There’s something irresistible about tender, smoky pulled chicken drenched in barbecue sauce—juicy shreds piled high on a soft bun, stuffed into sliders for game day, or even loaded onto nachos for a next-level twist. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard cookout, prepping an easy weeknight dinner, or feeding a hungry crowd, BBQ pulled chicken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
This roundup brings you 12 finger-licking-good recipes that take pulled chicken from basic to brilliant. Think sticky-sweet Kansas City-style glazes, spicy Alabama white sauce drizzles, and tangy Carolina vinegar kicks. Maybe you’re craving classic smoked chicken with a deep, woody char, or perhaps you want a quick slow-cooker version that practically makes itself. From piled-high sandwiches with crunchy slaw to cheesy BBQ chicken melts, crispy tacos, and even pulled chicken-stuffed baked potatoes, these recipes prove just how versatile (and downright delicious) this protein can be.
We’ve included pro tips for keeping the meat juicy, balancing smoky and sweet flavors, and picking the best buns to hold it all together. Plus, plenty of ideas for sides—think buttery cornbread, crisp pickles, or creamy mac and cheese—to round out the meal. So grab your favorite BBQ sauce (or make your own!), and let’s dig into these mouthwatering pulled chicken creations.
Sweet and Tangy Apple BBQ Pulled Chicken
This Sweet and Tangy Apple BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe is a delightful twist on your classic BBQ. The combination of juicy pulled chicken with a sauce made from apples adds a unique sweetness that perfectly balances the tanginess of barbecue flavors. It’s a simple dish to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. Serve it piled high on your favorite buns with fresh apple slaw for a crunchy finish, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup apple barbecue sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded green and red apples for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a slow cooker, add chicken breasts, onion, garlic, apple barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce, letting it soak up the flavors.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Pile high with the pulled chicken mixture and top with shredded apples for a refreshing crunch.
- Serve: Enjoy your sweet and tangy apple BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches with your favorite side dishes!
Tropical Pineapple BBQ Pulled Chicken
This Tropical Pineapple BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe brings a burst of island flavor to your dinner table. Sweet and tangy pineapple pairs perfectly with savory pulled chicken, creating a delightful taste that’s sure to please everyone. It’s simple to whip up, making it a great option for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.
The combination of juicy chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and fresh pineapple chunks creates a tropical twist that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Serve it on a soft bun for sandwiches or as a filling for sliders, and watch it disappear!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Buns for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and ground ginger. Cook until browned on both sides.
- Pour in the barbecue sauce and soy sauce, then add the diced pineapple. Stir to combine.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir to mix it with the sauce.
- Serve the pulled chicken on buns, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy your tropical twist!
Mediterranean Pulled Chicken Wraps
These Mediterranean Pulled Chicken Wraps are a delicious twist on traditional pulled chicken. They’re packed with vibrant flavors from fresh vegetables and herbs, making them a refreshing choice for lunch or dinner. Easy to prepare, these wraps will leave you feeling satisfied without being overly heavy.
The combination of tender pulled chicken, crisp veggies, and zesty sauces creates a delightful taste experience. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or on the go, these wraps are perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pulled chicken
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup hummus
- 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce
- 4 large tortilla wraps
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cooked pulled chicken with salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is seasoned.
- Assemble the Wraps: Lay out a tortilla wrap and spread a layer of hummus in the center. Add a portion of pulled chicken, followed by diced cucumbers, bell peppers, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add Sauce: Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the top of the veggies for added flavor.
- Wrap it Up: Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards and then roll it tightly from the bottom upwards to create a wrap.
- Serve: Cut the wraps in half, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and enjoy!
Spicy Chipotle Pulled Chicken Sliders
These spicy chipotle pulled chicken sliders bring a perfect kick to your picnic or game day spread. The tender chicken is infused with smoky chipotle flavors, creating a tasty filling that’s both spicy and savory. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to whip up, making them a favorite for any casual gathering.
Serve these sliders with a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing and topped with fresh jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor. They make a great handheld snack or a delicious main dish that will please a crowd!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slider buns
- Ranch dressing
- Fresh jalapeños, sliced
- Cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a slow cooker, add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the sauce.
- Assemble the Sliders: Toast the slider buns, then pile on the spicy pulled chicken. Drizzle with ranch dressing and top with sliced jalapeños.
- Garnish: Finish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!
Pulled Chicken BBQ Tacos
These Pulled Chicken BBQ Tacos are a fun twist on the classic BBQ flavor, perfect for any day of the week. The juicy shredded chicken is bathed in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, then piled high into soft corn tortillas, making for a quick and satisfying meal. Top them off with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime to brighten up the flavors.
This recipe is easy to whip up, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just looking for a family-friendly dinner option. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for topping
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Place them in a slow cooker.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce over the seasoned chicken. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the BBQ sauce.
- Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Fill each tortilla with the pulled chicken, and top with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Classic BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich
This classic BBQ pulled chicken sandwich is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any gathering. With tender, shredded chicken coated in a tangy barbecue sauce, each bite is a delightful mix of smoky and sweet flavors. It’s simple to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
The best part? You can customize your sandwich with toppings like coleslaw, pickles, or extra sauce, making it a versatile choice for everyone. Serve it on a soft bun, and you have a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Coleslaw for topping (optional)
- Pickles for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Pile the pulled chicken onto each bun and top with coleslaw and pickles if using.
