Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only delicious but incredibly convenient. With the help of your slow cooker, the chicken becomes incredibly tender and infused with rich BBQ flavors without much effort on your part. You can prepare it in the morning, let it cook all day, and have a satisfying meal ready to serve by dinner time. The combination of juicy, flavorful chicken and tangy BBQ sauce served on soft sandwich buns is simple yet irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite sides.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 sandwich buns
• Optional: coleslaw for topping

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re coated evenly.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
6. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it into the remaining sauce.
7. Serve the pulled chicken on sandwich buns and top with optional coleslaw if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total Time: 6-7 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)

Variations

• Spicy Pulled Chicken: Add some heat by stirring in a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
• Smokier Flavor: Use a smoky BBQ sauce for an even richer flavor or add a bit of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier result, substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts.
• Buns Alternatives: Use slider buns, whole wheat buns, or even lettuce wraps for a lower-carb option.
• Toppings: Try adding pickles, sliced red onions, or cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pulled chicken in a pan on the stove over medium heat, adding a little extra BBQ sauce if needed. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through, for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you will need to cook the chicken on the low setting for 7-8 hours or until fully cooked and tender.

Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?

Yes! You can make this in the Instant Pot by cooking the chicken on the “Poultry” setting for 15-20 minutes. Then, shred the chicken and mix it with the BBQ sauce.

What kind of BBQ sauce is best for pulled chicken?

Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe, whether it’s a tangy, sweet, smoky, or spicy variety. If you’re unsure, a classic tangy BBQ sauce works well!

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can double the ingredients, but make sure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the increased volume. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add extra juiciness to the dish, and they work great in slow cooker recipes.

Can I freeze the pulled chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the pulled chicken for up to 3 months. Just place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and reheat it when ready to serve.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free buns or serve the pulled chicken in lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! You can use pork, turkey, or even beef for a different twist on the recipe. Just adjust the cooking times based on the meat.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped onions, bell peppers, or carrots for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to check that they are tender before serving.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. This recipe is simple to prepare, and the slow cooking process yields tender, flavorful chicken that pairs wonderfully with soft sandwich buns. Whether for a weeknight dinner, party, or meal prep, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and variations to make it your own!