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Tender Crockpot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

crockpot bbq chicken sandwiches - featured image

A simple and tender crockpot BBQ chicken sandwich recipe perfect for easy weeknight meals. Slow-cooked chicken in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce served on soft buns.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (smoky, mid-sweet brand recommended)
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Soft hamburger buns or brioche buns
  • Optional toppings: pickles, coleslaw, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts or thighs. Thinly slice the onion and mince garlic cloves.
  2. In a bowl, combine barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well until sugar dissolves and spices are evenly distributed.
  3. Place sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot. Lay the chicken on top, then pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, coating everything.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Alternatively, cook on high for 2-3 hours, checking texture often.
  5. Use two forks or tongs to shred the chicken directly in the crockpot, mixing well with sauce and onions.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or vinegar if desired. Stir to combine.
  7. Optionally, lightly toast sandwich buns to prevent sogginess.
  8. Assemble sandwiches by piling tender BBQ chicken onto buns and adding optional toppings like pickles or coleslaw.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess. Add a splash of chicken broth before shredding to keep chicken moist. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, crockpot chicken, slow cooker recipe, chicken sandwiches, easy weeknight meals, barbecue, comfort food