Get ready to fall in love with these Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches, a recipe that’s bound to become your new go-to for easy weeknight comfort food. Tender, shredded chicken thighs soak up a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, then pile high on buttery brioche buns with crisp slaw and crunchy pickles. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, turning simple ingredients into a crave-worthy meal that’s just as perfect for a laid-back family dinner as it is for game day. If you’re looking for a sandwich that balances irresistible heat, tang, and a hint of sweetness, this one checks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed how just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients transform into something truly special. Each component of these Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches brings a unique flavor, texture, or pop of color, making every bite both delicious and memorable.
- Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs stay juicy and flavorful during slow cooking, making them ideal for shredding.
- Hot honey: This spicy-sweet condiment infuses the chicken with bold flavor; mix regular honey with your favorite hot sauce if you can’t find it pre-made.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and tang, balancing the honey’s sweetness and the sauce’s heat.
- Soy sauce: Brings savory depth and a hint of umami to the sauce, rounding out the flavors.
- Dijon mustard: Lends a gentle, zippy sharpness that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
- Garlic powder: For that irresistible savory backbone in every bite.
- Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a gorgeous color to the finished chicken.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Olive oil: Helps the sauce coat the chicken smoothly and keeps it moist.
- Brioche buns: Buttery, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to hold up to the saucy chicken.
- Coleslaw mix: Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
- Mayonnaise: Makes the slaw creamy and helps all the flavors meld together.
- Apple cider vinegar (for slaw): Brightens up the slaw and ties it back to the flavors in the chicken.
- Salt and pepper (for slaw): Simple but crucial for seasoning your slaw just right.
- Optional sliced pickles: For that tangy, crunchy finishing touch that takes these sandwiches over the top.
How to Make Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
Step 1: Make the Hot Honey Sauce
Start by whisking together the hot honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil directly in your slow cooker. This means less mess and more flavor, as the chicken will be cooking right in this robust, sweet-heat sauce.
Step 2: Add the Chicken Thighs
Nestle the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the sauce, turning them a few times so every piece is thoroughly coated. This helps the flavors seep into every inch of the meat as it cooks low and slow.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 7 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken will become incredibly tender and juicy, absorbing all the bold flavors from the sauce. No need to peek or stir during cooking—just let the magic happen!
Step 4: Prepare the Coleslaw
While the chicken is cooking, whip up the slaw by combining the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Give it a good toss so the veggies are evenly coated. The slaw adds a cool, crunchy bite that perfectly contrasts the spicy chicken.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is done, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded chicken into the sauce, making sure it’s thoroughly coated and juicy. This is what makes every sandwich so wonderfully saucy.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast your brioche buns for extra flavor and structure, then generously pile on the hot honey chicken. Top with a scoop of slaw and, if you like, some sliced pickles for a tangy crunch. Serve immediately and get ready for rave reviews!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, can add a pop of color and freshness. Don’t skip the pickles if you love a little extra tang—they balance out the heat and richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches with sweet potato fries, classic potato chips, or a crisp green salad. Anything with a little crunch or a hint of sweetness will complement the spicy, saucy chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the sandwiches slider-style on mini brioche buns for parties, or offer a DIY sandwich bar with extra toppings like jalapeños, shredded lettuce, or even a drizzle of extra hot honey. It’s a crowd-pleaser for gatherings and game days!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover hot honey chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the slaw and buns separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the shredded chicken (without slaw) for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you want to enjoy another round of Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches.
Reheating
Gently reheat the chicken in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist. Alternatively, warm it in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Assemble fresh sandwiches with new slaw and buns for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, though they may be a little less juicy than thighs. Just watch the cooking time, as breasts can dry out if overcooked.
How spicy are these sandwiches?
The heat level depends on your hot honey or how much hot sauce you add. For extra heat, stir in a bit more hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Can I make Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook and shred the chicken a day ahead, then quickly reheat and assemble the sandwiches just before serving. The flavors deepen overnight, making them even better.
What kind of hot honey should I use?
Any brand of hot honey works, or you can easily make your own by stirring 1–2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce into regular honey. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to match your spice preference.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Definitely! Just swap the brioche buns for your favorite gluten-free buns and double-check that your soy sauce is gluten-free. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that’s guaranteed to impress with minimal effort, these Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches are the answer. Let the slow cooker do the work while you get ready for a sandwich bursting with bold, sweet-spicy flavor and satisfying crunch. Give this recipe a try—you’ll want it on repeat all year long!
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Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Slow Cooker Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches feature tender, juicy shredded chicken thighs cooked in a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. Served on toasted brioche buns with a crisp, tangy coleslaw and optional pickles, they make for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup hot honey (or regular honey mixed with 1–2 tablespoons hot sauce)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Slaw
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve
- 4 brioche buns
- Optional: sliced pickles
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a slow cooker, combine the hot honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir well to blend all ingredients into a smooth sauce.
- Add Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into the slow cooker and toss them in the sauce to coat evenly. Make sure each piece is well covered for maximum flavor infusion.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and shreddable when done.
- Prepare the Slaw: While the chicken is cooking, mix the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks, stirring it to coat fully in the hot honey sauce.
- Toast the Buns: Toast the brioche buns lightly if desired, to add texture and warmth to each sandwich.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Pile the shredded hot honey chicken generously onto the bottom half of each bun, top with a portion of slaw, add optional pickles if using, and cover with the bun tops.
- Serve: Serve the sandwiches immediately while warm, paired with your favorite side such as sweet potato fries or a simple green salad.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs, but thighs provide more tenderness and flavor.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- To reduce sodium, consider using low-sodium soy sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
