Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches (Printable)

Slow-cooked pulled chicken in tangy BBQ sauce, piled with creamy coleslaw on soft buns for a summer crowd-pleaser.

# What you'll need:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

→ Sauce

02 - 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (your preferred variety)
03 - 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
04 - 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
05 - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Sandwich assembly

11 - 6 sandwich buns (brioche, whole wheat, or certified gluten-free as desired)
12 - 1 1/2 cups coleslaw mix
13 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
14 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How to make it:

01 - Place the chicken pieces in an even layer in the base of the slow cooker.
02 - Whisk together the barbecue sauce, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) until smooth.
03 - Pour the sauce over the chicken, turning pieces to coat thoroughly; cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours, until the meat is very tender.
04 - Remove the chicken to a cutting board and shred with two forks; return the shredded chicken to the cooker, stir to combine with the sauce, and let warm for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
05 - In a bowl, toss the coleslaw mix with the mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste until evenly dressed.
06 - Spoon generous portions of the pulled barbecue chicken onto the bottom halves of the buns, top with a portion of coleslaw, and close with the top halves.
07 - Serve immediately while warm; offer sliced pickles or jalapeños as condiments and pair with chips, corn on the cob, or a light summer salad.

# Expert suggestions:

01 -
  • It turns humble chicken into something saucy and joyful with almost no babysitting required
  • The flavors marry into a tangy sweet comfort that works for weeknights and weekend gatherings
02 -
  • If the sauce tastes too sweet add a splash more vinegar to brighten it
  • Using thighs will give a slightly richer result while breasts keep the dish leaner
03 -
  • Toast the buns lightly for texture and to create a barrier against sogginess
  • Add a few sliced dill pickles for a bright contrast that cuts through the sweetness
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