Ultimate BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipes: From Classic to Creative!
BBQ chicken sandwiches are a quintessential summer meal. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a casual weeknight dinner. Whether you’re craving a classic, tangy sandwich or something a little more adventurous, this guide has you covered with several delicious BBQ chicken sandwich recipes and all the tips and tricks you need to perfect them.
**Why BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a Winner**
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s explore why BBQ chicken sandwiches are so beloved:
* **Versatility:** You can use different cuts of chicken, types of BBQ sauce, and toppings to create endless variations.
* **Ease of Preparation:** Most recipes require minimal cooking skills and can be adapted to suit your time constraints.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** They are almost always a hit with both kids and adults.
* **Perfect for Leftovers:** Leftover grilled or roasted chicken is ideal for making BBQ chicken sandwiches.
**Key Components of a Great BBQ Chicken Sandwich**
A truly amazing BBQ chicken sandwich relies on a few key components:
* **The Chicken:** The foundation of the sandwich. Choose your preferred cut (breasts, thighs, pulled chicken) and cooking method (grilling, baking, slow cooking).
* **The BBQ Sauce:** The soul of the sandwich. Select a sauce that complements your taste preferences – sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy.
* **The Bun:** The vessel for the deliciousness. Opt for a sturdy bun that can hold all the ingredients without falling apart.
* **The Toppings:** The flavor enhancers. Add toppings that complement the chicken and sauce, such as coleslaw, pickles, onions, cheese, and more.
**Recipe 1: Classic Grilled BBQ Chicken Sandwich**
This is the go-to recipe for a simple, satisfying BBQ chicken sandwich.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade – recipe follows)
* 4 hamburger buns
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, cheddar cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help them brown better. Lightly brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. **Grill the Chicken:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. **BBQ Bath:** During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken breasts generously with BBQ sauce, turning occasionally to coat evenly. Be careful not to burn the sauce.
4. **Rest and Slice (Optional):** Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful sandwich. You can slice the chicken breasts or leave them whole, depending on your preference.
5. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Spread a layer of BBQ sauce on the bottom bun. Place the grilled chicken on top, followed by your desired toppings.
6. **Serve:** Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately. Enjoy!
**Recipe 2: Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich**
This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight. The slow cooker does all the work!
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
* 1 bottle (18 oz) BBQ sauce (your favorite flavor)
* 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for added tang)
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added smoky flavor)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 6-8 hamburger buns
* Toppings: Coleslaw, pickles, crispy fried onions (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper. If using, add smoked paprika.
2. **Add Sauce and Broth:** Pour the BBQ sauce and chicken broth (or water) over the chicken. Add apple cider vinegar, if desired.
3. **Slow Cook:** Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. **Shred the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to coat it with the sauce.
5. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Toast the hamburger buns. Spoon a generous amount of BBQ pulled chicken onto each bun. Top with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or crispy fried onions.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately. This is great served with a side of potato salad or baked beans.
**Recipe 3: Spicy BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Jalapeño Coleslaw**
For those who like a little heat, this recipe is a winner. The jalapeño coleslaw adds a refreshing kick that balances the spiciness of the BBQ sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 cup spicy BBQ sauce (e.g., with chipotle peppers or habanero)
* 4 hamburger buns
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Jalapeño Coleslaw:**
* 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sugar
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Jalapeño Coleslaw:** In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, minced jalapeño, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. **BBQ Bath:** During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken breasts generously with spicy BBQ sauce, turning occasionally to coat evenly.
5. **Rest and Slice (Optional):** Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. You can slice the chicken breasts or leave them whole.
6. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Toast the hamburger buns. Place the grilled chicken on the bottom bun. Top with a generous amount of jalapeño coleslaw.
7. **Serve:** Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
**Recipe 4: Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Grilled Pineapple**
A taste of the tropics with this sweet and savory sandwich featuring grilled pineapple.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* 1 cup Hawaiian BBQ sauce (sweet and tangy)
* 4 hamburger buns or Hawaiian rolls
* 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
* Olive oil or cooking spray
* Optional toppings: Lettuce, red onion
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Lightly brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. **Grill the Pineapple:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the pineapple rings with olive oil or cooking spray. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly softened.
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Grill the chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. **BBQ Bath:** During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken thighs generously with Hawaiian BBQ sauce, turning occasionally to coat evenly.
5. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Toast the hamburger buns (or Hawaiian rolls). Place a grilled pineapple ring on the bottom bun. Top with the grilled BBQ chicken thigh, and desired toppings like lettuce and red onion.
