BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe Instant Pot
BBQ chicken sandwiches are a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a weekend gathering.
The combination of tender, juicy chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and fresh toppings, all served on a toasted bun, makes this sandwich an instant favourite.
BBQ chicken sandwiches are a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a weekend gathering.
The combination of tender, juicy chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and fresh toppings, all served on a toasted bun, makes this sandwich an instant favourite.
Here is a simple & easy recipe that can be personalized with your favourite ingredients.
BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic meal whether you are making dinner for your family or hosting something like a barbecue in the backyard.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavour)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sandwich:
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche, ciabatta, or your favourite type)
- 1 cup coleslaw (optional, for topping)
- 4 slices of cheddar or pepper jack cheese (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
- Red onion slices (optional)
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions
Step 1:
Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. This adds an extra layer of flavour to the chicken before it’s cooked.
- Cook the chicken:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Oven-Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
- Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix with BBQ sauce: Place the shredded chicken in a large bowl and pour the BBQ sauce over it. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. You can add more sauce if you prefer a saucier sandwich.
Step 2:
Prepare the Sandwich
- Toast the buns: While the chicken is resting, lightly toast the sandwich buns. You can do this on the grill, in a toaster, or a skillet. Toasting the buns adds a nice crunch and helps prevent them from getting soggy.
- Assemble the sandwich:
- Place a generous portion of the BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Add a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top of the chicken, if using. The heat from the chicken will slightly melt the cheese.
- Top with coleslaw, pickles, red onion slices, and lettuce for added crunch and flavour.
- Serve immediately: Top each sandwich with the other half of the bun and serve immediately. These sandwiches are best enjoyed warm.
Tips and Tricks
- Homemade BBQ sauce: If you have the time, making your BBQ sauce can elevate the flavour of your sandwich. Combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a few spices for a quick and easy homemade sauce.
- Use leftover chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover grilled or roasted chicken. Simply shred the cooked chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce.
- Make it spicy: For a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños to the sandwich or mix a little hot sauce into the BBQ chicken.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps to make this recipe gluten-free.
Variations
- BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich: Instead of shredding the chicken breasts, you can use slow-cooked or pressure-cooked chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender sandwich.
- BBQ Chicken Sliders: Use small slider buns and serve these sandwiches as appetizers or as a fun party platter.
- BBQ Chicken Wrap: Swap the buns for tortillas and create a BBQ chicken wrap. Add some avocado slices and a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra flavour.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ chicken sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- French fries or sweet potato fries: A classic side that adds a crispy, salty contrast to the sandwich.
- Potato salad: A creamy, comforting side that complements the tangy BBQ chicken.
- Grilled corn on the cob: Perfect for a summer BBQ, adding a sweet and smoky flavour to the meal.
- Coleslaw: Whether served on the sandwich or the side, coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy element that balances the richness of the BBQ chicken.
Conclusion
BBQ chicken sandwiches are a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. With tender, juicy chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce, and topped with your favourite ingredients, this sandwich is perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re making them for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these sandwiches are sure to impress. Customize them to suit your taste, and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that’s full of flavour.
