BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Introduction

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that combines tender, juicy chicken with smoky, tangy BBQ sauce, all piled onto a soft, toasted bun. This classic dish is perfect for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying sandwich. The combination of grilled or shredded chicken with zesty barbecue sauce creates a flavor explosion that is both sweet and savory. Topped with your favorite fixings like coleslaw, pickles, or cheese, these sandwiches can be customized to suit every taste.

Whether you’re cooking on the grill, using the stovetop, or relying on a slow cooker for convenience, BBQ Chicken Sandwiches offer a versatile and delicious option for any occasion. They’re simple to prepare, and with just a few ingredients, you can have a crowd-pleasing meal on the table in no time.

This recipe provides an easy step-by-step guide to making your own BBQ Chicken Sandwiches at home, along with some tips, variations, and pairing suggestions. Let’s dive into the process of creating these mouthwatering sandwiches!

Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

• Flavorful and Juicy: The BBQ sauce infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that make each bite irresistible.
• Customizable: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are easy to customize. Add extra toppings like cheese, bacon, pickles, or slaw, or use a different style of BBQ sauce to suit your taste.
• Easy to Make: Whether you’re grilling, baking, or using a slow cooker, BBQ Chicken Sandwiches come together quickly with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy nights or casual meals.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The chicken can be made ahead of time, so you can assemble the sandwiches quickly whenever you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile: While they’re traditionally served on buns, BBQ Chicken can also be used in wraps, served on a salad, or paired with sides for a completely different twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-500 calories per sandwich, depending on the ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 35-45g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sugar: 15-18g

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 ½ cups BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For Assembling the Sandwiches:

• 4 sandwich buns (brioche, hamburger, or whole wheat)
• 1 cup coleslaw (optional, for topping)
• 1/2 cup pickle slices (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the buns)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This seasoning will help create a flavorful base for the BBQ sauce to cling to.

2. Cook the Chicken

There are multiple methods to cook the chicken for this recipe. You can grill it, bake it, or cook it on the stovetop. Here are the methods:

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the chicken with olive oil and grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

3. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken has cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding it. You can use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, or if you’re in a hurry, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to shred the chicken quickly. The shredded chicken will soak up the BBQ sauce and create the perfect texture for your sandwiches.

4. Combine with BBQ Sauce

In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated. You can use store-bought BBQ sauce, or for an extra personal touch, try making your own homemade BBQ sauce (recipe provided below).

5. Toast the Buns

While the chicken is soaking in the BBQ sauce, prepare your sandwich buns. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and butter the insides of the buns. Toast the buns for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy. This will give the buns extra flavor and texture that complements the juicy BBQ chicken.

6. Assemble the Sandwiches

Once the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches. Start by spooning a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. If desired, top the chicken with coleslaw, pickles, and shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor and crunch. Place the top half of the bun on top, and your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are ready to serve!

Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are convenient, using bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can add more flavor. The bones help keep the chicken moist and tender.
• Customize the BBQ Sauce: BBQ sauces can vary from tangy to sweet to smoky, so feel free to choose your favorite variety. You can even mix and match sauces to create your own signature flavor.
• Coleslaw for Crunch: Adding coleslaw to your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is a great way to add some crunch and a creamy contrast to the spicy BBQ sauce. You can use store-bought coleslaw or make your own with cabbage, carrots, and a simple dressing.
• Cheese It Up: For an extra cheesy touch, melt some cheddar cheese on top of the chicken before assembling the sandwiches. This will add a delicious gooey texture to every bite.
• Use a Slow Cooker for Convenience: If you have more time and want an easy, hands-off cooking method, cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Simply add the seasoned chicken breasts and BBQ sauce to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Shred the chicken once it’s cooked and proceed with assembling the sandwiches.

Variations of BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

• Spicy BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: Add some heat to your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches by mixing in a tablespoon of hot sauce or adding sliced jalapeños to the sandwich.
• BBQ Chicken Wraps: Instead of using buns, try wrapping the BBQ chicken in a large flour tortilla for a lighter, more portable option. You can also add some lettuce, tomato, and avocado for extra freshness.
• Smoky BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: To intensify the smoky flavor, try using a smoked BBQ sauce or add some liquid smoke to your homemade BBQ sauce.
• BBQ Chicken with Bacon: For a bacon lover’s version, add crispy bacon strips to your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches. The smoky, salty bacon pairs perfectly with the tangy BBQ sauce.
• BBQ Chicken Salad: For a healthier version, top a bed of mixed greens with the BBQ chicken, and add toppings like avocado, corn, black beans, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

Storage and Shelf Life

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, microwave the chicken until warm, then toast the buns again for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.

If you want to store the BBQ chicken separately, the shredded chicken with sauce can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Side Dishes and Pairings for BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement the smoky, tangy flavors of the chicken. Here are some great options:

• French Fries: Crispy, golden fries are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with the juicy BBQ chicken.
• Sweet Potato Fries: For a slightly healthier and sweeter option, serve your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with sweet potato fries.
• Coleslaw: A creamy, crunchy coleslaw adds a great contrast to the rich and smoky BBQ chicken.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky flavor of grilled corn pairs beautifully with the BBQ chicken and adds a fresh, summery touch to your meal.
• Pickles: Tangy pickle slices are a perfect addition to your sandwich, balancing out the richness of the BBQ sauce.

Print

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or using a slow cooker, this recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy BBQ sauce. With customizable toppings like coleslaw, pickles, and cheese, you can easily make these sandwiches your own. Serve them with classic sides like fries or corn for a complete meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or outdoor barbecues, BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a true crowd-pleaser. Simple to prepare and full of flavor, these sandwiches will quickly become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation. Enjoy!