Summer is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill! There’s nothing quite like a juicy, flavorful BBQ sandwich on a warm day. And what better way to elevate your grilling game than with some spicy barbecue chicken sandwiches? In this article, we’ll share 18 mouth-watering recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches to innovative twists featuring habanero peppers and gochujang sauce, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet and smoky flavors or spicy and tangy ones, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to level up your BBQ game with these 18 spicy barbecue chicken sandwiches recipes.
Classic BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich
Get ready for a tangy and flavorful twist on traditional pulled chicken sandwiches! This classic recipe is perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the BBQ mixture.
4. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and serve on hamburger buns.
6. Top with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Honey Sriracha Barbecue Chicken Sandwich
This Honey Sriracha Barbecue Chicken Sandwich combines the classic flavors of barbecue and chicken with a spicy kick from sriracha sauce, all wrapped up in a sweet honey-glazed package.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, and 1 tablespoon of barbecue sauce.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on buns, then topping with remaining barbecue sauce, lettuce, tomato, and red onion (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Sliders
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these mouthwatering Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Sliders. Tender chicken breasts smothered in a spicy chipotle barbecue sauce, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 hamburger buns
– Bacon, cooked crispy (optional)
– Cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, olive oil, garlic, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush the chipotle BBQ sauce on both sides of the chicken during the last minute of grilling.
5. Assemble sliders with grilled chicken, bacon (if using), and cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tangy Carolina-Style BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic BBQ with this tangy and delicious chicken sandwich recipe, inspired by the Carolinas.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Tangy BBQ Sauce (see below)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce
– Tomato
– Red onion
– Pickle slices
Tangy BBQ Sauce:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Tangy BBQ Sauce ingredients.
3. Brush both sides of chicken breasts with the Tangy BBQ Sauce.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on buns and topping with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickle slices.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jalapeño Pineapple BBQ Chicken Sandwich
This sweet and spicy sandwich combines juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and crispy jalapeños, all wrapped in a soft bun and slathered with tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into wedges
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, brush pineapple wedges with BBQ sauce and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on bun, topping with pineapple, jalapeños, lettuce, and tomato (if using).
6. Cook time: 15-20 minutes.
Bourbon Peach Glazed Chicken Sandwich
Sweet and savory, this Bourbon Peach Glazed Chicken Sandwich is a twist on the classic club sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup peach preserves
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, bourbon whiskey, honey, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches with glazed chicken, lettuce, tomato, cheese (if using), and bun.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mango Habanero BBQ Chicken Sandwich
This sweet and spicy sandwich combines the flavors of juicy chicken, ripe mango, and fiery habanero peppers, all wrapped up in a crispy bun. It’s the perfect blend of tangy and savory for your next barbecue or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Spicy Mango Habanero BBQ Sauce (see below)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheese (optional)
Spicy Mango Habanero BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup mango puree
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons habanero peppers in syrup
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush Spicy Mango Habanero BBQ Sauce on chicken during last minute of grilling.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing chicken on buns and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Alabama White Sauce Chicken Sandwich
A Southern classic gets a delicious twist with this mouthwatering sandwich featuring crispy chicken, creamy white sauce, and fresh lettuce on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together heavy cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the white sauce mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing chicken on toasted buns, topping with lettuce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Gochujang BBQ Chicken Sandwich
This sweet and spicy Korean-inspired sandwich combines the flavors of gochujang BBQ sauce, crispy chicken, and crunchy slaw for a mouthwatering twist on traditional BBQ. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious sandwich in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup gochujang BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 8 hamburger buns
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken, slaw (cabbage, mayonnaise, and green onions), and buns.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Blue Cheese Slaw
Get ready to elevate your chicken sandwich game with this bold and tangy recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional)
– Blue Cheese Slaw:
+ 1 cup shredded blue cheese crumbles
+ 1 cup shredded cabbage
+ 1/4 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Frank’s RedHot sauce and butter. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using), and Blue Cheese Slaw.
6. Blue Cheese Slaw: In a bowl, combine blue cheese crumbles, cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and tangy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich
This sweet and savory sandwich combines the flavors of maple syrup, crispy bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce with juicy grilled chicken. Perfect for a weekend dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and 2 tablespoons of water.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
6. Assemble sandwiches by spreading BBQ sauce on the bottom bun, topping with grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Guacamole BBQ Chicken Club Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this mouth-watering Guacamole BBQ Chicken Club Sandwich recipe, featuring tender grilled chicken, crispy bacon, creamy guacamole, and melted cheddar cheese on toasted ciabatta bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 slices of bacon
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– 4 ciabatta rolls
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brush with olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet until crispy.
4. In a separate bowl, mash avocados with lime juice and salt.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading guacamole on toasted ciabatta, followed by grilled chicken, crispy bacon, mixed greens, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pulled BBQ Chicken with Coleslaw on Brioche
Pulled BBQ Chicken with Coleslaw on Brioche: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Combination!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns (or brioche)
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade, recipe not included)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish and brush with the BBQ mixture.
4. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Using two forks, pull apart chicken into shreds.
6. Split brioche buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble by placing pulled chicken on each bun, topping with coleslaw.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours (including baking time)
Sweet and Smoky Molasses BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Sweet and Smoky Molasses BBQ Chicken Sandwich
This sweet and smoky BBQ chicken sandwich is a twist on classic barbecue flavors, with the added depth of molasses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend picnic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken, coleslaw (if using), and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
BBQ Ranch Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Onions
Elevate your lunch game with this mouthwatering sandwich that combines juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy ranch dressing. Top it off with crispy onions for a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together BBQ sauce and ranch seasoning.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, fry onion slices in hot oil until crispy and golden brown.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing chicken on buns, topping with cheese (if using), and finishing with a spoonful of BBQ sauce and a handful of crispy onions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this sweet and savory combination of grilled chicken, tangy teriyaki sauce, and caramelized pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into wedges
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, and honey until well combined.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, grill pineapple wedges for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on buns and topping with pineapple, lettuce, tomato, and red onion (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy BBQ Chicken and Avocado Wrap
This flavorful wrap combines the sweetness of BBQ chicken with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a spicy package. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Spicy BBQ Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 large tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Brush chicken with Spicy BBQ Sauce during the last minute of cooking.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by spreading mixed greens on each tortilla, followed by sliced avocado, grilled chicken, feta cheese (if using), and jalapeño slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Philly Melt with Caramelized Onions
A twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, this BBQ chicken melt adds sweet and smoky flavors to the mix. Savor the combination of juicy chicken, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 4 slices of bread (Philly cheesesteak roll or hoagie work well)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize onions in olive oil over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on bread, topping with caramelized onions, cheese, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill this summer with these 18 spicy barbecue chicken sandwiches! From classic BBQ pulled chicken to more adventurous flavors like Korean gochujang and habanero, there’s something for everyone. Try a tangy Carolina-style BBQ sandwich or spice things up with jalapeño pineapple. Maybe you’re in the mood for sweet and smoky molasses or the richness of bourbon peach glaze? Whatever your taste buds desire, these mouth-watering recipes will elevate your summer grilling game.
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