Crockpot Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich (Print Version)

Spicy-sweet shredded chicken sandwiches made with honey, spices, and pickles on soft buns.

# Components:

→ Spices

01 - 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
02 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic salt

→ Meats

04 - 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, trimmed

→ Sweeteners

05 - 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
06 - 1 cup honey
07 - 1 tablespoon white vinegar

→ Fats

08 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

→ Bread

09 - 8 hamburger buns

→ Garnish

10 - Sliced pickles (optional)

→ Miscellaneous

11 - Non-stick cooking spray

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Coat the inside of the slow cooker vessel thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray.
02 - Whisk together cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic salt in a small mixing bowl until evenly combined.
03 - Sprinkle the prepared spice blend evenly over the chicken breasts.
04 - Place the seasoned chicken breasts firmly along the bottom of the slow cooker insert.
05 - Scatter light brown sugar over the chicken. Drizzle the honey and white vinegar evenly over the surface.
06 - Distribute the unsalted butter pieces across the chicken, then secure the lid on the slow cooker.
07 - Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 4 hours, or use high setting for 2 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
08 - Transfer the cooked chicken to a heat-safe plate and shred using meat claws or forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the cooking juices.
09 - Spoon hot shredded chicken onto hamburger buns. Top with sliced pickles if desired and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses basic pantry and fridge staples
  • Set it and forget it in the slow cooker
  • Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping leftovers
  • The spicy honey flavor is a total crowd-pleaser
02 -
  • Packed with protein without heaviness
  • A flavorful way to use up extra chicken breasts
  • Easy to double for parties and game days
03 -
  • Toast the buns just before serving for extra flavor and to prevent sogginess
  • Do not skip the vinegar as it helps balance the sweetness and cuts any heaviness