BBQ chicken sandwiches are a favorite for a reason. They are delicious, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, these sandwiches will please everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken smothered in BBQ sauce and crunchy slaw makes each bite a delight.
4 Reasons Why You’ll Love It
- Quick and Easy to Prepare
- Perfect for Gatherings and Parties
- Flavorful and Satisfying
- Customizable to Your Taste
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients List:
- 1½ cups BBQ sauce
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 6 hamburger buns (toasted)
- 24 bread and butter pickle slices
How to make Step-by-Step
1. Make the BBQ Chicken:
In a large pot, mix together the BBQ sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and stir to coat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for about 30–40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
2. Make the Slaw:
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the shredded cabbage and mix well until the cabbage is evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Layer the BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun, top with slaw, and add pickles. Place the top half of the bun on the sandwich and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these BBQ chicken sandwiches with a side of chips, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. They also pair well with baked beans for a true BBQ feast!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate any leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Store extra slaw separately to keep it crisp.
- You can also freeze shredded BBQ chicken for up to 2 months.
- Reheat leftovers on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F for safety.
- Let shredded chicken sit in the sauce for extra flavor.
- Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preference.
- For a spicy kick, add some hot sauce to the BBQ mix.
Variations to Try
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or beef.
- Add cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a creamy flavor.
- Use different types of BBQ sauce for varied tastes, like sweet or smoky.
FAQs
Can I use grilled chicken for this recipe?
Yes, grilled chicken can add a nice smoky flavor.What type of BBQ sauce is best?
Use your favorite brand or homemade BBQ sauce for the best flavor.Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The BBQ chicken can be made a day in advance.What if I don’t like coleslaw?
Feel free to use lettuce or skip it altogether for a simpler sandwich.
BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken
- 1.5 cups BBQ sauce
- 0.5 cups water
- 0.25 cups apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
For the Slaw
- 0.5 cups mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
For Assembly
- 6 pieces hamburger buns Toasted
- 24 slices bread and butter pickles
Instructions
Make the BBQ Chicken
- In a large pot, mix together the BBQ sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot and stir to coat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Cover and simmer for about 30–40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it back into the sauce.
Make the Slaw
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Add the shredded cabbage and mix well until the cabbage is evenly coated with the dressing.
Assemble the Sandwiches
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly.
- Layer the BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun, top with slaw, and add pickles.
- Place the top half of the bun on the sandwich and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Closing Notes
Making BBQ chicken sandwiches is a simple way to create a hearty meal that everyone will love. With a few basic ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious dish ready in no time. Enjoy these sandwiches at gatherings or as a weeknight dinner that takes little effort yet delivers big flavor. Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure it will become a family favorite!
