Easy BBQ Chicken Sandwich
The Easy BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a quick and flavorful meal featuring juicy, tender chicken coated in smoky barbecue sauce, served on soft sandwich buns. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe combines simple ingredients and easy steps to deliver bold flavors and satisfying textures in under 30 minutes.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (smoky or spicy variety)
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche, classic hamburger, or whole wheat)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Pickles
- Coleslaw
- Cheddar cheese (sharp or pepper jack)
- Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful base that enhances every bite.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Shred and toss in BBQ sauce: Remove the chicken from heat, shred or slice it, then toss it generously in your favorite barbecue sauce until well coated and glistening.
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the sandwich buns in a dry skillet or oven. This adds crunch and prevents sogginess from the saucy chicken.
- Assemble your sandwich: Layer the saucy chicken onto the bottom bun, add any optional toppings such as pickles or coleslaw, then cap with the top bun. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in barbecue sauce for 30 minutes before cooking to intensify flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Toast buns to prevent them from becoming soggy under the sauce.
- Fresh toppings like slaw or pickles add a refreshing crunch and contrast.
- For homemade BBQ sauce, mix ketchup, vinegar, molasses, and spices to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: BBQ chicken sandwich, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, smoky barbecue sauce, family-friendly meal, juicy chicken