BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Kitchen Dishes

BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.

Anna

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:50:30.692Z

These BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are a crowd favorite, combining tender, shredded chicken with a tangy barbecue sauce, all piled high on a soft bun. Perfect for backyard gatherings or a cozy family dinner!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Tender and juicy pulled chicken infused with smoky BBQ flavors
  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings and sides

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time. This dish allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your family or friends.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the pulled chicken to suit your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Whether you prefer a sweeter BBQ sauce or a spicier kick, the choice is yours. Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal that everyone will love.

A Flavorful Adventure

The combination of tender chicken and zesty BBQ sauce creates a flavor explosion that is sure to please. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the smoky, tangy goodness of the sauce, resulting in juicy, melt-in-your-mouth bites. Each sandwich is a delightful experience, bringing the taste of a summer cookout right to your kitchen, no matter the season.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different BBQ sauces or add your favorite spices to the mix. This recipe serves as a fantastic base for culinary creativity, allowing you to create a pulled chicken that reflects your unique taste. Elevate your sandwiches with toppings like jalapeños, avocado slices, or your favorite cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Easy Meal Prep

Another great advantage of BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches is their meal prep potential. Cook a larger batch, and you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week. The shredded chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it easy to whip up a quick lunch or dinner. Simply reheat and serve on fresh buns for a satisfying meal.

You can also freeze the pulled chicken for future use. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go on those busy days when cooking from scratch isn’t an option. Just thaw, reheat, and assemble your sandwiches for a quick, tasty dinner.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Pulled Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Coleslaw (optional)
  • Pickles (optional)

Enjoy your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches!

Instructions

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it in the sauce.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spoon the pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each bun, top with coleslaw and pickles if using, and then place the top half of the bun on.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches, the possibilities are endless. You can enhance the meal with a variety of sides such as crispy potato wedges, corn on the cob, or a refreshing salad. These pairings complement the rich flavors of the chicken and create a well-rounded meal that everyone can enjoy.

Consider adding a homemade coleslaw on the side or on top of the sandwich for a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the pulled chicken. The cool, tangy slaw not only adds flavor but also provides a delightful contrast that elevates the overall dining experience.

Tips for Perfect Pulled Chicken

To ensure your pulled chicken is perfectly cooked and flavorful, choose high-quality chicken breasts. Organic or free-range options are often more succulent and tasty. Additionally, don’t be shy with the seasoning; a little extra garlic or onion powder can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

If you’re looking for a slightly different texture, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs have a higher fat content, which can result in a richer flavor and more tender meat. Regardless of the cut you choose, this recipe is sure to delight.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great and will be even more tender.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze pulled chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the pulled chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with fries, potato salad, or corn on the cob.

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration60 minutes
Overall Time75 minutes

Created by: Anna

Recipe Type: No-Fuss Kitchen Dishes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pulled Chicken

  1. 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1 cup BBQ sauce
  3. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  4. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  1. 4 hamburger buns
  2. Coleslaw (optional)
  3. Pickles (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.

Step 02

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it in the sauce.

Step 03

Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Spoon the pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each bun, top with coleslaw and pickles if using, and then place the top half of the bun on.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 30g