BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw are a delightful blend of tender, juicy chicken smothered in tangy barbecue sauce, nestled inside whole wheat rolls, and topped with crisp, creamy coleslaw. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. The combination of flavors and textures — from the smoky, savory chicken to the refreshing crunch of the coleslaw — makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and uses wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Why Cooks Rave About It

This recipe for BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw has everyone talking for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time while delivering big on flavor. The chicken breasts cook until tender and juicy, then pull apart effortlessly, soaking up the BBQ sauce perfectly. The whole wheat rolls add a nutty, wholesome base that keeps the sandwiches hearty without feeling heavy. Finally, the coleslaw adds a cool, tangy contrast that perfectly balances the smoky sweetness of the chicken.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, these sandwiches are versatile and satisfying. They also offer a lighter alternative to traditional pulled pork options, making them ideal for those looking for a leaner protein choice without sacrificing taste. And if you love recipes with a homey, comforting vibe, you’ll adore this one.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star protein, lean and tender.
• 1 cup BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite brand or homemade for that smoky, tangy glaze.
• 4 whole wheat sandwich rolls – Adds fiber and a nutty flavor.
• 1 cup coleslaw mix – A ready-to-go blend of shredded cabbage and carrots for crunch.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise – For creamy coleslaw dressing.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Adds brightness and a subtle tang to the slaw.
• 1 tablespoon honey – Balances acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasoning for all components.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the chicken to juicy perfection.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large skillet or frying pan – To cook the chicken breasts evenly.
• Mixing bowl – For tossing the coleslaw ingredients together.
• Forks or meat claws – For pulling apart the cooked chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Knife and cutting board – For slicing rolls and prepping any extra ingredients.
• Spatula or tongs – To flip and move chicken while cooking.

The Method for BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.

Step 2: Pull the Chicken

Using two forks, shred the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces right in the skillet or transfer to a bowl to do this step. This pulled chicken will soak up the BBQ sauce beautifully, so don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Toss with BBQ Sauce

Pour the cup of BBQ sauce over the shredded chicken and gently stir until all the chicken is coated evenly. Keep the skillet on low heat or place it back on the burner for a couple of minutes just to warm everything through.

Step 4: Prepare the Coleslaw

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the dressing evenly coats the cabbage and carrots. Adjust seasoning to taste. This coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the BBQ chicken perfectly.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Slice each whole wheat roll in half. Pile a generous amount of the BBQ pulled chicken on the bottom half of each roll, then top with a heaping spoonful of coleslaw. Add the top half of the roll and gently press down.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these sandwiches immediately while warm. They pair wonderfully with simple sides like baked beans or a crisp green salad.

For a little twist, try these BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw next to some Air Fryer Chicken And Potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Replace chicken breasts with jackfruit for that pulled texture.
• Use vegan BBQ sauce and vegan mayonnaise for the coleslaw.
• Swap whole wheat rolls with gluten-free or vegan bread options.
• Use plant-based protein crumbles or shredded mushrooms as a chicken alternative.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

• Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here because they shred easily and soak up sauce well. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, slightly fattier option.
• BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors — smoky, spicy, or sweet — depending on your preference.
• Coleslaw Dressing: If you like your slaw tangier, add a little extra apple cider vinegar. For creamier slaw, increase the mayonnaise slightly.
• Rolls: Whole wheat rolls add a lovely texture and nutrition boost, but you can swap them for brioche buns for a richer flavor.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance and keep it chilled. The pulled chicken can also be cooked and shredded ahead of time, just warm and toss with sauce before serving.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow any leftover BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw components to cool completely before storing. Keep the pulled chicken separate from the coleslaw to avoid sogginess.

• Storage: Store pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Coleslaw: Keep coleslaw in a separate container for up to 2 days for best freshness.
• Reheating: Warm the pulled chicken gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to maintain moisture.
• Sandwich Assembly: Assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep the rolls from becoming soggy.

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be more tender and juicy, which makes them perfect for shredding and mixing with BBQ sauce. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

Is there a shortcut to make this recipe even faster?

Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply shred the chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce. Then, proceed with assembling your sandwiches and coleslaw as usual.

How can I make the coleslaw less creamy and more tangy?

To create a lighter, tangier coleslaw, reduce the mayonnaise and increase the apple cider vinegar. You can also add a pinch of mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest.

Can I grill the sandwiches instead of serving them cold?

Yes! After assembling the sandwiches, grill them on a panini press or skillet for a few minutes until the rolls are toasted and the filling is warmed through. This adds a lovely crunch and melds the flavors beautifully.

What to Make After This

• Apple Cider Pulled Chicken Sandwiches – A sweet and tangy twist on pulled chicken sandwiches.
• Grilled Chicken Tenders – Perfectly seasoned chicken tenders grilled to juicy perfection.
• Air Fryer Chicken And Potatoes – An easy, crispy chicken and potato meal to complement your sandwiches.

See You at the Table

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw are more than just a meal—they’re an invitation to gather, share, and savor every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a simple solo dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every mouthful. So grab your skillet, pull out those rolls, and get ready for a sandwich experience you’ll want to make again and again. Happy eating!

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