorite in many households. They bring together the smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors of barbecue sauce with tender, juicy chicken, all served on soft buns. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how easily it can be prepared using a slow cooker. With minimal effort, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is how versatile it is. You can tweak the flavor profile by using different barbecue sauces, adding a little spice, or even incorporating unique ingredients like grape jelly (a popular secret ingredient in some variations). Whether you prefer your chicken shredded or left whole, this dish adapts to your tastes, and the slow cooker ensures the meat stays tender and full of flavor.
How to Prepare Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches in the Crock Pot
Making barbecue chicken sandwiches in the slow cooker is incredibly easy. Start by placing boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the Crock-Pot, add a medium-sized onion, and pour your choice of barbecue sauce over the top. Once everything is in place, you simply set the slow cooker on low for 8 hours, and the magic happens as the chicken cooks down into tender, shredded goodness.
One of the most popular variations is to shred the chicken after it’s cooked, letting it soak up all the flavors of the barbecue sauce. After shredding, the mixture is served on hamburger buns and topped with extra ingredients like coleslaw, if desired. This meal requires very little attention during the cooking process, making it the perfect option for a hands-off dinner.
The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker for Barbecue Chicken
There are numerous benefits to using a slow cooker, especially for recipes like this one. First and foremost, it allows for a hands-off approach to cooking. Simply add the ingredients to the pot, set the timer, and go about your day without needing to constantly monitor the stove. This is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to come home to a hot, ready meal without the hassle.
Additionally, the slow cooking process enhances the flavors of the dish. As the chicken simmers for hours, it soaks in all the tangy and savory elements of the barbecue sauce, making the meat more flavorful and juicy. Slow cooking also ensures that even lean cuts of chicken, like boneless, skinless breasts, remain moist and tender.
Experiment with Variations: Tailoring the Recipe to Your Taste
One of the best things about barbecue chicken sandwiches is how easily they can be customized. While this recipe calls for classic barbecue sauce, you can experiment with different flavors by choosing a sweet, tangy, or spicy sauce. Many people swear by using Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce, known for its rich and balanced flavor. However, don’t be afraid to try other varieties, like honey barbecue or smoky chipotle, depending on your personal preferences.
For a fun twist, try adding a spoonful of grape jelly or apricot jam to the barbecue sauce. The sweetness of the jelly enhances the sauce’s flavor and creates a unique twist on the traditional barbecue chicken. Additionally, some variations call for adding liquid smoke to the sauce for a more pronounced smoky flavor, making this recipe adaptable to your taste.
If you prefer a bit of crunch, coleslaw is the perfect topping to add a fresh, creamy contrast to the tender chicken. You can make your own homemade coleslaw or purchase pre-made versions for convenience.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well with Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches
While barbecue chicken sandwiches are delicious on their own, they can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Some of the best sides to serve with these sandwiches include crispy potato chips, a fresh garden salad, or even baked beans for a more traditional barbecue feel. Coleslaw is a natural side, as it complements the sandwich with its crunch and tang.
For a healthier option, consider serving the sandwiches with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots or broccoli, or a simple side of steamed green beans. The freshness of these vegetables helps balance out the richness of the barbecue chicken.
Tips for Perfecting Your Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. First, make sure you use enough barbecue sauce to fully cover the chicken. If you’re unsure, start with half a jar and adjust as needed during cooking. You can always add more if you feel the chicken needs more flavor.
Another tip is to resist the temptation to open the slow cooker during the cooking process. While it may be tempting to check on the chicken, the slow cooker works best when it’s left undisturbed. Opening the lid releases heat and can cause the cooking time to vary, leading to less-than-ideal results.
If you like your chicken with a bit of a crispy edge, you can finish it off in the oven. Once the chicken is cooked and shredded, spread it on a baking sheet, drizzle with additional barbecue sauce, and broil for a few minutes to give it a slight caramelized finish.
Making Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches for a Crowd
This recipe is easily scalable, making it a great option for feeding a large group. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a game-day party, or a casual barbecue, you can double or triple the recipe to make enough for everyone. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring that the chicken cooks through and stays tender.
To make serving easier, consider offering a variety of toppings, such as pickles, jalapeños, or even cheese slices. This allows guests to customize their sandwiches to their liking.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Summer
Barbecue chicken sandwiches are a go-to meal during the summer months. They require little effort, and the slow cooker ensures you don’t have to turn on the stove, which is perfect for keeping the kitchen cool on hot days. This recipe is also great for meal prepping. You can prepare it in advance, and the leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld.
Additionally, these sandwiches are perfect for casual outdoor meals. Whether you’re serving them at a picnic, barbecue, or tailgate, they’re easy to eat with your hands and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches
Barbecue chicken sandwiches in the slow cooker are the epitome of convenience and flavor. With minimal ingredients and a slow cooking method, you can create a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.
The versatility of the recipe means you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients, tailoring it to suit your taste. And with the slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Give this easy barbecue chicken sandwich recipe a try and make it a regular part of your meal rotation.
These sandwiches are more than just a meal—they’re a celebration of the simple joys of cooking, making them a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.