Think about tender, sweet, smoky BBQ chicken on a soft, fluffy bun that just melts in your mouth.
These BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are like a backyard barbecue in every bite.
The beauty of it all is that you don’t even need to fire up the grill! Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, planning a casual family dinner, or craving something comforting on a weeknight, this recipe has you covered.
It’s easy, satisfying, and guaranteed to make you the hero of the kitchen.
Bonus: it’s totally customizable with your favorite toppings! Ranch drizzled, a pop of pickled jalapeños, or maybe a pile of crunchy slaw.
And they’re ridiculously easy to make.
I promise you’ll be the favorite cook around after this.
Here’s your quick grocery list to get you started:
Chicken breasts 2 pounds (900 grams): The star of the show – juicy and perfect for shredding.
Your favorite BBQ sauce 1 1/2 cups: Sweet, tangy, or spicy – pick what makes your tastebuds dance!
8 Buns: Soft brioche or classic hamburger buns work great.
1 large onion, chopped: To amp up the flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: For even more amping.
1 cup Chicken broth: Keeps things moist and adds depth.
Optional toppings: Coleslaw, pickles, or a sprinkle of crispy onions for extra crunch.
How to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling everything you’ll need. Trust me, having it all in front of you makes things a breeze. Bonus: it’ll look like you’ve got your life together (even if you don’t!).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and a generous pour of chicken broth.
Set it to cook (low and slow for about 6 hours, or high for 3 hours if you’re in a hurry). If you’re using an Instant Pot, pressure cook for 15 minutes and let it naturally release.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the pot. It should fall apart easily – a sign that it’s perfectly tender.
Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce
Pour in your favorite BBQ sauce and stir to coat every luscious shred of chicken. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to soak up all the saucy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Toast your buns lightly (optional but so worth it!). Pile the BBQ chicken high, then top with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite fixings. Pop that top bun on, and you’re ready to dive in.
Storage Tips & Meal Prep Ideas
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store the pulled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for make-ahead lunches or last-minute dinners. Pro tip: use it as a topping for baked potatoes or a filling for wraps.
Nutritional Information
While exact values depend on your chosen BBQ sauce and bun, here’s a rough breakdown for one sandwich:
Calories: ~500-600
Protein: ~40g
Fat: ~20g
Carbs: ~60g
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead? Absolutely! Just shred the chicken, mix it with warmed BBQ sauce, and you’re good to go. A quick and tasty shortcut.
What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe? The one you love most! Sweet, smoky, or spicy, it’s all about personal preference. Homemade sauces are fabulous too.
Can I make this in the oven? Yes! Place the chicken, onions, garlic, and broth in a covered baking dish. Bake at 300°F for about 2 hours, then shred and mix with BBQ sauce.
The Final Bite
Oh, the joy of sinking your teeth into a BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich.
Hearty, flavorful, ridiculously satisfying-this can be thrown together in a pinch, yet tastes impressive for anything from weeknight dinner to a special gathering.
Whether having fresh out of the slow cooker or reheating leftovers for a quick bite, every mouthful feels like a warm hug for your taste buds.
So you’ve got your sandwich (yummy!), but let’s make it even better! I totally added this super fresh salad on the side and it was like… next level amazing!
Make a batch and watch it disappear – it’s that good. And don’t forget to grab some extra napkins – things are about to get deliciously messy!
These sandwiches are your secret weapon for busy families, laid-back potlucks, or just a treat-yourself kind of day.
Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a regular request in your kitchen lineup.
Enjoy the compliments – you deserve them!
Yield: 4 Servings
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Indulge in BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches that are bursting with flavor.
Our recipe features tender chicken slow-cooked in a tangy BBQ sauce, served on a fluffy bun.
Great for family meals, picnics, or any occasion, these sandwiches are sure to become a favorite.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time3 hours
Total Time3 hours10 minutes
Ingredients
Chicken breasts 2 pounds (900 grams)
Your favorite BBQ sauce 1 1/2 cups
8 Soft brioche or classic hamburger buns
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup Chicken broth
Optional toppings: Coleslaw, pickles, or a sprinkle of crispy onions for extra crunch.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling everything you’ll need. Trust me, having it all in front of you makes things a breeze. Bonus: it’ll look like you’ve got your life together (even if you don’t!).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and a generous pour of chicken broth.
Set it to cook (low and slow for about 6 hours, or high for 3 hours if you’re in a hurry). If you’re using an Instant Pot, pressure cook for 15 minutes and let it naturally release.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the pot. It should fall apart easily – a sign that it’s perfectly tender.
Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce
Pour in your favorite BBQ sauce and stir to coat every luscious shred of chicken. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to soak up all the saucy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Toast your buns lightly (optional but so worth it!). Pile the BBQ chicken high, then top with coleslaw, pickles, or your favorite fixings. Pop that top bun on, and you’re ready to dive in.
