BBQ Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

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

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

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

Coleslaw: Optional, but adds a nice crunch and freshness to the sandwich.

To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy and flavorful, consider marinating them in a mixture of bbq sauce and a bit of olive oil for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect doneness; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. When toasting the burger buns, spread a thin layer of butter or garlic butter on the cut sides for an extra layer of flavor.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the BBQ sauce well.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor that complements the chicken similarly to BBQ sauce.

• burger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer a healthier alternative and add a nutty flavor to the sandwich.

• optional coleslaw - Substitute with pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy crunch that can enhance the overall flavor profile of the sandwich.

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

• Place the cooled chicken breasts in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This will keep them fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.

• Store the burger buns separately from the chicken to maintain their texture. You can keep them in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container.

• If you have leftover coleslaw, store it in a separate airtight container to keep it crisp and fresh.

• For freezing, wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn and makes it easy to thaw only what you need.

• Label the freezer bags with the date to keep track of how long the chicken has been stored. BBQ chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• To reheat, thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

• Toast the burger buns fresh before assembling the sandwiches to ensure they are warm and slightly crispy.

• If you prefer, you can also reheat the chicken on the grill for a few minutes to regain that freshly grilled flavor.

• Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap each BBQ chicken sandwich in aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Place the wrapped sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the BBQ chicken sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent the bread from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a crispy bun, try reheating in a skillet. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the BBQ chicken sandwich in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is hot and the bun is toasted.

• For those with an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place the BBQ chicken sandwich in the air fryer basket and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method will give you a crispy bun and evenly heated chicken.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F. Wrap the BBQ chicken sandwich in aluminum foil and place it on the toaster oven rack. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly warmed.

• Grill: Used to cook the chicken breasts to perfection, giving them a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.

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

• Basting brush: Used to apply the bbq sauce to the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling.

• Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 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 from the chicken breasts before cooking.

• Small bowl: Handy for holding the bbq sauce while you brush it onto the chicken.

• Spatula: Useful for toasting the burger buns on the grill without burning them.

• Plate: For assembling the sandwiches and serving them once they are ready.

• Serving spoon: If you choose to add coleslaw, this will help you scoop and place it onto the sandwich.

Pre-marinate the chicken: Marinate the chicken breasts in bbq sauce the night before to save time and enhance flavor.

Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without guessing by using a meat thermometer.

Pre-make coleslaw: Prepare the coleslaw in advance and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of cooking.

Grill everything together: Toast the burger buns on the grill while the chicken is cooking to streamline the process.