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Shredded BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Category: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

Pulled chicken tossed in smoky BBQ sauce is piled onto toasted buns and topped with zesty coleslaw, creating a savory sandwich that balances sweetness, tang, and crunch. Quick to prepare, this crowd-pleaser uses rotisserie chicken for ease and combines classic flavors, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings. Each bite offers tender chicken, creamy slaw, and toasty bread, delivering comfort and bold flavor with minimal fuss. Adjust the BBQ sauce for your taste, and add pickles for a burst of extra zing.

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A woman wearing a chef's hat and apron.
Created By Sarah
Last updated on Mon, 19 May 2025 20:08:14 GMT
A sandwich with meat and tomato sauce. Save
A sandwich with meat and tomato sauce. | sarahmeal.com

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
A sandwich with barbecue sauce on top. Save
A sandwich with barbecue sauce on top. | sarahmeal.com

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

A sandwich with meat and sauce. Save
A sandwich with meat and sauce. | sarahmeal.com

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

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade BBQ sauce enhances the depth of flavor and lets you control sweetness and smokiness.

→ What type of chicken works best?

Rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but any cooked, shredded chicken will work well for this dish.

→ How can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute mayonnaise with your favorite dairy-free mayo alternative in the coleslaw mix for a dairy-free option.

→ Any tips for extra flavor?

Serve with sliced pickles, a dash of hot sauce, or use smoked BBQ sauce for added depth and complexity.

→ How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Lightly toasting the buns before assembling adds texture and helps prevent sogginess from the fillings.

→ Can I prep components in advance?

Yes, both the chicken mixture and coleslaw can be made ahead and stored separately until ready to serve.

Shredded BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Tender BBQ chicken and crisp coleslaw fill toasted buns for a mouthwatering, quick-fix sandwich.

Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Duration
25 minutes
Created By: Sarah

Recipe Category: Main Dishes

Level of Difficulty: Simple

Cuisine Style: American

Servings Yield: 4 Portion Size (4 sandwiches)

Diet Preferences: Gluten-Free Option, Dairy-Free Option

What You'll Need

→ For the BBQ Chicken

Ingredient 01 2 cups (approximately 300 g) shredded cooked chicken
Ingredient 02 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce

→ For the Coleslaw

Ingredient 03 1/2 cup (50 g) coleslaw mix
Ingredient 04 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise
Ingredient 05 1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar
Ingredient 06 Salt, to taste
Ingredient 07 Black pepper, to taste

→ For Assembly

Ingredient 08 4 hamburger buns, gluten free if preferred

How to Make It

Instruction 01

In a mixing bowl, thoroughly coat the shredded cooked chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly combined.

Instruction 02

In a separate bowl, toss the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until the vegetables are well dressed.

Instruction 03

Lightly toast the hamburger buns on a dry skillet or under a grill if enhanced texture is desired.

Instruction 04

Layer the sauced BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each bun, then top generously with coleslaw.

Instruction 05

Cap with the top bun and present immediately while warm.

Additional Tips

  1. Using rotisserie chicken saves preparation time without sacrificing flavor.
  2. Customize sandwich taste by adjusting BBQ sauce sweetness or smokiness.
  3. Add sliced pickles for a tangy crunch if desired.

Essential Tools

  • Mixing bowls
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Skillet or grill (for toasting buns)

Allergy Details

Always review ingredient labels for allergens, and consult a professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains eggs (mayonnaise)
  • Contains gluten (unless using gluten free buns)

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

These nutritional details are for informational purposes and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 350
  • Fat Content: 12 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 40 grams
  • Protein Content: 25 grams