These Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches are a tasty treat! Tender chicken simmered in a sweet and spicy honey sauce makes each bite so flavorful and satisfying.
Pulling these sandwiches together is a breeze! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. You might even want to keep some extra napkins handy—things could get messy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect as they cook tender and juicy. If you’re looking for something different, turkey breast or chicken thighs work well too. Thighs can add more flavor and moisture!
Hot Honey: Hot honey adds a sweet and spicy kick. If you can’t find it, mix regular honey with a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can adjust the spice level based on your taste. I love using sriracha for a nice heat!
Barbecue Sauce: Your choice of barbecue sauce can change the flavor profile. A smoky or spicy sauce will give a deeper taste. If you’re avoiding processed foods, homemade barbecue sauce can fit nicely here too.
Onion: Sliced onions bring sweetness to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using green onions or shallots. Red onions can also add a nice color and sweetness.
Smoked Paprika: This is key for a smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can be used, but the smokiness will be lost. I recommend keeping it in your pantry for other dishes!
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Shreds Easily?
Shredding the chicken is a crucial step in this recipe to ensure all the flavors meld together. For the best results, follow these simple steps:
- Cook the chicken until it’s fully tender, either by using the low setting for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should easily pull apart when fully cooked.
- Use two forks to shred right in the slow cooker; this helps keep the chicken coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Mix the chicken well with the sauce to ensure it’s flavorful and juicy.
Trust me, taking your time to shred the chicken well makes a big difference in the final sandwich!
How to Make Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or honey mixed with a dash of hot sauce)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 6 hamburger buns
- Pickles for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then 6-8 hours of cooking in the slow cooker on low (or 3-4 hours on high). It’s a hands-off meal that’s perfect for a busy day while you enjoy the delicious flavors building up in your slow cooker!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will be the base for our delicious sandwich filling. Don’t worry about cutting them; they will shred perfectly after cooking!
2. Make the Sauce:
In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, hot honey (or your homemade hot honey), sliced onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will create a tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce that’s packed with flavor. Once mixed, pour this sauce evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily with forks. Just relax while the slow cooker does all the work!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take two forks and shred the chicken right in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce to ensure every piece is wonderfully coated. It will be flavorful and juicy!
5. Toast the Buns:
If you like your buns toasted, now’s the time to do it! You can simply toast them in a toaster or on a skillet until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to your sandwiches.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Serve the shredded hot honey chicken on the toasted hamburger buns. Add pickles on top if you like a little extra crunch. Enjoy your delicious hot honey chicken sandwiches with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw your chicken overnight in the refrigerator or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a couple of hours. If using frozen chicken directly, be aware that cooking time might increase by an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Hot Honey?
If you don’t have hot honey, you can easily make your own! Mix regular honey with a dash of your favorite hot sauce, such as Sriracha or Frank’s RedHot, to achieve the desired heat level. Start with a tablespoon of hot sauce and adjust to taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot honey chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop until heated through, adding a little water or chicken broth if it seems dry.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the chicken with the sauce and onions in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the fridge. Just remember to take it out and set it on the counter for about 30 minutes before cooking to help it come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
