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These shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches are my number one pick when I need something speedy and crowd pleasing Maybe it is game day or just a hectic weeknight but there is nothing that disappears faster at my table
I still remember pulling these together during a last minute summer get together when I had barely anything prepped The kitchen smelled amazing and everyone was raving even before the sandwiches were assembled
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken: Choose juicy rotisserie or leftover roast chicken for best flavor and texture
- BBQ sauce: Pick a smoky or sweet style that matches your taste I love using a thicker sauce with a little heat Look for sauces with whole food ingredients if you can
- Hamburger buns: Go for sturdy bakery style buns to prevent sogginess Toasting makes them even better
- Coleslaw mix: A mix of green and purple cabbage with carrots gives great crunch and vibrant color Use pre shredded to save time
- Mayonnaise: Choose real mayonnaise for creaminess or try Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- Apple cider vinegar: A touch for tangy brightness Brings out the crunch in slaw Look for raw unfiltered vinegar for the best health benefits
- Salt and pepper: Fresh cracked black pepper brings a hint of heat Use flaked sea salt to really brighten flavors
Step by Step Instructions
- Mix the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl place the shredded cooked chicken and pour in the BBQ sauce Stir very well until all the chicken is evenly coated The goal is for each piece to be nice and saucy
- Make the Coleslaw:
- In another clean bowl add your coleslaw mix mayonnaise apple cider vinegar a good pinch of salt and a big grind of pepper Stir until every strand of cabbage is covered and let it sit for a few minutes This softens the cabbage slightly and lets the flavors develop
- Toast the Buns:
- Slice your buns in half and lay them cut side down in a dry skillet over medium heat Toast until golden brown and crisp This makes a big difference keeping the sandwiches from getting soggy as you eat
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Lay the bottom of each bun on a plate Pile on a generous helping of the saucy BBQ chicken Top with a scoop of the tangy slaw making sure to let some of the slaw hang over the edges a bit Finish each with the top bun
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the warm sandwiches right away with some extra pickles or chips on the side and plenty of napkins
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BBQ sauce is my guilty pleasure here I have a whole shelf dedicated to different flavors and never miss a chance to try a new one If my family spies the coleslaw bowl on the counter they know something special is coming especially at a summer picnic
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge They stay fresh up to three days Always assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy If you are making ahead for a picnic bag the components apart and build once you are ready to eat
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out the chicken for pulled pork or jackfruit for a plant based option If you cannot find coleslaw mix use finely shredded cabbage and carrots instead Any sturdy sandwich roll works if hamburger buns are not available You can use any vinegar with a mild and fruity tang like white wine or rice vinegar
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Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches are legendary with a handful of dill pickles or pickled jalapeños on the side When making a party platter I like to put out bowls of extra BBQ sauce or hot honey and some cheese slices for those who want to get creative Serve with corn on the cob or crispy potato wedges for a full meal
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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Could I swap in my own BBQ sauce?
Go for it! Homemade sauce gives you more control and makes things even tastier.
- → What's the best chicken for this?
Rotisserie is a lifesaver here, but any kind of cooked, shredded chicken gets the job done.
- → Is there a dairy-free way to make this?
Sure! Just grab a dairy-free mayo for the slaw—it'll work just fine.
- → How can I bump up the flavors?
Try pickles, splash on your favorite hot sauce, or swap in smoked BBQ for a deeper taste.
- → How do I keep the buns nice and not soggy?
Toast the buns right before loading them up. They'll hold up much better and add a little crunch.
- → Can I make things ahead of time?
Yep! Prep the chicken and slaw ahead, just stash them apart until you're ready to serve.