These pulled chicken sandwiches are perfect for any gathering! The chicken is cooked until it’s tender and mixed with a tasty sauce that adds a burst of flavor.
Serve them on soft buns and watch everyone go back for seconds. I love adding a bit of coleslaw on top for crunch. You’ll want to keep this recipe handy—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook quickly and shred easily. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce to save time, or make homemade if you prefer! For a change, try different types like mustard-based or tomato-based sauces. You can even use salsa for a different flavor twist!
Buns: Brioche buns are super soft and buttery, but any hamburger bun works fine. If you want a healthier choice, try whole wheat or gluten-free buns. You can even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
Cabbage: For coleslaw, green cabbage is common, but you can mix in chopped apples or radishes for crunch! Consider using bagged coleslaw mix for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Shred Chicken for Sandwiches?
Shredding chicken can feel tricky, but it’s easier than you think! After your chicken is cooked and cool enough to handle, here’s how to do it:
- Use two forks: Hold one fork steady and pull the chicken apart with the other.
- Or use your hands: Simply grab pieces and pull them apart. Make sure to let them cool a bit first.
Once shredded, mix it well with barbecue sauce. This not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist when you assemble the sandwiches.
How Do I Make My Coleslaw Really Creamy?
For a coleslaw that’s rich and creamy, making the dressing right is key:
- Start with good quality mayonnaise, as it’s the base. You can use Greek yogurt if you want a lighter option.
- Add apple cider vinegar for that tangy kick, and honey or sugar to sweeten it up.
- Mix well until everything is coated, and let it chill for a little while in the fridge to meld those flavors.
This slaw will taste even better as it sits, making it ideal to prepare ahead of time!
These tips should help you create delicious pulled chicken sandwiches that everyone will love. Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pulled Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sandwiches:
- 4-6 sandwich buns (brioche or soft hamburger buns work well)
For the Coleslaw:
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30-40 minutes to cook the chicken (or 6-7 hours on low in a slow cooker). Allow some extra time for the coleslaw to chill and the flavors to blend. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour if cooking on the stovetop, but you can set it and forget it if using the slow cooker!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
To get started, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This will be your seasoning mix. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken breasts for great flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and brown on each side for about 2-3 minutes. If you’re using a slow cooker, just place the chicken in the pot and pour in the chicken broth or water without browning.
- If using a slow cooker: Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is extremely tender and shreds easily.
- If on the stovetop: After browning, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it and add more broth if needed.
3. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the skillet or slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If it’s fall-apart tender, you can use your fingers!
4. Add Barbecue Sauce:
Return the shredded chicken to the pot or skillet. Stir in your barbecue sauce and cook gently over low heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through and well mixed.
5. Prepare the Coleslaw:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and purple cabbages, shredded carrots, and parsley. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Allow it to chill in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors meld.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
You can toast the buns lightly if you’d like! Place a generous amount of pulled chicken on each bottom bun. For extra deliciousness, drizzle more barbecue sauce over the chicken. Then, add a good scoop of the creamy coleslaw on top, followed by the top bun. Press down gently and serve right away!
7. Serving Suggestions:
These pulled chicken sandwiches pair wonderfully with crispy potato chips, tangy pickles, or hearty baked beans. Enjoy your meal!
Now you have a tasty and satisfying dish to impress your family and friends—enjoy your delicious pulled chicken sandwiches with tender smoky BBQ chicken and refreshing creamy coleslaw!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. A quick method is to place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour, or simply leave it in the fridge overnight.
How Do I Store Leftover Pulled Chicken?
Store any leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for 3-4 months!
Can I Make Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together. Give it a good stir before serving to refresh the dressing.
What Other Toppings Can I Add to the Sandwiches?
Feel free to get creative! Consider adding sliced jalapeños for heat, pickled red onions for tang, or even sliced avocado for creaminess. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, for added flavor.