Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw Slow Cooker Recipe For Easy Meals

Why You’ll Love This Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw

This BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw is a hearty favorite that brings smoky, tangy flavors to your table with minimal effort, perfect for family gatherings or quick dinners. If you’ve ever turned leftover chicken into something magical, like I did after a backyard cookout, you’ll appreciate how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. It’s designed for home cooks and busy parents who want big taste without the wait.

• Ease of preparation: One of the standout features of this BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw is its quick setup, taking just 15 minutes of prep before the slow cooker handles the rest for 3 to 8 hours. You toss everything in, shred, and assemble, making it a breeze for students or working pros who need meals ready with little hands-on time. This simplicity turns a basic BBQ chicken sandwich into a stress-free option for any day, proving you don’t need hours to create something delicious.
• Health benefits: Loaded with lean protein from chicken and fresh veggies in the coleslaw, this BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw supports wellness by delivering nutrients like vitamin C and fiber, as highlighted in resources on the health benefits of chicken. Each serving packs about 34g of protein and 2g of fiber, helping with energy and digestion while keeping calories around 508, making it a smart pick for diet-conscious eaters looking for balance without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatility: This BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw adapts easily to different dietary needs, from swapping chicken for plant-based options to using gluten-free buns, so it’s ideal for mixed groups like travelers or newlyweds. You can serve it as a bowl, wrap, or traditional sandwich, adjusting for vegan tweaks or lighter versions, which keeps it exciting and accommodating for everyone’s preferences.
• Distinctive flavor: What really makes this BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw shine is the bold, smoky BBQ sauce paired with crunchy, tangy coleslaw, creating a contrast that stands out from regular sandwiches. The mix of honey, vinegar, and spices adds a fresh twist, turning pulled chicken into a juicy, flavorful delight that’s hard to resist, especially with garnishes like pickles for extra zing.

At about 250 words, this BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw is a go-to recipe that’s as practical as it is tasty, perfect for creating those memorable meals.

Essential Ingredients for Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw

Selecting the right ingredients is key to a mouthwatering BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw, and this list covers everything with precise measurements and benefits. It’s all about balancing flavors and nutrition for a standout meal.

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (chicken thighs can also be used) – Offers lean protein and tender texture, serving as the hearty base that absorbs the BBQ flavors in your BBQ chicken sandwich.
• 1 large diced onion – Adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall sauce while providing a subtle crunch to the pulled chicken mixture.
• 2 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade; mix 1 cup ketchup, ½ cup unsalted chicken stock, 4 tablespoons melted butter, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder, 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt) – Creates the signature tangy, smoky glaze that makes the BBQ chicken sandwich irresistible and ties all flavors together.
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) – Forms the creamy dressing for the coleslaw, with Greek yogurt offering a lighter, tangier alternative for a healthier twist.
• 2 tablespoons honey – Brings a touch of sweetness to the coleslaw, balancing acidity and making your BBQ chicken sandwich more dynamic.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Adds tang and zest to the coleslaw, aiding digestion with its natural probiotics and pairing well with the BBQ sauce.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Seasons the coleslaw perfectly, enhancing the fresh veggies and ensuring every bite of the BBQ chicken sandwich pops.
• Fresh ground pepper to taste – Provides a mild spice that complements the BBQ elements without overpowering the sandwich’s fresh profile.
• 2 cups shredded green cabbage – Contributes crunch and nutrients like vitamin C, as noted in coleslaw benefits, adding balance to the rich chicken in your BBQ chicken sandwich.
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage – Brings color and additional fiber, boosting the coleslaw’s health appeal and textural contrast in the sandwich.
• ½ large shredded carrot – Adds sweetness and vitamins, like those that support eye health, for a nutritious crunch in the coleslaw.
• Fresh cilantro to taste (optional; add ¼ cup chopped cilantro, ½ minced jalapeño, and juice from 1 lime for extra kick) – Infuses herbal freshness and a citrusy note, elevating the coleslaw’s flavor in your BBQ chicken sandwich.
• Hamburger buns or gluten-free buns (about 8 buns) – Acts as the vessel, with toasting adding extra texture and making the BBQ chicken sandwich more enjoyable.
• Sliced dill pickles (about 4-8 slices) – Offers a tangy, crisp garnish that cuts through the richness and enhances the overall taste.

Special Dietary Options

Adapt this BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw to fit various needs for a more inclusive meal.

• Vegan: Swap chicken with plant-based alternatives like tofu or jackfruit shreds (use 2 pounds), and replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo to maintain the creamy coleslaw vibe.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free buns instead of regular ones, keeping the BBQ chicken sandwich structure intact for those avoiding gluten.
• Low-calorie: Opt for Greek yogurt in coleslaw and skip added butter, focusing on veggies to lighten up the BBQ chicken sandwich without losing flavor.

This list, at around 300 words, ensures your BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw is prepped for success.

How to Prepare the Perfect Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw: Step-by-Step Guide

Making a BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw is straightforward and rewarding, ready in about 8 hours with just 15 minutes of active work perfect for slow cooker fans or busy folks like me during weeknights. If you recall that time I turned a simple chicken prep into a family hit, this recipe brings that ease with a smoky twist. Let’s break it down step by step, including tips for adapting to different diets.

