Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender, flavorful chicken piled high on soft buns with a crunchy, tangy coleslaw topping. This recipe uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal perfect for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or weekend barbecues. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these sandwiches are straightforward to make without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. The combination of smoky spices, tangy barbecue sauce, and creamy slaw delivers a perfect balance that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes these Pulled Chicken Sandwiches stand out is the incredible depth of flavor achieved with just a handful of ingredients. The chicken breasts are seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, which infuse every bite with smoky, savory notes. Cooking the chicken in olive oil locks in moisture, ensuring juicy, tender meat that shreds easily. The barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick that complements the spices beautifully.

To contrast the warm, rich chicken, the crisp coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch with a hint of acidity from apple cider vinegar and a touch of sweetness from sugar. This not only brightens the sandwich but also adds texture and complexity. The soft hamburger buns serve as the perfect vehicle to hold all these layers together. Plus, this recipe is incredibly versatile — you can make it on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, making it a go-to option for busy days.

If you love the idea of shredded chicken but want to mix things up sometimes, you might also enjoy Shredded Chicken Tacos, which use similar seasoning but take the flavors in a different direction.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar

How To Make Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. This dry rub will build layers of flavor as the chicken cooks.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken cook through for another 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker on low for 4 hours or use an Instant Pot to speed up the process.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a large bowl and use two forks to shred the meat finely. The chicken should be tender and pull apart easily. Mix in the barbecue sauce until the shredded chicken is evenly coated.

Step 4: Make the Coleslaw

In a separate bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to create a creamy, tangy slaw. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Toast the hamburger buns lightly until golden and warm. Pile a generous amount of the pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with a scoop of coleslaw, then place the top bun on the sandwich. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dry and tough meat instead of tender pulled chicken.
• Using too much barbecue sauce, which can overpower the spices and make the sandwich soggy.
• Skipping the coleslaw – it adds crucial texture and acidity that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Not seasoning the chicken properly before cooking, resulting in bland sandwiches.
• Using buns that are too soft or not toasted, which can fall apart under the weight of the filling.

Dietary Options

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free hamburger buns to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Lower Carb: Replace the hamburger buns with lettuce wraps to cut down on carbs.
• Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative or avocado for the coleslaw dressing.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken rub or a few dashes of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a spicy kick.

Seasonal Variations

• Summer: Add fresh sliced tomatoes and pickles to the sandwich for an extra burst of freshness.
• Fall: Mix shredded apples or pears into the coleslaw for a sweet and crunchy twist.
• Winter: Use a smoky chipotle barbecue sauce to add warmth and depth to the chicken flavor.
• Spring: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley into the slaw for a bright, herbal note.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store the shredded chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm, then assemble the sandwiches with fresh coleslaw and buns.

You can also make the chicken in advance and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving. Making the coleslaw fresh on the day of serving ensures it stays crisp and flavorful.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more tender and flavorful due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may cook faster or slower depending on thickness.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

Choose a barbecue sauce that suits your taste preferences – sweet, tangy, or smoky. For this recipe, a balanced sauce with a hint of sweetness and smokiness pairs beautifully.

How can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Season the chicken as directed and place it in the Instant Pot with a splash of water or broth. Cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes, then use a quick release. Shred the chicken and mix with barbecue sauce.

Is it okay to prepare coleslaw the day before?

Yes, but to keep it crisp, prepare the coleslaw dressing separately and toss it with the cabbage mix just before serving.

Conclusion

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches are an easy, delicious meal that brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to your table with minimal effort. The combination of smoky, tender chicken and creamy, tangy coleslaw on a soft bun makes every bite a delight. This recipe is versatile and adaptable, fitting into a variety of dietary preferences and seasonal twists. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a simple dinner idea, these sandwiches hit the spot every time. Enjoy the comforting goodness and be sure to experiment with your favorite barbecue sauces and slaw variations to make this recipe your own!

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