Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches

There’s something about the smell of Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches that takes me back to summer barbecues with family and friends. I remember running around the backyard, laughter echoing in the air, while the savory aroma of chicken cooking low and slow filled the space. These sandwiches have become a staple for gatherings, as they never fail to impress. The tender, juicy chicken mixed with a homemade BBQ sauce and topped with a crunchy coleslaw makes for a perfect bite. Whenever I make them, I can’t help but feel nostalgic, as each mouthful brings back cherished memories. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a cozy family dinner, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit. You might find yourself making them more often than you think!

Essential Ingredients for Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches

The ingredients for Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches are not just simple; they come together in a way that creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role: the chicken is tender and juicy, while the BBQ sauce adds a sweet and smoky kick. The coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch, making every bite a little adventure.

• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Dressing: This creamy base binds the coleslaw ingredients together, creating a rich texture that contrasts beautifully with the chicken.
• 1/3 cup sugar: Adds sweetness to the coleslaw and balances out the tangy flavors.
• 1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk: Provides a tangy flavor while keeping the coleslaw light and refreshing.
• 3 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens up the coleslaw with a zesty kick.
• 1 tbsp white vinegar: Enhances the tangy flavor profile of the coleslaw.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the overall flavors.
• 1/8 tsp pepper: Adds a subtle bite to the coleslaw.
• 16 oz package of coleslaw mix: A convenient blend of shredded cabbage and carrots that adds crunch and color.
• 1/2 medium size onion: Offers depth and a hint of sweetness when sliced thin.
• 1 red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and sweetness to the mix.
• 1/2 cup cider vinegar: Gives the BBQ sauce a tangy depth.
• 3 tbsp brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
• 1 cup ketchup: The base for the BBQ sauce, providing richness and sweetness.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor in the BBQ sauce.
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami flavor to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp prepared yellow mustard: Introduces a slight tang and enhances the overall flavor.
• 2 tbsp honey: Provides natural sweetness to the BBQ sauce.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives the BBQ sauce a subtle kick of flavor.
• 1 tsp chili powder: Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the BBQ sauce.
• 1/2 tsp cumin: Introduces a warm, earthy flavor that rounds out the sauce.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Important for seasoning the BBQ sauce.
• 1/4 tsp pepper: Complements the other flavors and adds a bit of heat.
• dash of ground sage: Adds a hint of earthiness to the sauce.
• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star of the dish; I usually use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• 6 whole wheat hamburger buns: Toasted buns hold everything together and offer a satisfying crunch.

How to Make Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches

Making Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches is an adventure in flavors! You’ll love how each step builds on the other to create a delightful meal. Let’s dive into the process and savor the experience together.

1. Begin by preparing the coleslaw salad. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, buttermilk, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. I always enjoy watching the ingredients transform into a creamy mixture. The color should be pale and inviting.
2. Add the coleslaw mix (the shredded cabbage and carrots), along with the onion and red bell pepper. Toss everything together until well coated. The vibrant colors should make you smile! Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least one hour; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Meanwhile, it’s time to prepare the sweet BBQ sauce. In a medium pot, combine the remaining ingredients: cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, honey, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and a dash of ground sage. Whisk until smooth, noticing how the colors blend together to create a rich sauce.
4. Place the pot over medium-high heat. Bring the sauce to a boil, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to keep an eye on it as it bubbles; the aroma will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering scents. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 45 minutes. Stir occasionally, and enjoy the deepening flavors.
5. After 45 minutes, it’s time to stir in the shredded cooked chicken into the BBQ sauce. Make sure to coat each piece well. Let it heat through for about 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up all that delicious flavor.
6. While the chicken is heating, toast the whole wheat hamburger buns until they’re golden brown. The crunch from the toasted buns adds another layer of texture to your sandwiches.
7. Now comes the fun part! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and place about 3/4 cup of the BBQ shredded chicken on it. The chicken should be warm and coated in that sticky, sweet sauce.
8. Next, add about 1/2 cup of the coleslaw salad on top of the chicken. The crunch of the coleslaw perfectly complements the tender chicken.
9. Finally, finish each sandwich by adding the top half of the hamburger bun. Press down gently to hold everything together. It’s a satisfying sight to see them all stacked up!
10. Repeat this process for the remaining sandwiches. Serve them warm and watch as your guests gather around, eager for a taste of these delightful Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches.

Expert Tips about Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches

To make the most of your Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches, I’ve gathered some practical tips that can enhance your cooking experience. These pointers will help you nail this recipe every time!

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the chicken and coleslaw separately to keep the buns from getting soggy.
• Freezing: You can freeze the BBQ shredded chicken in an airtight container for up to two months. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to use it.
• Pairing: Serve these sandwiches with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar levels in the coleslaw and BBQ sauce to your preference.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ sauce and coleslaw a day in advance to save time on the day of serving.

Best Served With

You’ll find that Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches shine brightest when paired with the right sides and served on special occasions.

• Classic Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad complements the barbecue flavor beautifully and adds a satisfying side.
• Fresh Corn on the Cob: Nothing says summer like sweet corn. Grill it up and let it shine alongside your sandwiches.
• Chips and Dip: A crunchy side like tortilla chips with salsa can add a fun twist to your meal.
• Picnic Favorite: These sandwiches are perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings, where they can be easily assembled and enjoyed.
• Seasonal Salads: Pair with a light green salad topped with seasonal veggies for a refreshing complement.
• Comforting Baked Beans: A side of baked beans adds heartiness and enhances the southern BBQ experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches are the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that make them stand out at any gathering or family dinner. They’re easy to prepare, full of flavor, and are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. I highly encourage you to give them a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!

Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches

The ultimate comfort food, Sweet BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches are packed with juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy coleslaw. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinners, they offer a delicious blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings. Make them tonight for a quick and easy weeknight dinner!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Dressing
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp pepper
• 16 oz package of coleslaw mix shredded cabbage and carrot mix
• 1/2 medium size onion thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper red bell pepper thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup cider vinegar
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp prepared yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• dash of ground sage dash of ground sage
• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken I buy a rotisserie chicken and pull the chicken off the bones.
• 6 whole wheat hamburger buns whole wheat hamburger buns toasted

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Large Pot
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Begin by preparing the coleslaw salad. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, buttermilk, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Add the coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots), sliced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Then toss to coat. Cover and place in fridge for at least 1 hour.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the sweet BBQ sauce. In a medium pot, combine the remaining ingredients (except for the shredded chicken and hamburger buns) over medium-high heat. Whisk until smooth, bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to low. Let sauce simmer, stirring occasionally for 45 minutes. Stir the shredded chicken in the BBQ sauce until heated throughout.
3. Toast the hamburger buns.
4. Place about 3/4 cup of the BBQ shredded chicken on the bottom half of a hamburger bun, followed by about a 1/2 cup of the coleslaw salad; finish with the top half of the hamburger bun.
5. Repeat for the remaining sandwiches.

Notes

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the chicken and coleslaw separately to keep the buns from getting soggy.
• Freezing: You can freeze the BBQ shredded chicken in an airtight container for up to two months. Just reheat it gently when you're ready to use it.
• Pairing: Serve these sandwiches with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar levels in the coleslaw and BBQ sauce to your preference.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the BBQ sauce and coleslaw a day in advance to save time on the day of serving.

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Meet Diana Foster

I appreciate the beauty of a well-made meal, but I also value simplicity. I’m always looking for that perfect balance of big flavor and low stress. I developed this recipe to be reliable, tasty, and perfect for your daily rotation.