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BBQ Pulled Chicken: The Ultimate Recipe for Tender and Flavorful Meals


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

Savor the flavors of this easy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich, featuring tender, shredded chicken coated in your favorite BBQ sauce and served on a bun. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is sure to please a crowd!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
  • Hamburger buns or slider rolls, for serving
  • Coleslaw (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Gather Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter for a smoother cooking process.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
  3. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering.
  4. Sear the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist.
  6. Cover and Cook: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer for 20-25 minutes, checking halfway through.
  7. Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If not, cover and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  8. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
  9. Mix with BBQ Sauce: Return the shredded chicken to the skillet, add BBQ sauce, and stir until well coated. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
  10. Prepare the Buns: Toast the buns lightly on a skillet or in the oven if desired.
  11. Build Your Sandwich: Place a generous scoop of BBQ pulled chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
  12. Add Coleslaw (Optional): Top with coleslaw for added crunch and creaminess.
  13. Top with the Bun: Place the top half of the bun over the chicken and coleslaw, pressing down gently.
  14. Serve with Sides: Serve with potato chips, fries, or a simple green salad, and enjoy!
  15. Enjoy: Take a big bite of your delicious BBQ pulled chicken sandwich and savor the flavors.

Notes

  • Let the pulled chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth, or microwave in short intervals.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes