BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Chicken breasts: The main protein for the dish, providing a tender and juicy base for the pulled chicken.

Bbq sauce: Adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor to the chicken, making it irresistibly delicious.

Burger buns: Soft and fluffy, these buns hold the pulled chicken and coleslaw together, making it easy to enjoy.

Coleslaw: Provides a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the rich and savory pulled chicken.

To ensure the chicken breasts are extra tender and flavorful, sear them in a hot pan with a bit of oil for 2-3 minutes on each side before placing them in the slow cooker. This step adds a depth of flavor and helps to lock in the juices. Additionally, for a more complex taste, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar and a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the bbq sauce before pouring it over the chicken.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts offer a similar texture and can be shredded easily, making them a good alternative for pulled chicken.

• chicken breasts - Substitute with jackfruit: For a vegetarian option, young green jackfruit has a texture that mimics shredded meat when cooked.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor that can complement the pulled meat similarly to BBQ sauce.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade tomato sauce: You can create a tangy and slightly sweet sauce by mixing tomato sauce with vinegar, brown sugar, and spices.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer a healthier alternative with more fiber and nutrients.

• burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, large lettuce leaves can be used to wrap the pulled chicken and coleslaw.

• coleslaw - Substitute with pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that complements the savory pulled chicken.

• coleslaw - Substitute with sliced avocado: Avocado provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, offering a different but delicious twist to the sandwich.

• Allow the pulled chicken to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy burger buns and spoilage.

• Transfer the cooled pulled chicken into an airtight container. For best results, use a container that is just the right size to minimize air exposure.

• If you plan to enjoy your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches within the next 3-4 days, store the container in the refrigerator. Make sure to label it with the date to keep track of freshness.

• For longer storage, place the pulled chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

• When freezing, consider portioning the pulled chicken into individual servings. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need, reducing waste and speeding up the reheating process.

• To reheat refrigerated pulled chicken, transfer it to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

• For reheating from frozen, it's best to thaw the pulled chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated pulled chicken.

• If you're in a hurry, you can reheat frozen pulled chicken directly in the microwave. Use the defrost setting or heat on low power, stirring occasionally, until fully thawed and warmed.

• To maintain the texture and flavor of the coleslaw, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add it to your burger buns just before serving.

• For a quick meal, keep a stash of burger buns in the freezer. Simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes before assembling your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pulled chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• For a quicker method, use the microwave. Place the pulled chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• If you prefer stovetop reheating, add the pulled chicken to a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist, and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• To reheat the burger buns, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can lightly toast them in a skillet or toaster for a few minutes until warm and slightly crispy.
• For the coleslaw, it's best to keep it cold. If it has been stored in the refrigerator, simply give it a good stir before serving alongside your reheated BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches.

• Slow cooker: Used to cook the chicken breasts slowly, ensuring they become tender and easy to shred.

• Fork: Utilized to shred the cooked chicken into fine pieces.

• Measuring cup: Helps measure the correct amount of BBQ sauce.

• Mixing bowl: Useful for mixing the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce thoroughly.

• Tongs: Handy for placing the pulled chicken onto the burger buns.

• Serving spoon: Ideal for scooping coleslaw onto the sandwiches.

• Knife: Can be used to slice the burger buns if they are not pre-sliced.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to place the burger buns for slicing.

• Plate: Used to serve the finished BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts from scratch. Just shred and mix with bbq sauce.

Pre-made coleslaw: Buy pre-made coleslaw from the store to skip the chopping and mixing.

Quick cook method: Use an Instant Pot to cook the chicken breasts in under 30 minutes instead of using a slow cooker.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch of pulled chicken and freeze portions for future quick meals.

Toasted buns: Toast the burger buns in the oven or on a skillet while the chicken is cooking to save time.