Crockpot Hot Honey Sandwiches
When I worked for the Palm Beach County School Board, summers were always my favorite time of year because I got to spend every day with my kids. I have two sons, and let me tell you—they ate a lot back then, and they still eat a lot now! During those summer months, I was always creating easy, family-friendly meals that were simple to prep but still packed with flavor. I needed recipes that my boys would happily devour, but that my ex-husband and I would enjoy just as much.
That’s exactly how these Crockpot Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches came to be. They’re incredibly easy to make, loaded with flavor, and perfect for busy summer days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Don’t worry about the spice level either. They do have a little kick, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper depending on your family’s preference.
Now, if you follow this recipe exactly as written—with the creamy coleslaw, tangy dill pickle slices, and a buttery toasted bun—you’re going to get the perfect bite every single time. Sweet, savory, a little spicy, crunchy, creamy… it’s everything you want in a sandwich.
If you’re looking for more easy slow cooker dinners, make sure you also check out my Crockpot Lemony Chicken and Potatoes, Crockpot Steak and Gravy, and Crockpot Crack Chicken. They’re some of the most popular crockpot recipes on my site and perfect for those busy days when you need dinner to practically make itself.
Hungry for more? Get my recipes first.
The dinners my family asks for on repeat, sent to you first.
Unsubscribe anytime, no hard feelings.
Are you ready? Let’s make it!
This is exactly how it should look before you turn that crockpot on!
FAQ
Absolutely! The recipe uses 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper for a medium kick, but you can easily reduce it to 1/4 teaspoon for a much milder version or 0 for a non spicy bite. The honey, coleslaw, and pickles also help balance the heat.
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe and often turn out even juicier. Cook them the same way and shred once they’re tender.
My favorite combination is creamy coleslaw, dill pickle slices, and a buttery toasted bun. You could also add pepper jack cheese, crispy bacon, pickled jalapeños, or extra hot honey for even more flavor.
Yes, Absolutely! You can cook it at low for about 5-6 hours or until it easily shreds.
Adjusting the Heat Level
This recipe uses 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper, which gives the chicken a noticeable kick while still balancing beautifully with the sweetness of the honey and the cool, creamy coleslaw. If you’d like to customize the spice level, use this simple guide:
Mild Heat
Perfect for kids or anyone sensitive to spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Medium Heat
A little warmth with just a gentle kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Medium-Hot Heat
The sweet spot for most spice lovers.
- 3/4 tsp cayenne pepper (as written)
Hot
For those who enjoy a good amount of heat.
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
Extra Hot
Bring the heat!
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
Melissa’s Tip
Remember that the creamy coleslaw, dill pickles, and buttery bun help balance the spice. If you’re unsure, start with less cayenne—you can always add a little hot sauce to your sandwich, but you can’t take the cayenne out once it’s in the crockpot!
Crock Pot Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Get your trusty crockpot ready and add in the 3 large chicken breasts – they’re the stars of this show!
- Sprinkle in the cayenne pepper, garlic salt, and smoked paprika to give the chicken that irresistible kick.
- Now, here comes the touch of sweetness! Add those two heavenly tablespoons of brown sugar.
- It’s time to get sticky – pour in 3/4 cup of honey and 1/4 cup of hot honey to balance out the heat with some delicious sweetness.
- For that tangy twist, mix in a tablespoon of white vinegar.
- Let’s not forget about the rich, buttery goodness! Add half a stick of sliced butter to elevate the flavor profile.
- Cooking Time: Set your crockpot to high and let the magic happen for about 3-4 hours. The chicken will become tender, juicy, and cooked to perfection.
- Shredding the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, break it up in the crockpot. For that extra touch, grab your electric mixer and blend the chicken until it’s beautifully shredded and soaked in the mouthwatering juices.
- Take those delightful brioche buns and spread a tablespoon of softened butter on the inside of each half – it adds an incredible richness to the sandwich.
- Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder on the buttered buns to bring out their flavors even more.
- Broil the buns just until they turn a little golden – this adds a slight crunch to complement the tender chicken.
- Now, pile on a heaping portion of the shredded chicken on the bottom half of the bun – trust me, you won’t be able to resist!
- Top it off with a generous amount of fresh coleslaw that adds a delightful crunch and tanginess to every bite.
- Add two dill pickle chips on top of the coleslaw – they give this sandwich a delightful zing and balance out the sweetness of the honey.
- Finally, place the other half of the buttered bun on top.
Want to make this later?
We'll email this recipe straight to you, so it's waiting when you need it.
Notes
-
-
Cookware: I used a 7 qt Crock pot to make this recipe: My Crock pot link
-
Want to dial up the heat? Add a dash more cayenne pepper or hot honey for an extra kick.
-
For a smokier flavor, you can try using smoked chicken breasts.
-
Not a fan of coleslaw? Try topping your sandwich with sliced avocado or pickled onions for a unique twist.
-
Serve the sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries or kettle-cooked chips for a satisfying meal
-
Tried this recipe?
Made this? Tap a star to rate it – it only takes a second and it means the world!How to Store
Store In an airtight container or cover with tinfoil and store in your refrigerator.