- Serve: Enjoy your BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches warm with your favorite sides!
Smoky Bourbon BBQ Pulled Chicken
Smoky Bourbon BBQ Pulled Chicken is a delicious twist on the classic BBQ dish, bringing a rich, smoky flavor balanced with a hint of sweetness from the bourbon. This dish is not only tasty but also simple to make, making it perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
The tender pulled chicken, combined with a savory BBQ sauce, creates a hearty filling for sandwiches, sliders, or even tacos. It’s a versatile recipe that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup bourbon
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- Sandwich buns for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs, bourbon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: In a slow cooker, add the marinated chicken, chopped onions, and bell peppers. Pour the BBQ sauce over the top. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it well with the sauce and vegetables in the slow cooker. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Spoon the smoky bourbon pulled chicken onto sandwich buns and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Salad Bowl
This BBQ Pulled Chicken Salad Bowl is a fantastic way to enjoy a savory meal that’s bursting with flavors. With tender pulled chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy BBQ dressing, it’s not just delicious but also super easy to whip up. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this bowl is both satisfying and refreshing.
The combination of smoky pulled chicken, crisp greens, and vibrant toppings makes each bite a joy. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken or prepare ahead for meal prep. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pulled chicken
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the pulled chicken with BBQ sauce. Mix well until the chicken is coated.
- In a large serving bowl, layer the mixed salad greens as the base.
- Top the greens with BBQ chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and black olives.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your colorful, flavorful BBQ Pulled Chicken Salad Bowl!
Asian-Inspired Pulled Chicken Buns
These Asian-inspired pulled chicken buns bring a delightful twist to your usual BBQ fare. With tender, flavorful chicken enveloped in soft, fluffy buns, they deliver a sweet and savory taste that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for any gathering, this recipe is simple enough for any home cook to tackle.
The combination of tangy sauces and crunchy slaw elevates these buns, making them a hit for both casual dinners and special occasions. Serve them warm, and watch as family and friends devour every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 8 steamed buns
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup carrots, julienned
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Cilantro for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and place it in a skillet over medium heat. Reserve the marinade. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through.
- Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the reserved marinade, cornstarch, and water. Bring to a boil, stirring until thickened. Pour this sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat.
- Assemble the Buns: Slice the steamed buns in half and fill each with pieces of pulled chicken. Top with shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with cilantro and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!
Buffalo BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
If you’re craving a tasty and easy meal, Buffalo BBQ pulled chicken sliders are perfect! These sliders combine tender pulled chicken with a spicy and tangy buffalo BBQ sauce, creating a delicious flavor that will satisfy your taste buds. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, making them ideal for a casual gathering or game day.
The sliders are not just tasty but also versatile. You can serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside crunchy veggies for a complete meal. Everyone will love grabbing these small bites, and they’re sure to be a hit at your next event!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 slider buns
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix in the buffalo sauce and BBQ sauce. Stir until well combined and let it warm for another 30 minutes.
- Assemble the Sliders: Toast the slider buns if desired. Spoon the buffalo BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each bun. Drizzle with blue cheese or ranch dressing, then top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sliders warm with celery sticks and extra dressing on the side!
Pulled Chicken BBQ Pizza
This Pulled Chicken BBQ Pizza combines the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ sauce with tender, shredded chicken and fresh toppings, creating a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this pizza is sure to please everyone.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can use pre-made pizza dough or make your own, and the pulled chicken can be cooked in advance, making assembly a breeze. With a base of zesty BBQ sauce, topped with chicken, cheese, and your choice of fresh herbs or veggies, this pizza is a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza dough or homemade dough
- 1 cup shredded BBQ chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup dollops of sour cream
- Olive oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and prepare a pizza stone or baking sheet.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness and place it on the prepared stone or sheet.
- Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and spread the BBQ sauce evenly over the surface.
- Evenly distribute the shredded chicken over the BBQ sauce, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and add the sliced red onion.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Top with fresh cilantro and dollops of sour cream before slicing and serving.
Honey Mustard BBQ Pulled Chicken
This Honey Mustard BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe is a sweet and tangy delight that’s perfect for any gathering. The combination of honey and mustard creates a rich flavor profile that complements the tender pulled chicken beautifully. Plus, it’s super simple to make, which makes it a great option for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.
Whether you serve it on a fresh bun or with a side of coleslaw, this dish is sure to be a hit. It’s not just flavorful; it’s also easy to whip up in a slow cooker or instant pot, making it both convenient and delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup honey mustard
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Pickles and extra onion for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mix the Sauces: In a bowl, combine honey mustard and barbecue sauce. Pour this mixture over the chicken and add the sliced onion on top.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once done, shred the chicken using two forks while it’s still in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the sauce.
- Serve: Spoon the pulled chicken onto hamburger buns. Top with pickles and extra onion if desired. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
BBQ pulled chicken is the kind of dish that turns a simple meal into something special—minimal effort, maximum flavor, and endless ways to serve it up. Whether you go low-and-slow with a smoker or whip up a quick stovetop batch, these recipes guarantee juicy, saucy perfection every time. So pick your favorite, get shredding, and watch how fast it disappears. Your next BBQ masterpiece starts here!