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Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Sandwiches

This dish features tender, fall-apart chicken cooked slowly until it’s juicy and easy to shred. Main ingredients include boneless chicken thighs or breasts simmered with onions, garlic, and flavorful spices, then coated in BBQ sauce or broth for a rich, moist texture. The final result is a savory, shredded chicken that’s perfect for filling buns or bread, with a tender, flavorful bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs or breasts preferably thighs for juiciness
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce or chicken broth for moist cooking and flavor
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked if possible
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder for smoky heat
  • 4 buns bread or buns to serve the shredded chicken
  • optional pickles or coleslaw for added crunch and flavor contrast
  • a light olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking when toasting buns

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Forks
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken in the slow cooker, then pour over the BBQ sauce or broth, ensuring the meat is mostly covered. Add sliced onions and minced garlic on top.
  2. Cover and cook on low for about 4-5 hours, until the chicken is tender, fragrant, and easily shreds when pressed with a fork.
  3. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and transfer to a large bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, feeling it become soft and moist.
  4. Drain any excess liquid if necessary, then toss the shredded chicken with the cooking juices for extra flavor and moisture.
  5. Toast the buns until golden and slightly crispy, either in a skillet with a little olive oil or under the broiler.
  6. Pile the warm, shredded chicken onto the toasted buns, then add optional pickles or coleslaw for texture and flavor contrast.
  7. Finish by adding any desired condiments, then serve immediately, enjoying the tender, flavorful chicken with a satisfying bite.