These Easy Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches are a real treat! You get tender, juicy chicken soaked in a sweet and spicy honey sauce. Perfect for a cozy meal at home!
I love how simple they are to make! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while I relax. Slap it on a bun, and dinner is served! 🍗🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they stay juicy and cook evenly in the slow cooker. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer taste or even frozen chicken—just add a bit more cooking time.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but if you need a substitute, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Keep in mind that these may change the flavor slightly, so go with what you like best.
Hot Sauce: I love Frank’s RedHot, but you can use any hot sauce you enjoy. For less heat, go with a milder sauce or even Sriracha for a different flavor kick.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a smoky flavor to the chicken. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use regular paprika. A little chipotle powder would also work well for a smoky hint!
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken is super simple, but it can be a bit tricky if you’ve never done it before. After cooking, the chicken will be tender and easy to pull apart. Here’s how I do it:
- Take the chicken out of the slow cooker and let it cool for a minute (it’s hot!).
- Using two forks, hold one piece of chicken steady with one fork while you pull pieces apart with the other.
- Make sure to shred into bite-sized pieces, then return them to the slow cooker to soak up the sauce.
This method makes shredding quick and efficient—trust me, you’ll be a pro at it in no time!
How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 to 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 4 sandwich buns or slider rolls
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, coleslaw, lettuce, or sliced onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then you can relax for 2 to 5 hours while it cooks, depending on the heat setting. Just let the slow cooker do the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. It’s best if they fit nicely without folding over.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, hot sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well blended.
3. Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
Pour the honey-hot sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Don’t worry, it will soak in as it cooks!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and super tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Coat the Chicken in Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and give it a good stir to mix it with the sauce. It’ll be mouthwatering!
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Grab your sandwich buns or slider rolls and pile on the hot honey chicken. Add any toppings you like, such as pickles, coleslaw, or lettuce.
8. Enjoy!
Once everything’s piled high, it’s time to dig into your delicious hot honey chicken sandwiches! Enjoy this sweet and spicy treat!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just be sure to add an additional hour to the cooking time on low, or about 30 minutes on high. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a milder variety. You could also add a little extra honey to balance the flavors if you find it too spicy.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover hot honey chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Just be sure to add a little splash of water or broth while reheating to keep it moist!
What Are Some Good Toppings for These Sandwiches?
There are plenty of tasty topping options! Try sliced pickles for crunch, creamy coleslaw for texture, or fresh lettuce and sliced onions for added flavor. You can get creative and mix and match according to your preferences!
