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Savory BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Recipe Easy Homemade with Pickles

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A quick and easy recipe for savory BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches with tangy pickles, perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals. Juicy shredded chicken simmered in smoky-sweet BBQ sauce and served on soft buns with crunchy pickles.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup sliced dill pickles or bread-and-butter pickles
  • 4 to 6 soft sandwich buns or brioche buns
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, sliced red onion, jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until smooth. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Simmer the Chicken: Reduce heat to low and pour BBQ sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, turning chicken halfway through. Alternatively, transfer chicken and sauce to a slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours or use an Instant Pot on the poultry setting for 15 minutes.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken from sauce and shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces. Return shredded chicken to the pan or slow cooker and toss in remaining sauce to coat evenly. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if sauce is too thick.
  5. Prepare the Buns and Pickles: Slice pickles and prepare any optional toppings. Toast buns lightly on a baking sheet or grill pan until golden and slightly crisp.
  6. Assemble the Sandwiches: Pile pulled chicken on each bun bottom, top with pickles and optional toppings, then crown with the bun top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Searing the chicken first adds depth and caramelized flavor. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Shred chicken while warm for easier shredding and better sauce absorption. Add a splash of water or broth if sauce thickens too much. Pickles add essential acidity and crunch. For gluten-free, swap buns with gluten-free rolls or lettuce wraps. Optional toppings like coleslaw add texture and creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ pulled chicken, pulled chicken sandwiches, BBQ chicken recipe, easy chicken sandwich, homemade BBQ sauce, pickles, quick dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/savory-bbq-pulled-chicken-sandwiches-recipe-easy-homemade-with-pickles/