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A Juicy Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Melted Cheese, Crispy Coleslaw (2)

This Is What Makes the Best BBQ Chicken Sandwich

This BBQ Chicken Sandwich is packed with smoky, tangy flavors and topped with a crunchy slaw for the perfect bite. Slow-cooked or grilled chicken is smothered in rich barbecue sauce, served on a toasted brioche bun, and paired with classic sides like coleslaw or crispy fries. This easy recipe is perfect for backyard BBQs, family dinners, or game-day meals!

  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (Slow Cooker) / 30 minutes (Grill)
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the BBQ Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

For the Sandwich:

  • 4 brioche buns (or your choice of burger buns)
  • 4 slices cheddar or smoked gouda cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)

For the Coleslaw (Optional, but Recommended!):

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or mix of green & purple)
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Toppings:

  • Pickles
  • Red onion slices
  • Crispy fried onions
  • Jalapeños

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the BBQ Chicken

  1. Slow Cooker Method: Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Add barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until tender.
  2. Grill Method: Season chicken with spices. Grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Brush with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix with additional barbecue sauce for a rich, juicy texture.

Step 2: Make the Coleslaw

  1. In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

  1. Heat a pan or grill over medium heat. Spread butter on the inside of each bun and toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

  1. Place a slice of cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
  2. Pile on the shredded BBQ chicken, followed by a generous scoop of coleslaw.
  3. Add optional toppings like pickles or crispy onions.
  4. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately!

Notes

  • For extra smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
  • Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper to the seasoning or drizzle sriracha over the chicken.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Shredded BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Healthier Alternative: Swap out the brioche bun for a whole wheat bun or lettuce wrap.
  • Author: Helda Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours (Slow Cooker) / 15 minutes (Grill)
  • Category: Sandwiches, Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker, Grilling
  • Cuisine: American, BBQ

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg