Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are my lighter alternative to traditional BBQ. Lean chicken breasts keep the dish high in protein, and whole-grain buns and fresh veggies add extra nutrition. This dish never fails to please my family.
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Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Recipe
Pulled chicken sandwiches are a popular American comfort food. It features slow-cooked and shredded or pulled chicken coated in BBQ sauce or other sauces. Unlike pulled pork, chicken is leaner but still juicy when cooked properly.
The pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches go great with sides, like coleslaw, potato salad, French fries, baked beans, corn on the cob, and green salads. Other options are pasta salad, roasted sweet potato fries, pickles, mac and cheese, or fresh fruit.
You can enjoy it with drinks like beer (American pale ale or Asian beers), cocktails (Moscow Mule, Spicy Mango Margarita, Paloma, Gin and Tonic), light wines, and whiskey or rum-based drinks. Non-alcoholic options include iced tea and lemonade.
Here’s how to make the Pulled Chicken Sandwiches:
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 6 burger buns toasted if desired
- Coleslaw, pickles, sliced red onions Optional toppings
Instructions
- In a large pot or skillet, add chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add ½ cup of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove the chicken and shred using two forks.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir well to coat in the sauce. Simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes to thicken.
- Spoon the pulled chicken onto the buns. Top with coleslaw, pickles, or onions if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can cook and shred the chicken a day in advance. Reheat gently with a splash of water or BBQ sauce.
- Slow Cooker Option: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Shred and mix before serving.
- Chicken thighs are more affordable and stay juicier than breasts
Similar Recipes:
Variations
There are many versions of the BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches with different flavors, toppings, and serving styles. Here are some notable variations:
- Bread & Serving Styles
- Use tortillas or pita bread for a lighter or more portable meal.
- Serve on classic hamburger buns, brioche, or sweet Hawaiian rolls for a soft, slightly sweet bite.
- Use a crusty baguette and add pickled vegetables for a banh mi-inspired sandwich.
- Use waffles or biscuits as the bread for a Southern twist.
- Use lettuce leaves as the wrap for a low-carb option.
- Sauce & Flavor Variations
- Savory sauces such as honey mustard, hoisin, or even peanut sauce can be used. Some recipes swap BBQ for a more neutral or Asian-inspired sauce.
- Buffalo sauce is a great choice. It goes well with blue cheese or ranch slaw for a spicy, tangy twist.
- Sloppy Joe Sauce uses a tomato base for a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
- Chicken Parm coats pulled chicken in marinara and tops it with mozzarella or parmesan for an Italian-inspired sandwich.
- Enchilada or Fajita uses enchilada sauce, Mexican spices, and toppings like jalapeños and Monterey Jack cheese for a Tex-Mex flavor.
- Toppings & Add-Ons
- Coleslaw is a classic topping. It adds crunch and freshness.
- Pickled Veggies, such as pickled carrots, radishes, or cucumbers, add tang and texture, especially in banh mi-style sandwiches.
- Cheddar, mozzarella, or even blue cheese can be added for richness.
- Sliced avocado, broccoli slaw, or other fresh veggies can boost nutrition and flavor.
- A runny fried egg can be added for extra richness, especially in breakfast-inspired versions.
- International & Fusion Twists
- Banh Mi: Pulled chicken with pickled carrots, cucumbers, and a spicy mayo on a baguette for a Vietnamese-inspired sandwich.
- Shawarma: Seasoned pulled chicken with Middle Eastern spices, tucked in pita with fresh veggies and tahini sauce.
- Asian-Inspired: Use hoisin or peanut sauce, and top with slaw or fresh herbs for a fusion take