Pic Credit: jamiecooksitup
One can imagine a BBQ chicken sandwich, soaked and wet from barbecued sauce, with the flavor of a smoky, tangy combination lying between slightly soft buns. You can prepare them either for a quick weeknight supper or for feeding a small gathering.
This simple and delicious recipe will surely become a hit with late family members, which includes children of any age. Now, on to the specifics of how to make the best BBQ chicken sandwich right in your very own home.
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
To make this delightful BBQ chicken sandwich recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, your favorite brand, or homemade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 sandwich buns, toasted
- 1 cup coleslaw, optional for topping
- 2 tablespoon butter, melted
MEASURES & PRECAUTIONS
- These need to be fresh and have the skin and bones taken out. Be sure they all are about 68 ounces in size to have them cook right. Now, you can have some store-bought BBQ sauce or homemade; if you are looking for something particular in flavor, though, be sure to make enough to have the consistency that you like on your sandwiches.
- Slice the onions thin enough that they can caramelize. It is in these caramelized onions that the smoked paprika and garlic powder get a chance to release their depth of flavor, so you don’t want to skimp on either one. 4. Buns: Really try to find a soft sandwich-style bun that can hold up to what will be a good volume of chicken juices without turning too soggy. Lightly toast them to prevent any sogginess.
BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe
INGREDIENTS NOTES
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Can exchange for boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the same quantity, but they are more juicy, so be prepared to cook a bit longer.
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Mix honey BBQ, spicy BBQ, or try it with a mustard-based sauce for a unique flavor.
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For the very best, use brioche buns for their softness and light sweetness, but if desired, may use whole wheat or gluten-free buns.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook 6–7 minutes per side or until no longer pink in the center or to an internal temperature of 165°F.
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When the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside for a moment or two. Then, using 2 forks, shred that chicken, as desired.
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Return that skillet to the stovetop with all of the leftover juices at the bottom, toss in the sliced onions, and cook until soft and caramelized—that's around 5 minutes of cook time.
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Return the shredded chicken to the pan with the onions and add the BBQ Sauce; combine with the chicken. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes so that the two flavors marry.
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Meanwhile, brush the inside of the sandwich buns with some melted butter and bake or grill it in a toaster until golden brown.
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Spread a heaping 1/2 cup of the BBQ chicken filleting on each bun bottom half. Top with 1/2 cup of cole slaw if using then set the top bun on top and serve immediately.
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
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Place a slice of cheddar or Monterey Jack in the skillet with the chicken; let melt, then assemble the sandwich.
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Consider adding a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
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If desired, instead of using the skillet, chicken breasts can be grilled for that smoky, char flavor that grilling allows. Just season the chicken and grill on medium heat until fully cooked, then shred it and mix it with your BBQ sauce.
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Vegetarian Alternative It's so good made vegetarian, too—for a vegetarian version, replace the shredded chicken with shredded jackfruit. Jackfruit has a similar texture to the pulled chicken and really absorbs the BBQ sauce. Add pickles, jalapeños, or crispy fried onions for nice crunch and flavor on top.
EQUIPMENT
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large skillet or frying pan
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Tongs or spatula forks for shredding chicken
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Knife and cutting board
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Oven or toaster oven, to toast buns
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Measuring spoons
Note
SERVING TIPS 💡
- Side Dishes: Classic BBQ chicken sandwiches are perfect to serve with potato salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob. To keep it light and healthy, green salad or roasted vegetables are also great.
- Beverages: Sip on a cold lager, lemonade, or iced tea along with a BBQ chicken sandwich.
- Presentation: Serve this on a good board or platter with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Sprinkle some parsley or cilantro over for an extra pop of color.
Are you looking for another chicken dish? Texas Roadhouse Herb Crusted Chicken Recipe is a flavorful twist!
