BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Chicken breasts: These are the main protein for the sandwiches, providing a tender and juicy base for the pulled chicken.

Bbq sauce: This sauce adds a smoky, tangy flavor to the chicken, making it the star of the dish.

Burger buns: These buns will hold the pulled chicken and any additional toppings, providing a soft and slightly sweet contrast to the savory filling.

Coleslaw: An optional topping that adds a crunchy texture and a refreshing taste to balance the richness of the pulled chicken.

To ensure your chicken breasts are evenly cooked and tender, make sure they are arranged in a single layer in the slow cooker. This allows the bbq sauce to coat each piece thoroughly, enhancing the flavor. When shredding the chicken, use two forks to pull it apart gently, which helps maintain a juicy texture. For an added crunch and a burst of freshness, top your burger buns with a generous scoop of coleslaw.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with pork shoulder: Pork shoulder has a similar texture and can be slow-cooked to achieve the same tender, pull-apart consistency as chicken breasts.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with jackfruit: For a vegetarian option, young green jackfruit has a fibrous texture that mimics pulled chicken when cooked and seasoned properly.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor profile that can complement the pulled meat similarly to BBQ sauce.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with buffalo sauce: For a spicier alternative, buffalo sauce can add a tangy and spicy kick to the pulled meat.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer a healthier option with more fiber and nutrients compared to regular burger buns.

• burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb alternative, large lettuce leaves can be used to wrap the pulled meat, providing a fresh and crunchy texture.

• coleslaw - Substitute with pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy and crunchy element that can complement the flavors of the pulled meat.

• coleslaw - Substitute with sliced avocado: Sliced avocado provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, adding a different but complementary flavor to the sandwich.

• Allow the chicken breasts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to soggy burger buns and spoilage.
• Transfer the shredded pulled chicken into an airtight container. Make sure to include some bbq sauce to keep the meat moist.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the pulled chicken within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer.
• For freezing, divide the pulled chicken into meal-sized portions. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers to store the portions. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label each bag or container with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long the pulled chicken has been stored.
• When ready to use, thaw the pulled chicken in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat the pulled chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a bit more bbq sauce if needed to maintain moisture.
• Toast the burger buns lightly before serving to enhance their texture and flavor.
• If using coleslaw, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add it to the sandwich just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the pulled chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For extra flavor, add a bit more bbq sauce before reheating.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the pulled chicken and a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until the chicken is heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

• Microwave Method: Place the pulled chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add more bbq sauce if needed to keep it moist.

• Slow Cooker Method: If you have a bit more time, you can reheat the pulled chicken in a slow cooker. Set it on low and add a small amount of chicken broth or bbq sauce. Cover and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.

• Sandwich Assembly: Toast the burger buns lightly in a toaster or oven for a few minutes until they are just crispy. This will add a delightful crunch to your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches. Add the reheated pulled chicken and top with coleslaw if desired.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used to simmer at a lower temperature than other cooking methods, allowing the chicken to cook slowly and absorb the flavors of the BBQ sauce.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the exact amount of BBQ sauce needed for the recipe.

• Forks: Used to shred the cooked chicken into fine pieces, making it easier to serve on the burger buns.

• Burger buns: The bread component of the sandwich, used to hold the pulled chicken and optional coleslaw.

• Serving spoon: Used to scoop the shredded chicken onto the burger buns.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, used to mix the coleslaw if you decide to include it in the sandwich.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts from scratch. Simply shred and mix with bbq sauce.

Pre-made coleslaw: Purchase pre-made coleslaw from the store to cut down on prep time.

Quick cooking: Use an Instant Pot to cook the chicken in under 30 minutes instead of using a slow cooker.

Batch cooking: Cook a larger batch of pulled chicken and freeze portions for future meals.

Store-bought buns: Opt for store-bought burger buns to avoid baking your own.