How to Make Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

By: Sarah

June 12, 2025

Three images showing variations of slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken: in a bowl, in lettuce cups, and on baked beans.

Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you ready for a recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious? Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite go-to meals: Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches. Perfect for those busy days when you want a hearty, flavorful meal without any hassle. This recipe is a game-changer for quick family dinners and is sure to become a staple in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for busy days—just set it and forget it!
  • Minimal prep time, maximum flavor.
  • Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
  • Kid-friendly and customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns (for serving)
  • Coleslaw (optional, but oh-so-good!)

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process. It’s so simple, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe!

  1. Prep the Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper—easy peasy!
  2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this delicious mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.
  3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  4. Shred and Serve: Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Stir to coat everything in that amazing sauce. Split hamburger buns, toast them, and pile the chicken high. Add a generous spoonful of coleslaw on top if you’re feeling extra fancy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to take your Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches to the next level:

  • Customize the Sauce: Love a little heat? Add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Meal Prep Magic: This recipe makes plenty, so go ahead and portion some out for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
  • Bun Appetit: For an extra-special touch, brush the buns with a little butter and grill them until golden before serving.

How to Serve

Serving suggestions to make your meal complete:

  • Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds the perfect crunch and cooling contrast to the rich, tangy chicken.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad or a batch of Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken would pair beautifully.
  • Crunchy Snacks: Serve with some crispy chips or a side of baked beans for a satisfying crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it holds up for later. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

  • Refrigerate: Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on low in the crockpot or on the stovetop until warmed through.
  • Freeze: Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or thaw quickly by submerging the bag in cold water.

And there you have it—a mouthwatering, stress-free meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to check out some of my other favorite crockpot recipes like Crockpot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Crock Pot Chicken and Rice for more easy and delicious meal ideas. Happy cooking, everyone! 🍴✨

Three images showing variations of slow cooker BBQ pulled chicken: in a bowl, in lettuce cups, and on baked beans.

Crockpot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Tender and flavorful pulled chicken cooked in a rich BBQ sauce, perfect for sandwiches.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 45 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Produce

  • 1 eggplant eggplant diced
  • 2 zucchini zucchini chopped
  • 2 yellow squash yellow squash chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper yellow bell pepper chopped
  • 1 small red onion small red onion chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves garlic cloves minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 15 oz, drained
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot.
  • In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour the sauce over the chicken, covering completely.
  • Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
  • Shred the chicken in the pot using two forks and stir to coat in the sauce.
  • Serve hot on toasted buns with a generous spoonful of coleslaw if desired.

Notes

For an extra crunch, serve with a side of coleslaw on the sandwich.
Keyword chicken
Sarah smiling warmly in her kitchen, wearing a cozy sweater

Sarah, Dinner lover, home cook, and the heart behind E-Dinner Recipes!

Driven by a passion for making mealtime easy and enjoyable, I created this blog to show that delicious dinners don’t have to be complicated. Here, you’ll find simple, flavorful recipes, practical tips, and all the inspiration you need to cook with confidence — whether you’re new to the kitchen or just looking for fresh dinner ideas.

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