Description
A quick and flavorful pulled BBQ chicken sandwich recipe ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for game day fuel using rotisserie or fresh chicken breast.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (Kansas City-style)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 6–8 hamburger buns (sturdy variety like potato or brioche)
- Butter or oil for toasting buns (optional)
- Pickles or coleslaw for topping (optional)
Instructions
- If using fresh chicken, place breasts in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then shred with two forks.
- While chicken rests, combine barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large skillet over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and toss gently to coat evenly in the sauce. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly. Add a splash of water or broth if too dry.
- Split the hamburger buns and toast them in a separate pan or toaster with butter or oil until golden brown.
- Assemble sandwiches by placing a generous portion of saucy chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Top with the other half and serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, toast the buns to prevent sogginess. If using rotisserie chicken, skip the boiling step. The sauce can be adjusted for heat by adding hot sauce or for tang by adding more vinegar. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen (sauce and chicken only) for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: pulled chicken, BBQ chicken, game day food, quick dinner, rotisserie chicken, sandwich recipe, football food, 15 minute meals