Print

Easy Budget BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and affordable recipe for tender, juicy pulled chicken with tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for casual meals and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought, e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 to 6 soft burger buns
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickle slices, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  2. In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well.
  3. Place chopped onion and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay chicken thighs on top and pour BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2.5 to 3 hours until chicken is tender and shreds easily. For Instant Pot, use Slow Cook setting for same times or Pressure Cook for 15 minutes with natural release.
  5. Remove chicken and shred with two forks. Return shredded chicken to slow cooker and stir to coat with sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Toast burger buns if desired. Assemble sandwiches by piling pulled chicken on buns and adding optional toppings.
  7. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

If sauce is too thin after shredding, thicken by simmering uncovered on high for 10 minutes or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water. Chicken breasts can be used but may dry out. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Optional spicy variation: add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to BBQ sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ pulled chicken, pulled chicken sandwiches, slow cooker chicken, quick meals, budget-friendly, BBQ sauce, easy dinner

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/easy-budget-bbq-pulled-chicken-sandwiches-recipe-for-quick-meals/