Remember the last time you sunk your teeth into a sandwich that just exploded with flavor? That’s what we’re talking about here—a BBQ chicken sandwich that feels like summer on a plate, even when it’s snowing outside. I stumbled upon this gem during a backyard cookout last month, and let me tell you, it was like discovering a new favorite song that you just can’t stop playing.
Steps
- Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Slice large chicken thighs in half for sandwich-sized portions, then season the chicken with the spice mix on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, swirl the oil to coat the skillet, add the seasoned chicken, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and generously brush both sides of the chicken with BBQ sauce.
- In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, and ranch dressing. Stir until the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing a piece of BBQ chicken on each bun and adding a generous scoop of the ranch slaw on top. Serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 7 ounces coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 4 buns
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1660.92 kcal | Carbohydrates: 129.12 g | Protein: 112.72 g | Fat: 74.92 g | Sodium: 6211.92 mg | Fiber: 9.2 g
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of meat for the BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
- Absolutely! While the recipe is designed for chicken thighs, you can substitute them with chicken breasts or even try a vegetarian option like BBQ tofu sliders.
- What if I don’t like ranch dressing in the coleslaw?
- No problem! If ranch isn’t your thing, try using a classic creamy coleslaw recipe instead; it pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.
- Which BBQ sauce should I use for these sandwiches?
- You can use any BBQ sauce you prefer. Popular choices include hickory smoke-flavored or Sweet Baby Ray’s, or you can make your own homemade BBQ sauce for a personal touch.
- What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
- Spicy sweet potato fries, thick-cut steak fries with Comeback Sauce, creamy potato salad, or a fresh dish like Cowboy Caviar are all great options to complement the sandwiches.
- Can I prepare the chicken using a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can! The recipe can also be adapted using slow-cooker BBQ chicken, providing a flavorful and tender alternative.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider using a mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to season the chicken thighs before cooking. This spice blend enhances the BBQ taste and provides a delightful smoky aroma.
- If you’re looking for a twist on the classic coleslaw, try making a ranch-style slaw using bagged coleslaw mix and your favorite thick ranch dressing. This combination perfectly complements the BBQ flavors and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich.
- Feel free to customize your BBQ Chicken Sandwich with additional toppings like pickles, cheddar cheese, or crispy French fried onions for extra crunch and flavor.
- When selecting a BBQ sauce, choose one that matches your personal taste preferences. Whether you prefer a sweet, smoky, or tangy flavor, using a BBQ sauce you love will ensure the sandwiches are to your liking.
Equipment
- Nonstick Fry Pan or Skillet
- Color-Coded Cutting Boards (for handling raw chicken separately from other ingredients)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