First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by organizing everything on your counter for a smooth process, taking about 10 minutes to measure and chop. Place 2 pounds of chicken breasts in the slow cooker, dice 1 large onion, and mix up 2 cups of BBQ sauce if making it fresh combine 1 cup ketchup, ½ cup chicken stock, and other seasonings as listed. For vegan swaps, have plant-based chicken ready, and prep coleslaw veggies like 2 cups shredded green cabbage and ½ shredded carrot. This step sets up your BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw for success, ensuring all components are handy before cooking begins.

Second Step: Cook the Chicken

Pour the 2 cups BBQ sauce into the slow cooker, add the diced onion, and stir to blend, which takes under 2 minutes. Toss in the chicken breasts to coat evenly, cover the cooker, and set it to high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until tender. Using chicken thighs here can add moisture for low-calorie versions, and the slow heat keeps flavors rich without constant monitoring. Once done, remove and shred the chicken with forks, letting it soak in the sauce for extra juiciness this part makes the BBQ chicken sandwich irresistible and adaptable for gluten-free preferences by prepping fillings separately.

Third Step: Prepare the Coleslaw

While the chicken cooks, mix the coleslaw in a large bowl, stirring ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon salt, and fresh ground pepper until smooth this takes about 5 minutes. Add 2 cups shredded green cabbage, 1 cup purple cabbage, ½ shredded carrot, and optional cilantro or jalapeño, tossing well for that crunchy contrast. For variations, incorporate 4 tablespoons Dijon mustard or some BBQ sauce into the mix if you want a tangier coleslaw, adapting for tastes like a lighter Greek yogurt base to keep your BBQ chicken sandwich fresh and healthy.

Fourth Step: Assemble the Sandwich

Toast 8 buns with a bit of butter in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side for added crunch, then layer ½ cup shredded chicken on each bottom bun. Top with a generous scoop of coleslaw and 4-8 sliced dill pickle slices, pressing gently this assembly is quick, about 5 minutes total. If going gluten-free, use gluten-free buns, or for vegan diners, assemble with plant-based fillings to maintain the BBQ chicken sandwich’s appeal for everyone at the table.

Fifth Step: Finish and Serve

Cut the sandwiches in half for easier eating and serve warm to capture the best texture, perhaps with sides like a fresh salad for balance this final step takes under 2 minutes. For picnics or meals, add extras like arugula if desired, ensuring your BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw is ready to impress. With about 700 words, this guide helps you master the recipe, turning simple prep into a flavorful, adaptable meal that suits any occasion.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Switching the protein in your BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw can tailor it to various needs, such as using tempeh or seitan instead of chicken for a plant-based version, with the same 2 pounds quantity to keep portions consistent.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Customizing veggies might mean swapping cabbage for broccoli slaw in your BBQ chicken sandwich, or opting for a lighter sauce like one with Greek yogurt to reduce calories based on seasons. For seasonings, add lime juice for a zesty kick, maintaining the sandwich’s appeal while adapting for dietary preferences. At about 350 words total, these changes keep the BBQ chicken sandwich versatile and exciting.

Mastering Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw further involves smart tips and creative spins that make it even more enjoyable for meals on the go. From pro methods to fun twists, let’s amp up that barbecue goodness.

Pro Cooking Techniques

Use a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours to tenderize the chicken fully, or grill for quicker crisping, ensuring the meat stays moist in your BBQ chicken sandwich.

Flavor Variations

Experiment with homemade BBQ sauce tweaks, like adding Dijon mustard for tang, and draw from ideas in our nacho cheese beef wrap for new seasoning mixes that elevate the coleslaw in your BBQ chicken sandwich.

Presentation Tips

Layer coleslaw neatly on top and garnish with fresh herbs for a colorful look, making your BBQ chicken sandwich photo-ready for picnics or dinner.

Make-Ahead Options

Prep the chicken and coleslaw separately up to 5 days ahead, storing them chilled for quick assembly, so your BBQ chicken sandwich is always ready for busy days. With about 350 words, these ideas add depth to your recipe routine.

How to Store Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw: Best Practices

Keeping your BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw fresh ensures it tastes just as good later, with easy methods for storage.

Refrigeration

Store components separately in the fridge for up to 5 days, keeping coleslaw fresh to avoid wilting in your BBQ chicken sandwich.

Freezing

Freeze pulled chicken for up to 3 months, thawing overnight for a quick BBQ chicken sandwich rebuild when needed.

Reheating

Warm chicken in a pan on low heat for 2-3 minutes to retain moisture, ensuring your BBQ chicken sandwich stays flavorful and safe.

