This Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich is a tasty treat! Tender chicken is slow-cooked in a sweet and spicy honey sauce, making every bite super delicious.
Serve it on a soft bun, and don’t forget the pickles for crunch! I can never resist adding extra sauce—it’s a game-changer! Enjoy it with a side of fries for a perfect meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but boneless, skinless breasts work too. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast can substitute nicely!
Honey: This is the star ingredient! If you don’t have honey, try maple syrup for a different sweetness. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor a bit.
Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is my go-to, but you can swap it for any hot sauce you prefer—sriracha adds a nice kick! For a milder version, use a smaller amount or choose a milder sauce.
Buns: I love brioche for its soft texture, but any sandwich bun works! Whole wheat or gluten-free buns are great for alternatives.
Butter: If you’re avoiding dairy, try using olive oil or vegan butter instead for the same richness!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding chicken can be tricky if it’s not tender enough. To achieve perfect shreds, follow these steps:
- Cook the chicken on low heat for the full recommended time; this helps break down the fibers.
- When it’s done, use two forks—one to hold the chicken steady, and the other to pull it apart gently.
- Don’t rush this process! If it feels tough, let it cook a little longer before trying again.
Mix the shredded chicken back into the sauce for extra flavor. You’ll be amazed at how flavorful and tender it turns out!
Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For Serving:
- 4-6 sandwich buns (such as brioche or potato rolls)
- Pickle slices (optional, for topping)
- Mayonnaise or ranch dressing (optional, for spread)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and then a slow cooking period of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. After the chicken is cooked, it just takes a couple of minutes to assemble your delicious sandwiches!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the honey, hot sauce, melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk them together until everything is well blended and ready to coat the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared honey hot sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that every piece is well coated in the sweet and spicy sauce. This is where the magic begins!
3. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, the chicken should be tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker using tongs. Place it on a cutting board or a large plate. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker, stirring it into the sauce to ensure it’s all coated nicely.
5. Toast the Buns:
If you prefer a bit of crunch, lightly toast your sandwich buns in a toaster or on a skillet while the chicken cools off a bit.
6. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
Spread a layer of mayonnaise or ranch dressing on each bun if you’d like. Add a generous helping of the hot honey chicken onto the bottom half of the bun, and top it off with pickle slices for that extra crunch and flavor. Place the top bun over it.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches are ready to enjoy! Take a big bite and savor the delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Perfect for game day or a cozy dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure you cook it on high for about 5-6 hours instead of low to make sure it cooks through properly. It’s essential to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave before assembling your sandwiches for a quick meal.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Honey?
If you’re out of honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup for a different flavor. Agave nectar or brown sugar (mixed with a little water) can also work in a pinch, but they might alter the taste slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hot honey chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, then serve on fresh buns for a quick meal!
