BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers

BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers are a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich BBQ sauce, and crunchy coleslaw, all nestled in soft brioche buns. Perfect for a family dinner or as sliders for game day, these burgers are sure to impress. The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With the slow cooker method, you can set it and forget it while your meal cooks.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The mix of spices and BBQ sauce ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as hearty burgers or mini sliders depending on the occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these pulled chicken burgers will be a hit at parties.
• Healthy Twist: Using Greek yogurt in the coleslaw adds creaminess without extra calories.

Tools and Preparation

To make BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and helps achieve perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Forks (for shredding)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking that results in tender, juicy chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and making sauces or dressings.
• Tongs: Help safely handle hot ingredients without mess.
• Forks: Perfect for shredding chicken quickly and easily.

Ingredients

For the Pulled Chicken

• 1.5-2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided)
• 1 tbsp dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 3 tbsp water

For the Coleslaw

• 2 cups Napa cabbage (shredded)
• 2 cups red cabbage (shredded)
• 1 cup carrots (shredded)
• ⅔ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp water
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey

For Serving

• 4–6 burger buns or bread (such as brioche, sesame, ciabatta, etc.)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Chicken Thighs

1. Pour ¾ cup of BBQ sauce, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and water into the slow cooker pot.
2. Season the chicken thighs on both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and ground cumin.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Use tongs to flip each piece in the sauce mixture until well coated.
4. Cover with the lid and cook on high for 2–3 hours or low for 4–5 hours until fully cooked.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

1. Once cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, transfer the chicken to a bowl or cutting board.
2. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
3. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and add remaining ¼ cup of BBQ sauce. Stir until evenly coated. Keep on warm setting until ready to serve.

Step 3: Make Greek Yogurt Coleslaw

1. While the chicken cooks, prepare coleslaw by mixing Greek yogurt, water, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, black pepper, kosher salt, garlic powder, dijon mustard, and honey in a mixing bowl until well combined.
2. In another large bowl, combine Napa cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.
3. Pour dressing over vegetables; use tongs to mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers

1. Split each burger bun in half.
2. Top each bottom half with a generous scoop of pulled chicken followed by coleslaw.
3. Drizzle additional BBQ sauce over the chicken if desired.
4. Place top halves of buns on each burger to complete them.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers

BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

As Sliders

• Serve mini sliders for a fun appetizer or party snack. Use small buns and pile on the pulled chicken and coleslaw for bite-sized goodness.

With Extra Toppings

• Enhance your burgers with additional toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or sliced avocado. These add layers of flavor and texture.

On a Salad

• For a lighter meal, serve the pulled chicken on a bed of greens. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for a zesty salad option.

In a Wrap

• Place the pulled chicken and coleslaw in a tortilla for a portable meal. This is great for picnics or lunches on the go.

With Different Sauces

• Experiment with different sauces like ranch or spicy mayo. These can elevate the flavor profile of your BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a platter with various sides, including chips, veggies, and dips. This makes for an excellent sharing option during gatherings.

How to Perfect BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers

To make your BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips that ensure juicy chicken and flavorful toppings.

• Choose the right cut: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures tenderness and rich flavor as they cook slowly.
• Marinate ahead: Letting the chicken marinate in BBQ sauce overnight boosts the taste significantly.
• Monitor cooking time: Cooking on low allows flavors to meld beautifully; avoid overcooking to keep moisture intact.
• Shred properly: Use two forks to shred the chicken finely so it absorbs more sauce and stays juicy.
• Customize coleslaw: Feel free to add ingredients like apples or nuts to your coleslaw for added crunch and sweetness.
• Toast your buns: Lightly toasting brioche buns enhances their flavor and prevents sogginess from the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers

Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement these savory sandwiches beautifully.

1. Coleslaw: A classic choice that pairs well with BBQ flavors; opt for creamy or vinegar-based dressings.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds richness; consider adding herbs for freshness.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter offers sweetness that balances out the savory chicken.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans create a hearty side that’s perfect alongside pulled chicken.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast to the soft burgers.
6. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad adds comfort food vibes; it’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
7. Pickles: Tangy pickles offer crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the burger.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness to your plate; choose seasonal fruits for best flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to properly season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides with salt, pepper, and spices before cooking for maximum taste.
• Using low-quality BBQ sauce – Not all BBQ sauces are created equal. Choose a high-quality sauce that you enjoy, as it significantly impacts the flavor of your pulled chicken burgers.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F, then shred the meat immediately to retain moisture.
• Neglecting the coleslaw – A lackluster coleslaw can diminish your burger’s overall taste. Make sure to mix the dressing well and let it sit for a bit before serving for enhanced flavor.
• Choosing the wrong buns – Not all buns hold up well against juicy fillings. Opt for sturdy brioche or ciabatta buns that can handle the pulled chicken without falling apart.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers

• For long-term storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• These can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer without losing quality.

Reheating BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place burgers on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place burgers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, reheat burgers for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers?

You can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may turn out drier compared to thighs due to lower fat content. Adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

How do I customize my BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers?

There are many ways to customize these burgers! You can add toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or different cheeses. Experiment with various BBQ sauces or even spicy seasonings!

What side dishes pair well with BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers?

Great sides include coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad. These complement the flavors of your pulled chicken burgers nicely.

How do I make these into sliders?

To make sliders, simply use smaller buns and divide your pulled chicken into smaller portions. This makes them perfect for parties or game day!

Final Thoughts

BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to casual gatherings. Customize them with your favorite toppings or side dishes for an even more enjoyable meal. Give this recipe a try and delight your family and friends!