Why the Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Is Great Crockpot Recipe
When you’re looking for a hassle-free meal that delivers big on flavor, Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are the way to go.
I love how simple it’s to prepare; just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do its magic. The chicken becomes tender and juicy, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Plus, it’s perfect for busy days when I don’t have time to cook. Everyone in my family enjoys it, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these sandwiches never disappoint, and I always end up with happy faces at the table.
Ingredients of Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
When it comes to making delicious Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, having the right ingredients is key. You want to make sure that each bite is packed with flavor, and trust me, this recipe doesn’t disappoint. Plus, it’s pretty straightforward—no culinary degree required!
So, if you’re ready to plunge in and get your slow cooker going, here’s what you’ll need to gather before you commence on this tasty journey.
- 2 1/2 lbs pork roast
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 (1 ounce) package Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 1 cup wine (red or white, whatever you have on hand)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 5 potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce
- Water to cover the whole roast
Now, let’s chat about those ingredients for a moment. Don’t be afraid of the pork roast; it’s the star of the show and will transform into mouthwatering pulled chicken (or rather, pulled pork, but let’s keep it casual).
If you’re not a fan of certain veggies, feel free to swap them out—maybe throw in some bell peppers or onions instead. And about the wine, it’s all about what you enjoy drinking. No need to splurge on a fancy bottle; just use something that you wouldn’t mind sipping on later.
How to Make Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Alright, let’s plunge into the deliciousness of making Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, shall we? First things first, you’re going to want to grab your 2 1/2 lbs of pork roast and give it a good sear. Heat up 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over high heat, and once it’s shimmering like a disco ball, toss that roast in there. You want to brown all sides—this step is vital because it locks in those lovely flavors. Think of it as giving your roast a cozy, golden-brown jacket before it heads to the slow cooker party.
Once your roast is beautifully browned, carefully place it right on top of a bed of 1 cup of baby carrots and 5 peeled and sliced potatoes in your trusty crockpot. Now, here comes the flavor bomb: sprinkle in 1 (1 ounce) package of Lipton Onion Soup Mix. It’s like the secret handshake of flavor; you can’t skip it.
Then, in the same pan where you browned your roast, add 1 cup of wine—red or white, whatever tickles your fancy—and scrape up all those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. This is where the magic happens; stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of honey, and 1/4 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil, letting everything meld together until it’s aromatic and just starting to reduce. If you’re like me, you might even sneak a taste—just to confirm it’s as good as it smells, right?
Now, pour the mixture over your roast in the crockpot, and if the roast isn’t fully covered, just add enough water to make sure it gets a nice bath. Let it cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or until that pork is fall-apart tender. About two hours before it’s done, stir in 1 1/2 cups of barbecue sauce, rotating the roast to coat it in that sticky goodness.
Once it’s time to eat, let the meat rest for about 10 minutes before pulling it apart with two forks. You’ll feel like a kitchen rock star when you see how easily it shreds. Serve that succulent pulled pork on your favorite buns or rolls, and don’t forget to save some of that liquid for a sweet gravy to drizzle over your veggies.
And there you have it! You’re now ready to impress friends and family with your slow-cooked masterpiece.
Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches while sticking to a low carb diet, I’ve got some delicious substitutions and variations for you.
Instead of traditional buns, try lettuce wraps or low carb tortillas for a satisfying crunch. You can also swap out the honey and brown sugar for a sugar-free barbecue sauce to keep those carbs in check.
For added flavor, toss in sliced bell peppers or mushrooms during the cooking process.
Finally, serve your pulled chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice instead of potatoes for a hearty, low carb alternative.
Enjoy your guilt-free feast!
What to Serve with Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are incredibly versatile, and choosing the right sides can elevate your meal.
I love pairing them with classic coleslaw for that crunchy texture and tangy flavor. Baked beans add a hearty touch, while sweet potato fries bring a delicious sweetness.
You can’t go wrong with a fresh garden salad, either—just toss in your favorite veggies and a light dressing.
For a fun twist, I sometimes serve them with crispy onion rings.
These sides not only complement the sandwiches but also make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
When you want to enjoy Crockpot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches without the extra calories, consider a few simple tweaks.
First, swap out regular barbecue sauce for a low-sugar or sugar-free version. You can also reduce the amount of honey and brown sugar in the recipe, or use a natural sweetener like stevia.
Instead of using buns, try serving the pulled chicken on lettuce wraps or whole grain tortillas for a lighter option.
Additionally, load up on more veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, to add volume without adding many calories.
These adjustments make a delicious meal that’s easier on the waistline!