Easy Tender Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
A simple and delicious slow-cooked pulled chicken sandwich recipe that delivers tender, juicy chicken soaked in tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes (low) or 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes (high)
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4–6 sandwich buns, soft and slightly toasted
- Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, sliced red onions, cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Rinse 2 pounds (900 grams) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat dry. Lightly season both sides with 1 teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Lay the seasoned chicken breasts flat at the bottom of your crockpot or slow cooker.
- Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of your favorite BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken. Do not stir.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken easily shreds with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Using two forks or tongs, shred the chicken directly in the crockpot and mix gently with the sauce to coat evenly.
- Optional: Stir in an extra 1/4 cup (60 ml) BBQ sauce if you prefer saucier sandwiches.
- Lightly toast 4-6 sandwich buns until golden but still soft.
- Assemble sandwiches by piling pulled chicken on each bun and topping with coleslaw, pickles, or preferred fixings.
- Serve immediately while hot and fresh.
Notes
If chicken dries out during cooking, add a splash of chicken broth or water before shredding. Avoid lifting the crockpot lid during cooking to maintain heat. For thicker sauce, simmer BBQ sauce before adding or stir in cornstarch slurry after shredding. Thaw chicken before cooking for even results. Use ceramic inserts if possible for even heating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350400
- Fat: 68
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 23
- Protein: 30
Keywords: pulled chicken, crockpot, BBQ chicken, slow cooker, sandwiches, easy dinner, comfort food