Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these will become tender and easy to shred after slow cooking.

Bbq sauce: Adds a rich, smoky flavor to the chicken. Choose your favorite brand or make your own.

Chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and adds depth to the sauce. Opt for low-sodium if you prefer to control the salt level.

Burger buns: Soft and sturdy buns that will hold the shredded chicken and sauce without falling apart.

To ensure the chicken breasts absorb maximum flavor, consider searing them in a hot pan for a few minutes on each side before placing them in the slow cooker. This step adds a layer of caramelization that enhances the overall taste of the BBQ sauce. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid of the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some of the chicken broth to evaporate.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good alternative for slow-cooked dishes.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu can be used as it absorbs the BBQ sauce well and provides a similar protein content.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce offers a sweet and savory flavor profile that can complement the chicken similarly to BBQ sauce.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade tomato sauce: A homemade tomato sauce mixed with some brown sugar and vinegar can mimic the tangy and sweet flavors of BBQ sauce.

• chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar liquid base and can be used for a vegetarian version of the dish.

• chicken broth - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth can add a richer, deeper flavor to the dish, though it will slightly alter the taste.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer a healthier alternative with more fiber and nutrients.

• burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps can be used to hold the BBQ chicken, providing a fresh and crunchy texture.

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bbq sauce watery.
• Transfer the shredded bbq chicken into an airtight container. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the bbq chicken within 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, place the cooled bbq chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the bbq chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the bbq chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or bbq sauce to keep it moist.
• Stir occasionally until the bbq chicken is heated through.
• Serve the reheated bbq chicken on fresh burger buns and enjoy your delicious meal!

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover bbq chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is warmed through. Toast the burger buns separately in the oven for the last 5 minutes to get them nice and crispy.

• Stovetop Method: In a skillet, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the leftover bbq chicken. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is hot and the sauce is bubbling. This method helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

• Microwave Method: Place the leftover bbq chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is heated evenly. Toast the burger buns separately in a toaster or under the broiler for a minute or two.

• Slow Cooker Method: If you have a bit more time, you can reheat the bbq chicken in the slow cooker. Add the chicken back to the slow cooker with a splash of chicken broth or water. Set the slow cooker to low and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly warmed. This method is great for maintaining the original texture and flavor.

• Steaming Method: Place the leftover bbq chicken in a heatproof dish and set it in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps keep the chicken moist and tender.

• Slow cooker: Used to cook the chicken breasts slowly, ensuring they become tender and absorb the flavors of the BBQ sauce and chicken broth.

• Measuring cup: Essential for accurately measuring the BBQ sauce and chicken broth to ensure the right balance of flavors.

• Forks: Used to shred the cooked chicken breasts into smaller pieces, making it easier to mix with the sauce and serve on the buns.

• Burger buns: The base for the BBQ chicken, providing a soft and slightly sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

• Tongs: Helpful for placing the shredded chicken onto the burger buns without making a mess.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for shredding the chicken if you prefer to do it outside of the slow cooker.

• Knife: Useful for any additional prep work, such as trimming the chicken breasts before cooking.

• Serving spoon: Handy for mixing the shredded chicken with the sauce and for serving the mixture onto the buns.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken breasts. Just heat them in the slow cooker with the bbq sauce and chicken broth for 30 minutes.

Shred with a mixer: Instead of using forks, use a hand mixer to quickly shred the chicken.

Store-bought buns: Opt for store-bought burger buns to save time on baking.

Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra bbq chicken for future meals.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the bbq sauce and chicken broth the night before to streamline the process.