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Tender Slow Cooker Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

slow cooker pulled bbq chicken sandwiches - featured image

A simple and foolproof slow cooker recipe for tender, juicy pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches that are perfect for quick dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (recommend smoky, tangy like Sweet Baby Ray’s)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
  • 6 burger buns (brioche or potato rolls recommended)
  • Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey (if using), onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  3. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, coating each piece thoroughly. Avoid stirring.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
  6. Remove chicken breasts carefully and shred with two forks.
  7. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well to mix with the sauce. Let soak on warm for 15-20 minutes.
  8. Toast burger buns lightly to add texture and prevent sogginess.
  9. Assemble sandwiches by spooning pulled BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each bun, topping with coleslaw or pickles if desired, then closing with the top bun.

Notes

If sauce is too thick after shredding, add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir gently. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid frequently to maintain heat. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or serve over lettuce wraps. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts with adjusted cooking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, pulled chicken, BBQ chicken, sandwiches, easy dinner, comfort food, crockpot recipe