Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: A Meal Prep Dream Come True
There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of BBQ chicken wafting through the house. It takes me back to summer family gatherings, where laughter and good food filled the air. My grandmother would often whip up her famous BBQ chicken, and we would gather around the table, sharing stories and creating memories. This slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwich recipe is my homage to those cherished moments, making it not just a meal, but a celebration of family and togetherness.
What Makes It Special
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy your day while the chicken cooks to perfection.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s both sweet and tangy.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, whether in sandwiches, salads, or wraps.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices and sauces to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish for everyone.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 6-8 hours | Servings: 6
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional, for topping)
Let’s Get Cooking
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Start by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
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In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
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Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
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Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
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Serve the BBQ chicken on hamburger buns, topped with coleslaw if desired.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.
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Try using different types of BBQ sauce, such as honey mustard or spicy chipotle, to switch up the flavor.
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If you have leftovers, use the chicken in tacos or on top of a salad for a quick meal.
What to Serve With It
- Sweet potato fries
- Classic potato salad
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Refreshing cucumber salad
- Ice-cold lemonade or iced tea
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so, and ensure they are fully cooked before shredding.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
The Heart of the Dish
This slow cooker BBQ chicken sandwich recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these sandwiches are sure to please. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones and creating new memories around the table.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different sauces and toppings. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and any tweaks you made. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: A Meal Prep Dream Come True
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 6 hamburger buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Sweet potato fries
- Classic potato salad
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Refreshing cucumber salad
- Ice-cold lemonade or iced tea
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken and onions, ensuring everything is coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve on hamburger buns with your choice of sides like sweet potato fries, potato salad, grilled corn, or cucumber salad.
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