24 May 2024

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich Recipe

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This BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich recipe s a mouthwatering blend of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors that delivers pure comfort in every bite. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are slow-simmered in a rich BBQ sauce infused with the warmth of smoked paprika, the tang of apple cider vinegar, and the depth of Worcestershire sauce. As the chicken cooks down, it becomes fall-apart tender, perfect for shredding and soaking up all the bold, delicious flavors. Pile it high on toasted hamburger buns, with a generous serving of creamy coleslaw for added crunch. Whether you're serving it up for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this sandwich is a guaranteed hit, full of that irresistible BBQ flavor we all crave.

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich

My Easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich Recipe for Weeknight Dinners

This BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich has quickly become a family favorite. There's something about the smoky, tangy BBQ sauce mixed with the tender, shredded chicken that just hits the spot every time. It’s one of those meals that feels hearty and comforting, but still simple enough to whip up for a casual dinner or even a weekend gathering. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good sandwich?

I’m always on the lookout for new sandwich ideas, and this one is up there with my other go-tos like the Easy Buffalo Chicken Wrap, French Onion Hot Dogs, and the Best Brisket Sandwich. Each one brings something different to the table, but they all share that same love for bold, satisfying flavors. If you’re a fan of BBQ and want an easy, delicious meal that’ll please everyone, this pulled chicken sandwich will definitely be your new favorite!

Best,

Ana

Ingredients for BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich Recipe

  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, these are perfect for shredding into flavorful pulled chicken.
  • Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken while keeping it moist.
  • Onion Provides a sweet, savory base for the BBQ sauce.
  • Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor and depth to the dish.
  • BBQ sauce: The key ingredient, delivering that smoky, tangy flavor we all love in pulled BBQ.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy contrast to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
  • Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
  • Smoked paprika: Infuses the chicken with a subtle smoky flavor without needing a grill.
  • Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the dish.
  • Hamburger buns: Soft and fluffy, these buns provide the perfect base for the pulled chicken.
  • Coleslaw (optional): Adds crunch and a creamy contrast to the smoky BBQ chicken.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and tenderness. If using chicken breasts, make sure not to overcook them to prevent dryness.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

You can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own! Sweet, smoky, or tangy sauces all work well depending on your personal preference. Adjust the flavors by adding more vinegar, honey, or spices.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook and shred the chicken in advance, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet or slow cooker with a little extra BBQ sauce.

Can I freeze the pulled chicken?

Yes! After cooking and shredding the chicken, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?

Toasting the hamburger buns helps prevent them from becoming soggy. You can also serve the coleslaw on the side instead of inside the sandwich to maintain the texture of the bread.

Can I add extra toppings?

Absolutely! Popular toppings include pickles, cheese, or crispy onions. You can also customize it with a spicy slaw or add jalapeños for extra heat.

How to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich Recipe

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and season them with salt and pepper. Cook until they are lightly browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Make the BBQ Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Add the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
  4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the chicken simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it is very tender.
  5. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the BBQ sauce.
  6. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon a generous amount of the pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with coleslaw if desired, then cover with the top half of the bun.
  7. Serve: Serve the sandwiches warm with your favorite side dishes.
  8. Dobar tek!

 

What to Serve with BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich

 

Recipe Variations

  • Spicy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich: Add sriracha, cayenne pepper, or extra hot sauce to the BBQ sauce to give the sandwich a spicy kick. You can also top it with pickled jalapeños for extra heat.
  • Honey BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich: Stir in honey or maple syrup to the BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor. The added sweetness pairs well with a creamy coleslaw for balance.
  • Buffalo Pulled Chicken Sandwich: Swap the BBQ sauce for Buffalo wing sauce and toss the chicken in it for a tangy, spicy variation. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and crispy lettuce for a classic Buffalo flavor.
  • BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders: Instead of regular buns, serve the pulled chicken on mini slider buns for a fun, bite-sized option. Perfect for parties or gatherings!
  • BBQ Pulled Chicken Wrap: Use tortillas instead of buns and wrap the pulled chicken with lettuce, cheese, and ranch dressing for a handheld, portable version.
  • Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich: Add a layer of cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the sandwich. Let it melt over the pulled chicken for a gooey, cheesy twist.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich

Ana
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs cooked to perfection and coated in a rich, flavorful BBQ sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Sandwich
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup your favourite BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika or to taste

For serving:

  • 4 hamburger buns toasted
  • Coleslaw optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and season them with salt and pepper. Cook until they are lightly browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  • Make the BBQ Sauce: Return the chicken to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Add the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
  • Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the chicken simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it is very tender.
  • Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the BBQ sauce.
  • Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon a generous amount of the pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with coleslaw if desired, then cover with the top half of the bun.
  • Serve: Serve the sandwiches warm with your favorite side dishes.
  • Dobar tek!

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce according to your preference.
  • For a smokier flavor, you can add a pinch of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
  • These sandwiches pair well with side dishes like potato salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob.
Keyword bbq, family meal, kid-friendly, party food, sandwich, summer

For the Curious Foodie

A Southern Classic, Reinvented

Did you know that BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious twist on the classic pulled pork sandwich, which originated in the Southern United States? Traditionally, pulled pork was slow-cooked over a wood fire for hours, allowing the meat to become tender and flavorful. Pulled chicken offers a lighter, quicker version that still captures all those smoky, tangy BBQ flavors.

The Magic of Flavor Combinations

The combination of chicken, BBQ sauce, and soft buns creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The secret to nailing that BBQ flavor lies in the interplay of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes. Adding apple cider vinegar brings a bright, acidic kick that cuts through the richness, while smoked paprika adds a subtle depth that mimics the flavors of traditional barbecue cooking.

The Perfect Pairing: Coleslaw

Plus, there’s something magical about serving it with coleslaw. The crisp, creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken, making every bite more satisfying. You could say it's the ultimate comfort food in sandwich form!

Get Creative with BBQ Sauce

If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different BBQ sauces - sweet, spicy, or even mustard-based varieties can take your sandwich to new flavor heights. Enjoy discovering your favorite combination!

Author

  • Ana

    Welcome to my culinary haven! My name is Ana, and I'm the passionate voice behind World Cuisines Network. Here, I share recipes that have not only won the approval of my family but have also stood the test of time in our kitchen. My goal is to introduce the rich tapestry of global flavors right to your family table. Thank you for dropping in! We're thrilled to have you join us.

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Follow Ana:
Welcome to my culinary haven! My name is Ana, and I'm the passionate voice behind World Cuisines Network. Here, I share recipes that have not only won the approval of my family but have also stood the test of time in our kitchen. My goal is to introduce the rich tapestry of global flavors right to your family table. Thank you for dropping in! We're thrilled to have you join us.
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