Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6 hours
Total time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 sandwiches
The Lazy Way to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Making BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches can often feel like a daunting task, but with this lazy approach, you can enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish without too much hassle. Perfect for busy parents, kitchen novices, or anyone looking to prep a delicious meal on a budget, this recipe is your solution to effortless cooking. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, flavorful chicken piled high on soft bread—sounds mouth-watering, right?
What Is The Lazy Way to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches?
This recipe utilizes a slow cooker to let the magic happen while you attend to other tasks. Just toss in the ingredients, set the cooker, and let it work its wonders. The chicken becomes delectably tender and infused with flavors, ensuring that you don’t have to spend extensive time in the kitchen. This method not only saves time but also offers a hands-off cooking experience, making it perfect for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This
There are numerous reasons to fall in love with this BBQ pulled chicken sandwich recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Just throw everything into your slow cooker! Secondly, the flavors are outstanding, thanks to the combination of spices and sauce that permeate the tender chicken throughout the cooking process. Finally, it’s versatile—serve on hamburger buns, sliders, or even over rice for a more wholesome meal option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3-4 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the main protein in your sandwich. Chicken breasts absorb the BBQ sauce well, resulting in mouthwatering flavor.
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce: Choose a sauce that you love! It will infuse the chicken with sweetness and spice.
- 1 onion, sliced: Adding onions contributes flavor and sweetness to the mix, enhancing the overall taste of the sandwiches.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic provides an aromatic depth to the dish. It adds flavor that complements barbecue beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika: This spice lends a rich, smoky flavor that takes the chicken to the next level.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning your dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Buns or rolls: Choose your favorite type—brioche, ciabatta, or whole grain. They’ll cradle your chicken wonderfully.
How to Make
- Prepare your slow cooker: Start by placing the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This enhances flavor release, allowing the onions to caramelize as the chicken cooks.
- Add the chicken: Next, lay the chicken breasts on top of the onions. This way, the chicken can soak up the onion flavor while it cooks.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken. This step is vital as it adds layers of flavor to your dish.
- Pour in the BBQ sauce: Lastly, pour the cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken. Make sure each piece is coated to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Set the slow cooker: Cover and cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for about 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is super tender and easily shreddable.
- Shred and serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the cooker and shred it with two forks. Mix it back with the sauce in the slow cooker and pile it high on your buns!
Variations & Substitutions
Spicy BBQ Pulled Chicken: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. This gives a lovely spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile. You can also opt for a spicy BBQ sauce or mix in some hot sauce to suit your taste.
Honey BBQ Pulled Chicken: If you prefer a sweeter taste, substitute half of the BBQ sauce with honey. This addition enhances the sweetness of the dish, creating a delightful contrast with the savory elements. Combine this variation with a hint of apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors perfectly.
Vegetarian Option: For a meatless alternative, replace the chicken with jackfruit. Canned young green jackfruit, when cooked, mimics the texture of pulled meat. Follow the same method; however, reduce the cooking time to 4 hours on low to avoid overcooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid cooking the chicken for too long as it can make it dry and stringy. Overcooked chicken will not shred well and can become tough. Always check for doneness a little earlier than suggested. Another common mistake is not seasoning enough. BBQ sauces can vary in saltiness, so sampling the sauce and adjusting the seasoning before cooking is crucial. Lastly, using high-fat cuts may yield overly greasy sandwiches, so stick with lean cuts for the best results.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
After making your delicious BBQ pulled chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pulled chicken. Freeze it in portions, ensuring it is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or broth to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be aware that you may need to adjust the cooking time. It’s best to cook on high for about 4 hours. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What’s the best type of BBQ sauce for pulled chicken?
The best BBQ sauce is subjective and depends on your personal taste. However, a sweeter sauce typically works well with the savory flavor of the chicken. Look for options that feature molasses or brown sugar for added depth.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Feel free to make it a day in advance and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches?
There are many delicious sides! Coleslaw, potato salad, or even baked beans are great companions. You can also serve it with corn on the cob for a classic summer meal.
How can I make this recipe low-carb?
To make this recipe low-carb, serve the pulled chicken over lettuce wraps instead of buns. You may also create a salad with the pulled chicken as the main protein, topped with additional veggies and your favorite low-carb dressing.
Conclusion:
Now you have the ultimate guide to making BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches the easy way! With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and plenty of tips and variations, you can deliver a delicious meal without stressing in the kitchen. Enjoy the flavor, ease, and satisfaction of home-cooked goodness with this lazy yet delicious recipe!