6. **Serve:** Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
**Recipe 5: BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Avocado and Bacon**
This is the ultimate indulgent BBQ chicken sandwich! The creamy avocado and crispy bacon add richness and texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
* 4 hamburger buns
* 4 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
* 1 ripe avocado, sliced
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Bacon:** Cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. **BBQ Bath:** During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken breasts generously with BBQ sauce, turning occasionally to coat evenly.
5. **Rest and Slice (Optional):** Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. You can slice the chicken breasts or leave them whole.
6. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Toast the hamburger buns. Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce on the bottom bun. Place the grilled chicken on top, followed by slices of avocado and crispy bacon.
7. **Serve:** Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
**Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipes**
While store-bought BBQ sauce is convenient, making your own allows you to customize the flavor to your exact preferences.
**Classic Tangy BBQ Sauce:**
* 1 cup ketchup
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Let cool before using.
**Honey BBQ Sauce:**
* 1 cup ketchup
* 1/4 cup honey
* 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Let cool before using.
**Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Sandwich**
* **Don’t overcook the chicken:** Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
* **Use a good quality BBQ sauce:** The sauce is a key flavor component, so choose one you love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands or make your own.
* **Toast the buns:** Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy and adds a nice texture.
* **Don’t overload the sandwich:** Too many toppings can make the sandwich difficult to eat. Choose a few complementary flavors and textures.
* **Let the chicken rest:** Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful sandwich.
* **Marinate the chicken (optional):** Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) can add extra flavor and moisture.
* **Use a sturdy bun:** Choose a bun that can hold all the ingredients without falling apart. Brioche buns, Kaiser rolls, or ciabatta rolls are all good options.
* **Consider the toppings:** The toppings can make or break a BBQ chicken sandwich. Think about flavors and textures that complement the chicken and sauce. Some popular options include coleslaw, pickles, onions, cheese, avocado, bacon, and grilled pineapple.
* **Experiment with different cuts of chicken:** While chicken breasts are a popular choice, chicken thighs are often more flavorful and forgiving. Pulled chicken is also a great option for a messy, delicious sandwich.
* **Get creative with the sauce:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors. Try adding a splash of hot sauce, a squeeze of lime juice, or a spoonful of honey to your favorite sauce.
* **Serve with complementary sides:** BBQ chicken sandwiches are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with the right sides. Some popular choices include potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, and macaroni and cheese.
* **Make it ahead:** Pulled chicken can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it before assembling the sandwiches.
**Variations and Creative Ideas**
Once you’ve mastered the basic BBQ chicken sandwich, feel free to experiment with different variations and creative ideas:
* **BBQ Chicken Pizza Sandwich:** Use pizza dough or flatbread instead of buns. Top with BBQ chicken, mozzarella cheese, red onion, and cilantro.
* **BBQ Chicken Quesadillas:** Fill tortillas with BBQ chicken, cheese, and black beans. Grill or pan-fry until golden brown.
* **BBQ Chicken Salad Sandwich:** Combine shredded BBQ chicken with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and grapes for a unique twist on chicken salad.
* **BBQ Chicken Sliders:** Use slider buns for a smaller, party-friendly version. Perfect for appetizers or potlucks.
* **BBQ Chicken Waffle Sandwich:** Use waffles instead of buns for a sweet and savory combination. Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra decadence.
* **Caribbean BBQ Chicken Sandwich:** Use jerk seasoning on the chicken and top with mango salsa for a tropical flair.
**Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce:**
The BBQ sauce is arguably the most important part of the sandwich. Here’s a breakdown of some popular BBQ sauce styles:
* **Kansas City Style:** Thick, sweet, and smoky, often made with molasses and brown sugar.
* **Memphis Style:** Tangy and tomato-based, with a hint of spice. Often served dry (without sauce) or as a finishing sauce.
* **Texas Style:** Thin and vinegary, with a peppery kick. Often used for beef brisket but also works well with chicken.
* **Carolina Style:** Thin and tangy, made with vinegar and mustard. Perfect for pulled pork but also delicious on chicken.
* **Alabama White Sauce:** A mayonnaise-based sauce with vinegar, horseradish, and pepper. A unique and tangy option for chicken.
**Storing Leftovers**
If you have leftover BBQ chicken sandwiches, store the components separately to prevent them from getting soggy. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store the buns separately in a plastic bag. Reheat the chicken and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
**Conclusion**
BBQ chicken sandwiches are a versatile and delicious meal that can be enjoyed year-round. With these recipes and tips, you can create the perfect BBQ chicken sandwich to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable sandwich!