Introduction
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are a classic, delicious comfort food perfect for any gathering or weeknight lunch. With tender, flavorful chicken soaked in smoky, sweet BBQ sauce, piled high on a soft bun, and topped with a crispy slaw, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a party, or just craving a hearty, satisfying sandwich, BBQ pulled chicken hits the spot every time.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into what you need to make these tasty sandwiches, how to prepare them, and a few tips and tricks to take your BBQ pulled chicken to the next level. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
To make the best BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Don’t worry, these are all easy to find at your local grocery store!
Ingredients for the Pulled Chicken:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4 pieces) – Chicken breasts are the go-to for pulled chicken sandwiches because they’re lean and cook up tender. You can also use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
- BBQ Sauce (1 ½ cups) – Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s tangy, smoky, or spicy. A good quality sauce is key to flavor.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup) – Adds moisture during the cooking process, making the chicken tender and juicy.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Garlic powder enhances the flavor of the chicken and complements the BBQ sauce.
- Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – Adds a savory depth to the flavor.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Gives a smoky, mild heat to the chicken.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Seasonings are essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Ingredients for the Sandwiches:
- Sandwich Buns (4) – Soft, slightly toasted buns work best to hold the pulled chicken without falling apart.
- Coleslaw (optional) – A crunchy, tangy slaw makes a great topping that adds texture and balances the richness of the chicken. You can buy pre-made slaw or make your own.
- Pickles (optional) – Thinly sliced pickles add a tart and refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky chicken.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Slow Cooker or Instant Pot (for easy cooking)
- Large fork (to shred the chicken)
- Tongs or spatula (for flipping the chicken)
- Serving plates and utensils
How to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches (Step by Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides of the chicken to ensure the flavors are well distributed.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Now it’s time to cook the chicken. You can either use a slow cooker or an Instant Pot.
- For Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- For Instant Pot: Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, and seasonings to the Instant Pot. Seal the lid, set to “manual,” and cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then shred the chicken.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker or Instant Pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This is where the magic happens, as the chicken becomes tender and ready to absorb the BBQ sauce.
Step 4: Add BBQ Sauce
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker or Instant Pot, and pour in your BBQ sauce. Stir the chicken and sauce together, ensuring that the chicken is fully coated. If you’re using the slow cooker, let the mixture cook on low for another 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast your buns lightly if desired. Spoon a generous portion of the BBQ pulled chicken onto each bun. Top with a scoop of coleslaw and pickles, if using. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches:
These sandwiches are perfect for family lunches, casual gatherings, or even barbecues. Serve them alongside classic sides like:
- French Fries – Crispy, golden fries are always a hit.
- Potato Salad – Creamy and tangy, a perfect complement to the BBQ chicken.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled, corn adds sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the sandwich.
For a healthier option, you can serve the pulled chicken with a side of grilled veggies or a light salad.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftovers? No problem! You can store the pulled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave the chicken or warm it on the stove with a splash of extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
If you want to keep the chicken longer, you can freeze it. Let the pulled chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it up on the stove.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
When making BBQ pulled chicken, there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind to ensure your sandwiches turn out perfect every time.
- Overcooking the Chicken – If you overcook the chicken, it can become dry and tough. Use a thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Not Adding Enough BBQ Sauce – Don’t skimp on the BBQ sauce! It’s the star of the sandwich, so make sure your chicken is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Choosing the Wrong Buns – Opt for soft, sturdy buns that can hold the filling without falling apart. Avoid flimsy or overly crusty buns.
- Skipping the Coleslaw – The coleslaw adds a nice crunch and a tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, so don’t skip it!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
- Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: If you have the time, using bone-in chicken like thighs will give your dish an even richer flavor. The bones also release extra juices during cooking, making the meat more tender.
- Make the Slaw Ahead of Time: You can prep your slaw the day before to allow the flavors to meld together. This will save time and make your meal prep easier.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken or use a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
- Grill the Chicken for Added Flavor: For a smoky, grilled flavor, grill your chicken before shredding it. This adds a nice char and depth to the taste.
Suggestions to Enhance Your BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
While BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are delicious on their own, you can elevate them with a few simple enhancements:
- Add Cheese – Try adding a slice of cheddar or smoked gouda to the chicken for a cheesy, gooey twist.
- Use Different Sauces – For a unique twist, mix your BBQ sauce with a little ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even buffalo sauce.
- Try Different Slaws – Experiment with different slaw recipes, like a spicy jalapeno slaw or a tangy apple slaw, to bring new flavors to your sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will provide a juicier, richer flavor. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly.
Q2: Can I make the BBQ pulled chicken in advance?
Absolutely! The pulled chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for later.
Q3: How can I make the BBQ sauce from scratch?
You can easily make your own BBQ sauce by combining ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Conclusion
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are an easy, flavorful, and versatile meal that will surely become a favorite at your table. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight lunch, this recipe has you covered. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a no-fuss dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. Remember to avoid common mistakes, follow our tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making the perfect BBQ pulled chicken sandwich every time. Enjoy!