BBQ Chicken Sandwich: The Ultimate Recipe for Flavorful Grilling

BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a delightful dish that brings together the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce and tender chicken, all nestled between two soft buns. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer gatherings, backyard cookouts, and family reunions. Originating from the Southern United States, BBQ chicken sandwiches have become a staple in American cuisine, loved for their rich flavors and satisfying textures.

What I adore about this BBQ Chicken Sandwich is how it perfectly balances the sweetness of the sauce with the savory notes of the chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience that keeps you coming back for more. The convenience of this dish makes it a favorite among busy families and weekend grillers alike. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this BBQ Chicken Sandwich is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving another bite!

Ingredients:

• 4 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
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
• Pickles (optional, for topping)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. 2. **Preheat the Grill**: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stove. 3. **Grill the Chicken**: Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it, allowing those beautiful grill marks to form. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). 4. **Add BBQ Sauce**: In the last few minutes of grilling, brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the chicken. Close the grill lid to let the sauce caramelize slightly. This will add a delicious sticky glaze to your chicken. 5. **Rest the Chicken**: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Preparing the Coleslaw

6. **Make the Coleslaw**: While the chicken is resting, prepare the coleslaw. If you’re using store-bought coleslaw, you can skip this step. For homemade coleslaw, you’ll need: – 2 cups shredded green cabbage – 1 cup shredded carrots – ½ cup mayonnaise – 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon sugar – Salt and pepper to taste In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, and toss until everything is well coated. Set aside in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.

Assembling the Sandwiches

7. **Toast the Buns**: If you like a little crunch, toast your hamburger buns. You can do this on the grill for a minute or two, or in a toaster oven until they are golden brown. 8. **Slice the Chicken**: After the chicken has rested, slice it into strips or shred it with two forks, depending on your preference. 9. **Build the Sandwich**: Start with the bottom half of the toasted bun. Place a generous portion of the grilled chicken on the bun, followed by a spoonful of BBQ sauce. Top it off with a scoop of coleslaw. If you like, add pickles for an extra crunch and flavor. 10. **Garnish and Serve**: If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Place the top half of the bun on the sandwich and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

11. **Pair with Sides**: These BBQ chicken sandwiches are perfect with a side of sweet potato fries, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve them with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. 12. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, store the chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay good for up to 3 days, while the coleslaw is best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Sandwich

13. **Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce**: The BBQ sauce you choose can make a big difference in flavor. If you prefer a

Conclusion:

In summary, this BBQ Chicken Sandwich is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game. The combination of tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce, all nestled between a soft bun, creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a casual family dinner, or just craving something delicious, this sandwich is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider adding a crunchy coleslaw on top for an extra layer of texture and flavor, or serve it alongside crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different types of barbecue sauces—try a spicy chipotle sauce for a kick, or a tangy mustard-based sauce for a unique twist. You can even swap out the chicken for pulled pork or jackfruit for a vegetarian option, making this recipe versatile and adaptable to any dietary preference. I encourage you to give this BBQ Chicken Sandwich a try and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious BBQ Chicken Sandwich together!

Print