Cozy Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Tender, juicy pulled chicken cooked low and slow in a tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce, perfect for cozy dinners and easy meals.
- Prep Time: 9 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 39 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 soft sandwich buns (brioche or potato rolls recommended)
- Optional toppings: pickles, coleslaw, sliced red onion, cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine barbecue sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Stir until well mixed.
- Lightly season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure it’s well covered.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender and shreds easily. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
- Using two forks or tongs, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well with the sauce. If the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered on high for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken.
- Optional: Lightly toast the sandwich buns in a toaster oven or skillet for added texture and warmth.
- Assemble sandwiches by piling pulled chicken onto buns and adding desired toppings such as coleslaw or pickles.
Notes
If sauce is too runny, simmer uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes to thicken. Save some sauce for drizzling or dipping. Use chicken thighs for juicier results. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives. You can also cook in a Dutch oven on the stove for 1.5 to 2 hours if no slow cooker is available.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One sandwich with ch
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
Keywords: slow cooker, pulled chicken, chicken sandwiches, barbecue, comfort food, easy recipe, slow cooker chicken