Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a crowd, or just craving something delicious and satisfying, these sandwiches hit the spot every time. Tender, juicy chicken breasts slow-cooked and shredded, then tossed in a tangy barbecue sauce, all piled high on a whole wheat bun—what’s not to love? Add a crunchy coleslaw topping and a few sliced pickles, and you have a meal that’s bursting with texture and vibrant flavors. Read on for a complete guide to making the best Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, plus tips, tricks, and substitutions that will ensure your next sandwich is a guaranteed hit.

Reasons to Love Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are a game-changer for a few reasons:

• Simple and quick: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts means you can have dinner on the table without hours of prep.
• Versatile: Pair with your favorite barbecue sauce, coleslaw, or even a spicy slaw for a unique twist.
• Healthy and hearty: Using whole wheat buns boosts fiber, and chicken breasts provide lean protein.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the sweet and smoky barbecue flavors.
• Perfect for leftovers: These sandwiches reheat beautifully and can be repurposed into wraps or even Chicken Sloppy Joes for a fun midweek meal.

What You’ll Need

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite or try this Cherry Bourbon Bbq Sauce For Ribs for a sweet twist)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 whole wheat sandwich buns
• Coleslaw for topping (optional but highly recommended for crunch and tang)
• Sliced pickles for garnish (optional)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Slow cooker or Instant Pot – for tender, shreddable chicken
• Mixing bowl – to toss shredded chicken with seasoning and sauce
• Forks or meat claws – to shred the chicken easily
• Basting brush (optional) – for applying extra barbecue sauce to buns
• Spatula or tongs – to assemble the sandwiches

How to Prepare Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. This simple seasoning brings out a smoky, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with barbecue sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts into your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken to coat it thoroughly. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded. For an Instant Pot, cook on the poultry setting for about 15 minutes with a natural pressure release.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and transfer them to a large bowl. Use two forks or meat claws to shred the chicken finely. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker or pot, mix well with the juices and barbecue sauce to ensure every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Step 4: Prepare the Buns and Toppings

Toast the whole wheat buns lightly to add a bit of crunch and warmth. If desired, spread a little extra barbecue sauce on the buns using a basting brush. Prepare your coleslaw or pickles so they’re ready to add just before serving.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Pile a generous amount of pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw and sliced pickles if using, then crown with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of tender chicken, tangy sauce, and crisp toppings.

Substitutions by Diet

• Gluten-Free: Swap whole wheat buns for gluten-free sandwich buns or lettuce wraps.
• Low-Carb: Use iceberg lettuce leaves or portobello mushroom caps instead of buns.
• Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce or incorporate sliced jalapeños in the coleslaw.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free coleslaw dressing or omit coleslaw altogether.
• Sweet Variations: Try tossing the shredded chicken in a Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe sauce for a sweet-savory twist.

Missteps & Fixes

• Chicken turns out dry: Make sure to cook the chicken just until it’s tender enough to shred. Overcooking can dry it out. Adding extra barbecue sauce or some reserved cooking juices can help moisten it.
• Sandwich too soggy: Toast the buns well and add coleslaw right before serving to keep everything crisp.
• Flavor too mild: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder elevate the flavor. Also, stirring in an extra spoonful of barbecue sauce after shredding helps intensify the taste.
• Difficulty shredding chicken: Use warm chicken—not hot—to shred easily without tearing, or use two forks/meat claws for the best results.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Pulled Chicken Sandwiches fresh and delicious:

• Store shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep buns separate in a bread box or wrapped in foil at room temperature.
• Prepare coleslaw fresh or store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat shredded chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to prevent drying out.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I make Pulled Chicken Sandwiches ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook and shred the chicken a day or two in advance. Store it in the fridge and simply reheat with barbecue sauce when ready to serve. Assemble sandwiches just before eating to keep the buns from getting soggy.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

Choose a barbecue sauce that suits your taste—whether sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy. Many enjoy using a classic tomato-based sauce, but experimenting with unique flavors like Cherry Bourbon Bbq Sauce For Ribs can elevate the sandwich to a new level.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative as they tend to be more flavorful and juicy. Adjust cooking times slightly as thighs may cook faster or slower depending on size.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover pulled chicken?

Reheat gently in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce to keep it moist. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe – a sweet and savory chicken dish perfect for weeknights.
• Cherry Bourbon Bbq Sauce For Ribs – make your own flavorful barbecue sauce at home.
• Chicken Sloppy Joes – a fun and messy twist on classic sloppy joes with chicken.

See You at the Table

There’s something truly comforting about a Pulled Chicken Sandwich that brings people together. Whether it’s a casual dinner, a weekend gathering, or a quick lunch, this simple yet flavorful recipe shines every time. Don’t be afraid to customize with your favorite toppings and sauces. I promise, once you try these sandwiches, they’ll become a staple in your meal rotation. So grab your buns, get shredding, and enjoy every juicy bite!

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