Print

Quick BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

quick bbq pulled chicken sandwiches - featured image
Print Recipe

A fast and flavorful pulled chicken sandwich recipe featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked quickly with a tangy homemade-style BBQ sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (can substitute thighs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¾ cup BBQ sauce (recommend thick, smoky brand like Sweet Baby Ray’s or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 4 soft hamburger buns (brioche recommended)
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, sliced red onion

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Add chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Cover with lid for last 3 minutes if chicken is thick.
  4. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes.
  5. Shred chicken using two forks or meat claws into bite-size pieces.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey; stir well.
  7. Add shredded chicken to the sauce mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  8. Toast hamburger buns lightly in skillet or oven for 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
  9. Assemble sandwiches by spooning BBQ pulled chicken onto bottom buns, adding optional toppings, and covering with top buns.
  10. Serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Notes

If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen. Rest chicken before shredding to lock in juices. Toast buns while chicken rests to save time. For gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls or leafy greens. For dairy-free, skip butter on buns if toasting.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ pulled chicken, quick chicken sandwich, easy BBQ recipe, weeknight dinner, pulled chicken sandwiches

Find it online: https://tinastirs.com/quick-bbq-pulled-chicken-sandwiches-easy-juicy-meal-recipe/