Description
This Crock Pot Shredded Nashville Hot Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken packed with a harmonious blend of hot, savory, and sweet flavors. Made effortlessly in the slow cooker, this dish features shredded chicken combined with a rich, spicy sauce that’s perfect for serving on buns or as a dip.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter, thinly sliced
Sauce
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter
- 4 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 1 ½ teaspoons cayenne pepper
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Layer the Chicken and Seasonings: Place the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Evenly sprinkle the chicken with 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Top the seasoned chicken with 4 tablespoons of thinly sliced butter.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. No additional liquid is needed as the chicken will release its own juices for moist, tender meat.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks or an electric hand mixer if using a ceramic insert. Mix the shredded chicken thoroughly with the cooking juices. Keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Make the Nashville Hot Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup salted butter, 4 tablespoons light brown sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons cayenne pepper, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, ¾ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk constantly to prevent burning as it heats. Once the mixture comes to a simmer, remove from heat.
- Serve: Spoon the shredded chicken onto hamburger buns and generously drizzle with the hot sauce or serve with the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful Nashville Hot Chicken!
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred heat level.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for extra juiciness if desired.
- The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; reheat gently before serving.
- Serve with pickles and coleslaw for a traditional Nashville hot chicken experience.
- Use a ceramic or nonstick slow cooker insert for easier shredding with a hand mixer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
