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BBQ chicken sandwiches are a timeless favorite, loved for their rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether served at summer cookouts, family gatherings, or cozy dinners, these sandwiches promise a delightful experience that brings everyone together. The star of this dish, the smoky pulled chicken, is not only tender and juicy but also infused with a depth of flavor that elevates it beyond the ordinary. With the right combination of spices, marinades, and cooking techniques, you can create a BBQ chicken sandwich that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Smoky Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Discover the ultimate comfort food with smoky pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches! Perfect for cookouts or cozy dinners, these sandwiches feature tender, juicy chicken infused with rich flavors from our delicious marinade and spices. Use high-quality chicken thighs and a variety of BBQ sauces to create your own spin. Top with crunchy coleslaw and tangy pickles for a delightful taste experience. Elevate your gatherings with this crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, sliced

4 hamburger buns

Coleslaw (for topping)

Pickles (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

    Coat the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).

      Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.

        Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the marinated chicken thighs and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

          Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and add the BBQ sauce to the skillet, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for about 25 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.

            Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the skillet and stir it into the BBQ sauce. Let simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to soak up the flavors.

              Prepare the Buns: While the chicken is simmering, lightly toast the hamburger buns on a skillet or grill until golden brown.

                Assemble the Sandwiches: Spoon a generous portion of the smoky pulled BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with the caramelized onions and a scoop of coleslaw. Add pickles if desired, and finish with the top half of the bun.

                  Serve: Serve the smoky pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches hot, accompanied by extra BBQ sauce and your favorite sides, such as potato chips or baked beans.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings