Savor the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches, a healthier take on a classic favorite. Slow-cooked chicken breasts are shredded and mixed with homemade BBQ sauce, then served on whole-grain buns. Perfect for family dinners, these sandwiches are packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors that satisfy your cravings.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken breasts and homemade BBQ sauce to enhance flavor and minimize additives.
- Slow Cooker Hack: If short on time, shred rotisserie chicken and simmer it with BBQ sauce for a quicker alternative.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the sandwich buns for added texture and a subtle crunch.
- Serve Fresh: Assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep buns from becoming soggy.
- Side Pairing: Pair with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a balanced, healthy meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich recipe combines the nostalgia of comfort food with a health-conscious twist. The chicken is lean, high in protein, and cooked to tender perfection in a flavorful BBQ sauce that you can easily customize. Whether for a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and makes excellent leftovers!
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Tender BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches on whole-grain buns, packed with flavor, protein, and wholesome ingredients for a healthier dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 6 whole-grain buns
- Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, avocado slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add diced onions, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper. Pour chicken broth over the top.
- Cook the Chicken: Set the slow cooker to low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Stir in the BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar. Let it simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes on low.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the buns lightly. Add a generous portion of pulled chicken to each bun and top with your favorite toppings.
- Serve: Pair with a side salad or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness and tanginess of the BBQ sauce to your preference.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 824Total Fat 22gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 196mgSodium 1478mgCarbohydrates 74gFiber 7gSugar 32gProtein 80g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and shred easily after slow cooking. For richer flavor, substitute with chicken thighs.
- BBQ Sauce: Opt for homemade sauce to control sugar and sodium levels, or use store-bought low-sugar BBQ sauce for convenience.
- Whole-Grain Buns: These provide extra fiber and nutrients compared to traditional white buns. Consider gluten-free options if needed.
- Onions and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and a robust flavor to the dish.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tanginess and balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Options: Substitute chicken with jackfruit or shredded tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Buns Alternatives: Use lettuce wraps, flatbreads, or serve as a BBQ chicken bowl for a low-carb option.
- Spice Level: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for extra heat, or omit for a milder flavor.
- Additional Toppings: Include sliced pickles, coleslaw, or avocado for added flavor and texture.
- Sauce Variety: Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors, like smoky chipotle or honey mustard.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze the chicken in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Make Ahead: Prep the chicken and sauce in advance; assemble sandwiches fresh for the best taste.
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