These Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches are super easy to make and packed with flavor. The chicken cooks slowly and soaks up all that sweet and spicy goodness!
Honestly, the best part? The gooey, sticky sauce makes everything taste amazing! I love piling my hot chicken high on a soft bun—perfect for a cozy meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish because they stay juicy and shred easily. You can substitute them with chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Hot Honey: This ingredient provides the sweet and spicy kick. If you can’t find hot honey, you can make your own by mixing honey with a bit of sriracha or red pepper flakes. Adjust the heat to suit your taste!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce here for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free or homemade version. You can also opt for ketchup mixed with spices as a substitute.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy note. If you’re out, white vinegar or lemon juice can work as substitutes. They’ll still give a nice acidity without being overpowering.
How Do You Get Shredded Chicken to Be Juicy and Flavorful?
Shredding chicken in the sauce is key to achieving maximum flavor. After your cooking time is up, follow these steps:
- Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. This way, it absorbs all the sauce.
- Mix it thoroughly so every bit is coated. If you feel it’s dry, you can add a splash more of hot honey or barbecue sauce to ensure it’s juicy.
Letting the chicken sit in the sauce for a few minutes after shredding helps enhance its flavor, too!
How to Make Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Burger buns
- Dill pickles, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep time, and you’ll need to let the chicken cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. After cooking, don’t forget to add a few minutes for shredding the chicken and assembling your sandwiches. Perfect for a hands-off meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Sauce:
Begin by getting your slow cooker ready. In it, pour in the hot honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together well; this is the tasty sauce that will make your chicken delicious!
2. Add the Chicken:
Now, take your chicken breasts and place them in the slow cooker. Make sure each piece of chicken is coated in that yummy sauce we just mixed. It’s okay if they’re not fully submerged; the slow cooking will take care of it!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid. If you’re cooking on low, set the timer for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 3-4 hours. Either way, you want the chicken to be fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once your chicken is cooked and tender, take two forks and shred it right in the slow cooker. Mix the shredded chicken into the sauce until it’s all nicely combined. This step makes it super flavorful!
5. Prepare the Buns:
If you like your buns toasted, now is the time to do that! You can toast them in a pan or even in the oven while you finish up with the chicken. Crispy buns make for a perfect sandwich!
6. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Take a toasted bun and pile on the shredded hot honey chicken. Top it off with dill pickles for that extra crunch and flavor. Yum!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious hot honey chicken sandwiches with some crispy chips on the side. There’s nothing better than a sweet and spicy sandwich for a satisfying meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just add an additional 1-2 hours to the cooking time on low (or 30-60 minutes on high). Make sure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.
Can I Make My Own Hot Honey?
Absolutely! To make hot honey, simply mix equal parts honey and your favorite hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference. Allow it to sit for a bit so the flavors meld together before adding it to your slow cooker.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.
What’s the Best Way to Serve These Sandwiches?
These hot honey chicken sandwiches are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with coleslaw or potato salad for added crunch and flavor. And don’t forget some crispy chips or fries on the side for a perfect meal!
