These Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is cooked slowly in a sweet and spicy honey sauce, making each bite burst with flavor.
Perfect for busy days, just toss everything in the slow cooker and relax! I love serving mine with crunchy pickles on top for that extra zing. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to shred after cooking. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you could use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. They stay tender and juicy too!
Honey: Honey gives sweetness to the dish. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup works well as a substitute. Just keep in mind it might change the flavor slightly.
Hot Sauce: I recommend using Frank’s RedHot for its balance of heat and flavor. If you prefer less heat, opt for a milder hot sauce, or even mix in some sriracha or chili powder for a different kick.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds brightness to the dish. You can use white vinegar or lemon juice if you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand.
Sandwich Buns: Brioche or potato rolls are perfect for these sandwiches, but you can grab any sturdy bun you like. Whole wheat or gluten-free buns also work well if you need a healthier option.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking your chicken just right is key for tender bites. Using a slow cooker is great because it allows the chicken to become soft while simmering in that yummy sauce. Here are some tips to ensure you get that perfect texture:
- Cook on low for longer when possible. It gives the chicken time to absorb flavors.
- Avoid opening the lid too often. Each time you do, steam escapes and can affect cooking time.
- Once it’s done, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker with forks to soak in the sauce.
Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For Assembling the Sandwiches:
- 4 sandwich buns (such as brioche or potato rolls)
- Optional toppings: pickle slices, coleslaw, sliced jalapeños, or ranch dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of around 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker. After that, you’ll only need a few minutes to assemble the sandwiches. Worth the wait for that delicious flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Make sure they are arranged evenly for even cooking.
2. Mixing the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until the ingredients are fully combined.
3. Coating the Chicken:
Pour the honey-hot sauce mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker. Use a spoon or spatula to ensure that the chicken pieces are well coated in the sauce.
4. Cooking the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Shredding the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir the chicken into the sauce to soak up that delicious flavor.
6. Preparing the Buns:
You can toast the sandwich buns in a toaster or on a skillet if you’d like them crispy. This adds a nice touch to your sandwich!
7. Assembling the Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to assemble! Take a toasted bun, pile on the hot honey shredded chicken, and add any optional toppings like pickle slices, coleslaw, sliced jalapeños, or ranch dressing to enhance your sandwich experience.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the sandwiches warm and enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches! Perfect for a hearty meal any day of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just keep in mind that you’ll need to add extra cooking time. Frozen chicken typically takes an additional hour on low or half an hour on high to cook through. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. Simply combine them in the slow cooker and proceed with the cooking instructions as normal.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or heat gently on the stovetop until warmed through.
What Are Some Good Toppings or Serving Suggestions?
This sandwich is delicious with a variety of toppings! I recommend adding pickle slices for crunch, coleslaw for creaminess, or sliced jalapeños for heat. You can also serve it with potato chips or a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal!
