BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these will be the base of your pulled chicken.

Bbq sauce: This will add the smoky, tangy flavor to your chicken. Choose your favorite brand or make your own.

Burger buns: Soft and sturdy, these will hold your pulled chicken and toppings.

Coleslaw: Optional, but adds a nice crunch and contrast to the savory chicken.

To ensure your chicken breasts are evenly cooked and tender, try to arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of 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 flavor, consider toasting the burger buns lightly before assembling the sandwiches. If you opt to include coleslaw, prepare it fresh to add a refreshing contrast to the savory pulled chicken.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative for pulled chicken.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with jackfruit: For a vegetarian option, young green jackfruit has a similar texture to pulled chicken when cooked.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade bbq sauce: You can control the ingredients and flavor profile to suit your taste.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: For a different flavor profile, teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory twist.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns add more fiber and nutrients.

• burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps are a fresh and crunchy alternative.

• coleslaw - Substitute with pickled red onions: Pickled red onions add a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the bbq pulled chicken.

• coleslaw - Substitute with sliced avocado: Avocado adds creaminess and a healthy dose of fats, making the sandwich richer.

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Transfer the shredded chicken into an airtight container. Make sure to include some of the bbq sauce to keep it moist.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the pulled chicken within 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat the pulled chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, adding extra bbq sauce if needed to maintain moisture.
• Serve the reheated chicken on burger buns with optional coleslaw for a quick and delicious meal.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the pulled chicken in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use the microwave. Place the pulled chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have a stovetop, reheat the pulled chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

• To reheat the burger buns, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can lightly toast them in a skillet or toaster.

• If you have leftover coleslaw, serve it cold directly from the refrigerator. If it needs a bit of refreshing, mix in a little extra mayonnaise or vinegar to revive its texture and flavor.

• Slow cooker: A countertop electrical appliance used for simmering food at a low temperature over a long period.

• Measuring cup: A kitchen utensil used to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients.

• Forks: Utensils used to shred the cooked chicken into smaller pieces.

• Burger buns: Bread rolls used to serve the shredded chicken.

• Coleslaw: An optional side dish made from raw cabbage and dressed most commonly with a vinaigrette or mayonnaise.

• Serving spoon: A large spoon used to serve the shredded chicken onto the burger buns.

• Knife: A tool used to cut the burger buns if needed.

• Cutting board: A durable board on which to place the burger buns for cutting.

• Mixing bowl: A bowl used to mix the coleslaw if you are preparing it fresh.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken breasts.

Pre-made coleslaw: Buy pre-made coleslaw from the store to avoid extra prep work.

Quick BBQ sauce: Opt for a high-quality, store-bought BBQ sauce to skip making it from scratch.

Instant pot method: Use an Instant Pot to cook the chicken faster, about 15 minutes on high pressure.

Shred with mixer: Shred the chicken quickly using a hand mixer instead of forks.