Shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches are a mouth-watering twist on traditional BBQ chicken sandwiches. The tender, juicy chicken, smothered in a rich and tangy BBQ sauce, is perfectly complemented by the crunch of a fresh bun and the coolness of coleslaw. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to make the perfect shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches that are sure to become a favorite at your next backyard gathering or family dinner.
Choosing the Right Chicken
When it comes to making shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches, the type of chicken you use is crucial. You want to choose a cut of chicken that is tender, juicy, and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. Here are a few options to consider:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a popular choice for shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches. They are lean, tender, and have a mild flavor that pairs well with BBQ sauce. However, they can be prone to drying out if overcooked, so be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are another great option for shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches. They have a higher fat content than chicken breasts, which makes them more tender and juicy. They also have a richer, more intense flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of BBQ sauce.
Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders are a great option if you want to make shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches that are easy to eat and fun to serve. They are already cut into strips, so you can simply cook them and shred them when they’re done.
Preparing the Chicken
Once you’ve chosen your chicken, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
Seasoning the Chicken
Before you cook the chicken, you’ll want to season it with a blend of spices and herbs that complement the flavor of BBQ sauce. Here’s a simple seasoning blend you can use:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion powder | 1 tablespoon |
Cooking the Chicken
There are several ways to cook the chicken for shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches. Here are a few options:
Grilling
Grilling is a great way to add a smoky flavor to your shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat, season the chicken with your seasoning blend, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Baking
Baking is a great way to cook the chicken if you don’t have a grill or prefer a more hands-off approach. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), season the chicken with your seasoning blend, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a great way to cook the chicken if you want to make shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches that are tender and fall-apart. Simply season the chicken with your seasoning blend, place it in a slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Shredding the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to shred it. Here are a few ways to shred the chicken:
Using Two Forks
Using two forks is a simple way to shred the chicken. Simply place the cooked chicken on a plate or cutting board, and use two forks to pull it apart into shreds.
Using a Stand Mixer
Using a stand mixer is a great way to shred the chicken if you’re making a large batch of shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches. Simply place the cooked chicken in the mixer bowl, attach the paddle attachment, and mix on low speed until the chicken is shredded.
Making the BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce is a crucial component of shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade BBQ sauce:
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Simply combine all the ingredients in a saucepan, whisk until smooth, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Once you have the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Here are the steps to follow:
Toasting the Buns
Toasting the buns is a great way to add texture and flavor to your shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches. Simply place the buns on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little bit of oil, and toast in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Adding the Chicken and BBQ Sauce
Once the buns are toasted, it’s time to add the chicken and BBQ sauce. Simply place a generous portion of shredded chicken on each bun, followed by a spoonful of BBQ sauce.
Adding the Toppings
Finally, it’s time to add the toppings. Here are a few options to consider:
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar is a classic topping for shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches.
- Pickles: Thinly sliced dill pickles are a great addition to shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches, adding a tangy, salty flavor.
- Onions: Thinly sliced red onions are a great addition to shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches, adding a sweet, crunchy texture.
Conclusion
Shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches are a delicious twist on traditional BBQ chicken sandwiches. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make tender, juicy shredded chicken that’s perfectly complemented by a rich and tangy BBQ sauce. Whether you’re serving them at a backyard gathering or a family dinner, shredded BBQ chicken sandwiches are sure to be a hit.
What is the main ingredient in Shredded BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
The main ingredient in Shredded BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is, of course, the chicken. To make this dish, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are slow-cooked in a mixture of BBQ sauce and spices until they are tender and easily shredded.
You can use either fresh or frozen chicken breasts for this recipe, but be sure to thaw the frozen chicken first before cooking. It’s also important to note that you can adjust the amount of chicken to suit your needs, whether you’re making sandwiches for a small group or a large crowd.
How do I shred the chicken for the sandwiches?
Shredding the chicken for the sandwiches is a simple process that can be done using two forks. Once the chicken is cooked and tender, use the forks to pull it apart into shreds. You can also use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken, but be careful not to over-shred it.
It’s also important to note that you can shred the chicken while it’s still warm, as this will make it easier to shred. If you’re not using the chicken right away, you can let it cool and then refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
What type of BBQ sauce should I use for the sandwiches?
The type of BBQ sauce to use for the sandwiches is a matter of personal preference. You can use a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, a smoky BBQ sauce, or a spicy BBQ sauce, depending on your taste. Some popular brands of BBQ sauce include Kansas City Masterpiece, Sweet Baby Ray’s, and Bull’s-Eye.
You can also make your own BBQ sauce from scratch using a combination of ingredients such as ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. This will allow you to customize the flavor of the sauce to your liking.
What type of bread should I use for the sandwiches?
The type of bread to use for the sandwiches is also a matter of personal preference. You can use a soft and fluffy bun, a crusty baguette, or a hearty ciabatta, depending on your taste. Some popular types of bread for BBQ chicken sandwiches include brioche buns, pretzel buns, and onion buns.
You can also toast the bread before assembling the sandwiches to give it a crispy texture and a nutty flavor. This will help to balance out the softness of the chicken and the BBQ sauce.
Can I add any toppings to the sandwiches?
Yes, you can add a variety of toppings to the sandwiches to give them extra flavor and texture. Some popular toppings for BBQ chicken sandwiches include coleslaw, pickles, onions, and jalapenos. You can also add some crispy bacon, melted cheese, or a dollop of sour cream to give the sandwiches a rich and creamy flavor.
The key is to balance out the toppings so that they don’t overpower the flavor of the chicken and the BBQ sauce. You can also let everyone customize their own sandwiches with their favorite toppings.
Can I make the sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them for later use. To make the sandwiches ahead of time, simply cook the chicken and shred it, then assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate or freeze them.
You can also make the chicken and BBQ sauce ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator or freezer. This will allow you to assemble the sandwiches at the last minute and serve them fresh.
Are Shredded BBQ Chicken Sandwiches suitable for a crowd?
Yes, Shredded BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for a crowd. They are easy to make in large quantities and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. You can also make them ahead of time and serve them at a buffet or picnic.
To make the sandwiches for a crowd, simply multiply the ingredients and cook the chicken in large batches. You can also set up a toppings bar with a variety of toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, and onions, and let everyone customize their own sandwiches.