Meal Prep Considerations

Batch cook and store parts for easy lunches, making the BBQ chicken sandwich a handy option for on-the-go meals. At about 250 words, this helps keep things tasty and simple.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw

Bbq Chicken Sandwich With Coleslaw

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 sandwiches 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

🍗 This BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Coleslaw Slow Cooker Recipe offers tender, juicy chicken slow-cooked in rich BBQ sauce for an easy, flavorful meal.
🥗 The crisp, tangy coleslaw complements the savory chicken perfectly, making it a satisfying and balanced dish for quick dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts offers lean protein and tender texture, serving as the hearty base that absorbs the BBQ flavors in your BBQ chicken sandwich

1 large diced onion adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall sauce while providing a subtle crunch to the pulled chicken mixture

2 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade; mix 1 cup ketchup, ½ cup unsalted chicken stock, 4 tablespoons melted butter, 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder, 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt) creates the signature tangy, smoky glaze that makes the BBQ chicken sandwich irresistible and ties all flavors together

½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) forms the creamy dressing for the coleslaw, with Greek yogurt offering a lighter, tangier alternative for a healthier twist

2 tablespoons honey brings a touch of sweetness to the coleslaw, balancing acidity and making your BBQ chicken sandwich more dynamic

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar adds tang and zest to the coleslaw, aiding digestion with its natural probiotics and pairing well with the BBQ sauce

½ teaspoon salt seasons the coleslaw perfectly, enhancing the fresh veggies and ensuring every bite of the BBQ chicken sandwich pops

Fresh ground pepper to taste provides a mild spice that complements the BBQ elements without overpowering the sandwich’s fresh profile

2 cups shredded green cabbage contributes crunch and nutrients like vitamin C, as noted in coleslaw benefits, adding balance to the rich chicken in your BBQ chicken sandwich

1 cup shredded purple cabbage brings color and additional fiber, boosting the coleslaw’s health appeal and textural contrast in the sandwich

½ large shredded carrot adds sweetness and vitamins, like those that support eye health, for a nutritious crunch in the coleslaw

Fresh cilantro to taste (optional; add ¼ cup chopped cilantro, ½ minced jalapeño, and juice from 1 lime for extra kick) infuses herbal freshness and a citrusy note, elevating the coleslaw’s flavor in your BBQ chicken sandwich

Hamburger buns or gluten-free buns (about 8 buns) acts as the vessel, with toasting adding extra texture and making the BBQ chicken sandwich more enjoyable

Sliced dill pickles (about 4-8 slices) offers a tangy, crisp garnish that cuts through the richness and enhances the overall taste

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Instructions

First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients Start by organizing everything on your counter for a smooth process, taking about 10 minutes to measure and chop. Place 2 pounds of chicken breasts in the slow cooker, dice 1 large onion, and mix up 2 cups of BBQ sauce if making it fresh combine 1 cup ketchup, ½ cup chicken stock, and other seasonings as listed. For vegan swaps, have plant-based chicken ready, and prep coleslaw veggies like 2 cups shredded green cabbage and ½ shredded carrot. This step sets up your BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw for success, ensuring all components are handy before cooking begins.

Second Step: Cook the Chicken Pour the 2 cups BBQ sauce into the slow cooker, add the diced onion, and stir to blend, which takes under 2 minutes. Toss in the chicken breasts to coat evenly, cover the cooker, and set it to high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until tender. Using chicken thighs here can add moisture for low-calorie versions, and the slow heat keeps flavors rich without constant monitoring. Once done, remove and shred the chicken with forks, letting it soak in the sauce for extra juiciness this part makes the BBQ chicken sandwich irresistible and adaptable for gluten-free preferences by prepping fillings separately.

Third Step: Prepare the Coleslaw While the chicken cooks, mix the coleslaw in a large bowl, stirring ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon salt, and fresh ground pepper until smooth this takes about 5 minutes. Add 2 cups shredded green cabbage, 1 cup purple cabbage, ½ shredded carrot, and optional cilantro or jalapeño, tossing well for that crunchy contrast. For variations, incorporate 4 tablespoons Dijon mustard or some BBQ sauce into the mix if you want a tangier coleslaw, adapting for tastes like a lighter Greek yogurt base to keep your BBQ chicken sandwich fresh and healthy.

Fourth Step: Assemble the Sandwich Toast 8 buns with a bit of butter in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side for added crunch, then layer ½ cup shredded chicken on each bottom bun. Top with a generous scoop of coleslaw and 4-8 sliced dill pickle slices, pressing gently this assembly is quick, about 5 minutes total. If going gluten-free, use gluten-free buns, or for vegan diners, assemble with plant-based fillings to maintain the BBQ chicken sandwich’s appeal for everyone at the table.

Fifth Step: Finish and Serve Cut the sandwiches in half for easier eating and serve warm to capture the best texture, perhaps with sides like a fresh salad for balance this final step takes under 2 minutes. For picnics or meals, add extras like arugula if desired, ensuring your BBQ chicken sandwich with coleslaw is ready to impress. With about 700 words, this guide helps you master the recipe, turning simple prep into a flavorful, adaptable meal that suits any occasion.

Notes

🔥 Serve pulled chicken over grains like rice or quinoa for a lighter meal option.
🍗 Using chicken thighs adds extra moisture and richer flavor.
🥬 Toast buns with butter to prevent sogginess and add texture and flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich
• Calories: 508 kcal
• Sugar: 40 g
• Sodium: 1483 mg
• Fat: 19 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg

Keywords: BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Slow Cooker Chicken, Coleslaw Sandwich, Easy Meals