Incredible Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Discover the ultimate slow cooker pulled chicken sandwiches recipe! This easy, hands-off recipe features tender, shredded chicken cooked in a sweet and spicy BBQ sauce, topped with a fresh, tangy slaw. Perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or casual gatherings, these pulled chicken sandwiches are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both flavorful and simple to prepare. Serve on whole grain or gluten-free buns for a wholesome meal everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner or meal prep idea, this slow cooker pulled chicken sandwich recipe is your go-to!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ cup low-sugar BBQ sauce (I recommend Stubb’s Spicy BBQ Sauce)
• ¼ cup water or chicken broth
• ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Slaw:

• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup shredded red cabbage
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
• Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• 4 whole grain or gluten-free seedy hamburger buns

Instructions

1. In the base of your slow cooker, combine ketchup, BBQ sauce, water (or chicken broth), Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir to mix.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, turning them to coat in the sauce. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
3. Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce. Keep the slow cooker on the warm setting if you’re not ready to serve immediately.
4. While the chicken cooks, prepare the slaw. In a medium bowl, combine shredded carrots, cabbage, cilantro, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside to marinate until ready to serve.
5. To serve, use a slotted spoon to add the pulled chicken to buns, then top with the slaw. Add the top bun to complete the sandwich. Optionally, add a slice of cheese if desired.

Serves 4.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These slow cooker pulled chicken sandwiches are incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The tender, shredded chicken in a sweet, tangy BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the crunchy, slightly sweet slaw, creating a satisfying combination of textures. The best part? It’s a hands-off meal, thanks to the slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days or casual gatherings.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Tips:
  • Be sure to coat the chicken thoroughly in the sauce before cooking to ensure even flavor.
  • For a deeper flavor, let the chicken cook on low for the full 7 hours.
• Variations:
  • Slaw Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of red cabbage, you can substitute with green cabbage or even add some thinly sliced apples for a touch of sweetness.
  • Spicy Kick: For extra heat, try adding a few dashes of hot sauce or a chopped jalapeño to the slaw or BBQ sauce.
  • Crockpot Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute them for thighs, though the texture may be slightly different.
• Substitutions:
  • BBQ Sauce: If you’re avoiding sugar, opt for a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
  • Buns: Use any type of gluten-free or whole-grain buns you prefer. Alternatively, serve the pulled chicken on a salad for a low-carb option.
  • Maple Syrup: You can swap maple syrup with honey or agave if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! The pulled chicken can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave and serve with freshly prepared slaw and buns.

Can I freeze the pulled chicken? Absolutely! Let the pulled chicken cool, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw and reheat in the slow cooker or on the stove.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to dry out a bit more than thighs, so be sure to monitor them closely while cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These pulled chicken sandwiches are perfect for a casual dinner, family gathering, or game day. Serve them alongside crispy fries, a light salad, or even sweet potato wedges. If you prefer a healthier option, try serving the pulled chicken over a bed of greens or wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb alternative.