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Why This BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich Recipe Works

What You’ll Need for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Serving and Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Mistakes to Avoid while making BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Name: BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie works great); 1¼ cups homemade BBQ sauce; 1 lime, juiced; 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt; 3 cups coleslaw mix; ¼ cup chopped cilantro; ½ jalapeño, minced (optional); ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 4 brioche buns, toasted; Sliced dill pickles (optional)

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich brings together tender shredded chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and crispy coleslaw for the ultimate comfort food experience. This crowd-pleasing sandwich combines smoky flavors with refreshing crunch in every bite.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick 15-minute recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner fast
Budget-friendly meal using leftover chicken transformed into something special
Perfect balance of sweet BBQ sauce and tangy lime-dressed coleslaw
Customizable heat level with optional jalapeño for spice lovers
Great for meal prep – components can be made ahead and assembled when ready

Why This BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich Recipe Works

The magic happens when warm BBQ chicken meets cool, crunchy coleslaw. The Greek yogurt-based slaw adds creaminess without heaviness. Fresh lime juice brightens everything up beautifully.

Toasted brioche buns provide the perfect sturdy yet soft base. They soak up the BBQ sauce while maintaining structure. The optional pickles add extra tang that cuts through the richness.

This recipe transforms simple ingredients into restaurant-quality sandwiches. The combination of textures and temperatures creates an irresistible eating experience every time.

What You’ll Need for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Ingredients

2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
1¼ cups homemade BBQ sauce
1 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
3 cups coleslaw mix
¼ cup chopped cilantro
½ jalapeño, minced (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 brioche buns, toasted
Sliced dill pickles (optional)

Tools

Large saucepan for heating chicken
Mixing bowl for coleslaw
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife for mincing
Toaster or grill pan for buns

How to Make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Creating these delicious sandwiches is surprisingly simple. Follow these easy steps for perfect results:

Step 1:	Combine shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in your large saucepan. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently for 5 minutes until warmed through.
Step 2:	While chicken heats, prepare the coleslaw. Mix lime juice and Greek yogurt in a bowl until smooth.
Step 3:	Add coleslaw mix, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), salt, and pepper to the yogurt mixture. Toss well to coat evenly.
Step 4:	Toast brioche buns until golden. This prevents them from getting soggy.
Step 5:	Place ½ cup BBQ chicken on each bottom bun. Top generously with coleslaw and pickles if desired.
Step 6:	Crown with top bun and serve immediately while chicken is still warm.

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Chef's Helpful Tips

Use rotisserie chicken for the quickest prep – just shred and you’re ready to go
Make coleslaw 30 minutes ahead and refrigerate for better flavor development
Butter and toast bun interiors for extra richness and crunch
Add a thin layer of mayo to buns to create a moisture barrier
Double the coleslaw recipe – it’s great as a side dish too

Serving and Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Serving Tips

Serve these sandwiches immediately after assembly for best texture contrast. Pair with crispy sweet potato fries or onion rings. A cold lemonade complements the BBQ flavors perfectly.

For parties, set up a sandwich bar. Keep chicken warm in a slow cooker. Place coleslaw in a chilled bowl. Let guests build their own creations.

Cut sandwiches diagonally for easier eating. Secure with toothpicks if needed. Serve with extra napkins – these can get deliciously messy!

Mistakes to Avoid while making BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Don’t overheat the chicken – it’ll become dry and tough. Keep heat at medium-low. Stir gently to prevent shredding further.

Avoid overdressing the coleslaw. Start with less dressing and add more if needed. Soggy slaw ruins the texture contrast.

Never skip toasting the buns. Soft buns fall apart under the weight of toppings. Toasting creates necessary structure.

Don’t assemble sandwiches too early. The warm chicken will wilt the coleslaw. Build right before serving for optimal results.

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You Must Know

Chicken can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and reheated when ready to serve
Coleslaw tastes better after resting 15-30 minutes but don’t exceed 2 hours
Substitute turkey or pulled jackfruit for different protein options
Store leftover components separately to maintain textures and freshness

Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich

Try different BBQ sauce varieties for new flavor profiles. Mustard-based Carolina sauce offers tangy zip. Kansas City-style brings molasses sweetness.

Experiment with coleslaw variations. Add shredded apple for sweetness. Try red cabbage for color. Include carrots for extra crunch.

Consider these tasty additions: crispy fried onions, sliced avocado, or crumbled turkey bacon. Each brings unique texture and flavor.

For a lighter version, use whole wheat buns and Greek yogurt-based BBQ sauce. Check out this BBQ Chicken Slaw Recipe from Food Network for inspiration.

Make it a complete meal by serving with Ultimate Chicken Casserole on the side. For dessert, try 5-Ingredient Easy Keto Cloud Cake.

FAQs:

Can I make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich ahead of time?

You can prepare components ahead but assemble just before serving. Store BBQ chicken and coleslaw separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What's the best chicken to use for BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich?

Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or poach chicken breasts specifically for this recipe.

How do I prevent my BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich from getting soggy?

Toast buns well, add a thin mayo layer as barrier, and don’t overdress the coleslaw. Assemble sandwiches right before eating.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich without Greek yogurt?

Yes, substitute with sour cream, mayonnaise, or even mashed avocado for the creamy element in your coleslaw dressing.

What sides go well with BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich?

Sweet potato fries, onion rings, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad all pair wonderfully with these flavorful sandwiches.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Coleslaw Sandwich delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of smoky BBQ chicken and crisp, tangy coleslaw creates an unforgettable meal.

This versatile recipe adapts to your preferences and schedule. Make it mild or spicy, prepare components ahead, or whip it up last minute.

Try this recipe tonight and discover why it’s become a family favorite. For more quick dinner ideas, explore 10-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Don’t forget to check out Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Sandwiches for another delicious variation.

More Easy Lunch Recipes:

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