BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Name: BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Recipe Ideas

These BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are the perfect blend of tender chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and soft buns, making them a hit for any gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-01T18:26:31.275Z

BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are a classic comfort food that brings people together. Whether it's a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy, tender chicken infused with smoky BBQ flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Great for feeding a crowd or meal prep for the week

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are not just a meal; they're an experience that brings people together. Whether it's a summer barbecue, a game day gathering, or a cozy family dinner, these sandwiches are sure to impress. Their mouthwatering aroma and rich flavors create an inviting atmosphere that gets everyone excited about mealtime.

The versatility of this dish makes it a crowd-pleaser. You can serve them at casual get-togethers or dress them up for more formal occasions. Pair them with your favorite sides, like potato salad or baked beans, and you've got a complete meal that appeals to all tastes.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best things about BBQ pulled chicken is how easy it is to prepare in advance. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to whip up a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Simply store the pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat as needed for quick lunches or dinners.

You can also freeze the pulled chicken for even longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a convenient and delicious meal.

Customize Your Sandwich

Another great aspect of BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches is their customizable nature. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit various dietary preferences or taste preferences. For a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using whole grain buns or serving the chicken over a leafy green salad.

Toppings can also be varied to create your perfect sandwich. Traditional coleslaw adds creaminess and crunch, but feel free to experiment with other toppings like pickles, sliced onions, or avocado. The possibilities are endless, making each sandwich uniquely yours.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches.

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.

Add Sauce and Simmer

Pour the BBQ sauce and chicken broth over the chicken. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the skillet and use two forks to shred it into pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Divide the pulled chicken among the hamburger buns. Top with coleslaw if desired, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches!

Storage Tips

To ensure the best flavor and texture, store leftover BBQ pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or additional BBQ sauce to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

If you're planning to freeze the pulled chicken, portion it out into smaller servings. This way, you can easily defrost what you need without having to thaw the entire batch, making it perfect for quick meals on busy days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches with a variety of sides to elevate your meal. Classic choices include coleslaw, potato chips, or corn on the cob. For a healthier twist, consider a side salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness of the BBQ sauce.

For a fun twist, try serving the pulled chicken over baked sweet potatoes or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. These alternatives provide different textures and flavors while still delivering the delicious BBQ taste you love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Absolutely! Simply combine the chicken, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

What type of BBQ sauce works best? The beauty of this recipe is that you can use any BBQ sauce you love! Whether you prefer sweet, tangy, or smoky flavors, your choice of sauce will dictate the final taste of your pulled chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, simply place the chicken, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

→ What type of BBQ sauce is best?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce; a smoky or sweet flavor works best for pulled chicken.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pulled chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with potato chips, fries, or a fresh salad.