Name: Crockpot Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of fat; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 1 cup honey; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces; 8 hamburger buns; Sliced pickles (optional, for garnish); Non-stick cooking spray

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This Crockpot Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich is the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory. Made with tender shredded chicken cooked low and slow in a rich hot honey sauce, this easy-to-make sandwich is topped with crisp pickles and served on a soft pretzel bun for the ultimate flavor-packed bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal prep. The crockpot does all the work, infusing the chicken with bold, mouthwatering flavors from cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic salt, and honey. The result? Juicy, pull-apart chicken with just the right balance of heat and sweetness. It’s versatile, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable—add coleslaw, ranch, or keep it classic with just pickles and buns.

Crockpot Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of fat
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic salt
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1 cup honey
1 tablespoon white vinegar
¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
8 hamburger buns or pretzel buns
Sliced pickles (optional, for garnish)
Non-stick cooking spray

Directions

Prep the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, whisk together cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic salt. Evenly sprinkle the seasoning mix over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Layer Ingredients
Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top. Drizzle with honey and vinegar. Distribute the butter pieces evenly over the chicken.
Cook
Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4 hours (recommended for best texture) or high for 2 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Shred and Mix
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using meat claws or forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the flavorful juices.
Assemble
Serve hot on hamburger or pretzel buns with sliced pickles. Add coleslaw or ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 sandwiches
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours (on low) or 2 hours (on high)
Total time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Spicier Version: Add an extra ½ to 1 tablespoon of cayenne for more heat.
Milder Option: Cut the cayenne in half or replace with chili powder for a milder flavor.
BBQ Twist: Mix in a few tablespoons of barbecue sauce before serving for a smoky-sweet combo.
With Coleslaw: Top with creamy slaw for added crunch and a cooling contrast.
Slider Version: Serve on mini buns or Hawaiian rolls for party-friendly sliders.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work great and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can cook and shred the chicken a day ahead, then reheat it in the slow cooker or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes. Let the shredded chicken cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

What buns work best?

Pretzel buns, brioche, or classic hamburger buns all work well. Pretzel buns add a hearty, chewy texture that pairs nicely with the sauce.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a kick from the cayenne, but the honey balances it. Adjust the cayenne to your preference.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for about 12 minutes, then do a quick release and shred.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Use the low setting if you have time, and be sure not to overcook. The butter and honey also help keep it moist.

Can I add cheese?

Definitely—sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone would melt beautifully over the hot shredded chicken.

What sides go well with this sandwich?

Try serving with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a simple side salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker has enough space. You may need to increase cook time slightly.

Conclusion

Crockpot Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches are a deliciously simple way to bring bold flavor to your table with minimal effort. The sweet heat from the honey and cayenne makes every bite memorable, and the juicy, shredded chicken melts perfectly into a soft bun with crunchy pickles on top. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making weekday lunches, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of sweet-and-spicy comfort food.

Jessica