BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the main protein for the sandwiches.

Bbq sauce: Adds a tangy and smoky flavor to the chicken.

Burger buns: Soft and sturdy, perfect for holding the grilled chicken and toppings.

Coleslaw: Optional, but adds a crunchy and creamy texture to the sandwich.

To ensure your chicken breasts are perfectly cooked and juicy, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees that the chicken is safe to eat and prevents overcooking. Additionally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can be cooked in the same way as chicken, making them a suitable alternative.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with portobello mushrooms: For a vegetarian option, portobello mushrooms provide a meaty texture and can absorb the flavors of the BBQ sauce well.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce offers a sweet and savory flavor profile that can complement the chicken similarly to BBQ sauce.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with buffalo sauce: For a spicier alternative, buffalo sauce can add a different but equally delicious flavor to the chicken.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns provide more fiber and nutrients while still offering the same structure for the sandwich.

• burger buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps can hold the chicken and toppings while adding a fresh crunch.

• coleslaw - Substitute with pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy flavor and crunch that can complement the BBQ chicken.

• coleslaw - Substitute with sliced avocado: Avocado provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, offering a different but delicious topping for the sandwich.

• Allow the chicken breasts to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.

• Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they stay moist and flavorful.

• Place the wrapped chicken breasts in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against freezer burn.

• Label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the chicken has been stored.

• Store the burger buns separately in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. This prevents them from becoming soggy from the chicken.

• If you have leftover coleslaw, store it in a separate airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from making the burger buns soggy.

• To freeze, place the wrapped chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the chicken breasts to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. This saves space in your freezer and keeps the chicken organized.

• When ready to use, thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures they thaw evenly and safely.

• Reheat the chicken breasts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain their juicy texture.

• Toast the burger buns in the oven or on a skillet for a few minutes. This adds a nice crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy when assembled.

• Assemble the sandwiches with the reheated chicken breasts, burger buns, and coleslaw just before serving. This ensures the best texture and flavor.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wrap the chicken breasts in aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  3. Place the wrapped chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
  4. For the burger buns, wrap them in foil and place them in the oven for the last 5 minutes of the chicken reheating time.
  5. If you have coleslaw, keep it chilled and add it fresh when assembling the sandwich.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the chicken breasts on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. For the burger buns, wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds.
  5. Add the coleslaw fresh after reheating.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil or a small amount of butter.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is heated through.
  4. Toast the burger buns in the same skillet for about 1-2 minutes per side.
  5. Add the coleslaw fresh when assembling the sandwich.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  3. For the burger buns, place them in the air fryer for the last 2-3 minutes of the chicken reheating time.
  4. Add the coleslaw fresh when assembling the sandwich.

• Grill: Used to cook the chicken breasts to achieve a smoky, charred flavor.

• Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken breasts on the grill without piercing the meat.

• Basting brush: Used to apply the BBQ sauce evenly on the chicken breasts.

• Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165°F.

• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to season the chicken breasts before grilling.

• Knife: Used to trim any excess fat or uneven parts of the chicken breasts.

• Plate: For resting the chicken breasts after they are cooked.

• Burger buns: The base for assembling the sandwiches.

• Coleslaw: Optional topping to add a crunchy texture and tangy flavor to the sandwiches.

Pre-marinate the chicken: Marinate the chicken breasts in bbq sauce the night before to save time on prep.

Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked without overcooking by using a meat thermometer.

Preheat the grill: Start preheating your grill while you season the chicken to save time.

Assemble ahead: Prepare the burger buns and coleslaw while the chicken is grilling.

Batch cook: Grill extra chicken breasts to use in other meals throughout the week.