The smoky-sweet aroma of these Shredded Saucy BBQ Chicken Sammies will have mouths watering before the buns even hit the plate. Infused with rich Mexican beer, dark brown sugar, and the bold tang of hot sauce and tomato paste, this dish is a fusion of comfort and zest that hits all the right notes.
This recipe is the perfect way to upgrade your weeknight meal or impress guests at a summer gathering. The pickle relish offers a bright, crunchy contrast to the soft, saucy chicken, and the quick cook time keeps things stress-free. Whether you’re a BBQ lover or just in the mood for something hearty and flavorful, this one’s a keeper.
Full Recipe:
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1 cup chicken stock
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1 bottle Mexican beer
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, chopped
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Tabasco)
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2 tablespoons grill seasoning blend (like Montreal Steak Seasoning)
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3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
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4 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 large sour deli pickle, chopped
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6 to 8 slices sweet bread and butter pickles, chopped
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6 soft sandwich buns (burger rolls work great)
Directions:
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In a medium skillet, bring chicken stock and beer to a simmer. Add chicken breasts and poach gently for 10 minutes, turning once halfway through.
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While the chicken poaches, heat olive oil in a second skillet over medium-low heat. Sauté garlic and onion until soft and fragrant, about 5-6 minutes.
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In a medium bowl, mix Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, grill seasoning, brown sugar, and tomato paste. Add about 2 ladles of the poaching liquid and stir to combine.
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Remove the chicken from the poaching liquid, slice it, then shred using two forks. Toss shredded chicken into the sauce mixture.
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Add the shredded chicken mixture to the garlic-onion skillet and simmer for 5–10 minutes, adding more poaching liquid if needed for desired sauciness.
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Mix both types of pickles in a small bowl.
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Split the buns, load them up with saucy BBQ chicken, top with pickle relish, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 375 kcal (approx.) | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction to the Shredded Saucy BBQ Chicken Sammies
When it comes to comfort food that is both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat, BBQ chicken sandwiches have a special place at the top of the list. The Shredded Saucy BBQ Chicken Sammies recipe by Rachael Ray is a fantastic representation of this comfort classic, elevated with a blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that appeal to a wide variety of palates. This dish isn’t just another pulled chicken sandwich—it’s a flavor-packed experience that uses poached chicken simmered in beer and chicken stock, enriched with bold seasonings and finished with a punchy pickle relish. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or looking for a crowd-pleaser at a weekend barbecue, this recipe checks all the boxes.
The Flavor Profile: A Symphony of Sweet, Smoky, and Tangy
What makes these sammies stand out from other pulled chicken sandwiches is the depth of flavor created by the cooking process. Chicken is gently poached in a combination of Mexican beer and chicken stock, which imparts a rich and slightly bitter backbone that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of dark brown sugar and the acidity of tomato paste. Added to this are hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce, which bring heat and umami. Grill seasoning offers a savory base with hints of garlic and pepper, rounding out a sauce that clings to every strand of the shredded chicken.
The finishing touch is a mix of sour deli pickles and sweet bread-and-butter pickles, chopped and layered on top of the sandwich for a tangy crunch. These pickles add a brightness that cuts through the richness of the BBQ sauce, giving each bite a complex and well-balanced flavor.
Why Poaching Makes a Difference
Instead of grilling or roasting, this recipe uses a poaching method to cook the chicken. Poaching in beer and chicken stock keeps the chicken moist and allows it to absorb the savory flavors of the liquid. The gentle cooking method also ensures the chicken shreds easily and remains tender, making it perfect for a sandwich filling. This technique is both time-efficient and foolproof, especially for home cooks who want reliable results without fuss.
Moreover, the poaching liquid doesn’t go to waste. A few ladles of it are incorporated into the sauce, further deepening the flavor and ensuring the shredded chicken remains juicy and well-coated.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights or Weekend Cookouts
With a total cook time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is an ideal choice for busy individuals who don’t want to compromise on flavor. It’s a one-pan-friendly meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes satisfaction. The use of pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients makes it accessible to almost anyone, and yet the end result feels gourmet.
At the same time, the bold BBQ flavor and hearty portions make it a standout dish for casual get-togethers. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or planning a backyard party, these sammies will keep your guests happy. Just prepare a large batch of shredded chicken, set out the buns and toppings buffet-style, and let everyone build their own.
Customizations and Variations
One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily adapt it based on dietary preferences or available ingredients:
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Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or increase the hot sauce for an extra kick.
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Go sweet and smoky: Use smoked paprika or a bit of liquid smoke to intensify the BBQ flavor.
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Use rotisserie chicken: In a pinch, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be shredded and mixed with the sauce to save even more time.
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Gluten-free option: Substitute the buns with gluten-free rolls and ensure your Worcestershire sauce and beer are gluten-free as well.
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Dairy-free: The recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it a good option for those with sensitivities.
You can also change up the pickles to your taste—swap sweet pickles for dill, or even make a quick slaw to add crunch and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
While the Shredded Saucy BBQ Chicken Sammies are satisfying on their own, pairing them with the right side dishes can elevate the meal:
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Coleslaw: A creamy slaw complements the richness of the BBQ sauce and adds a refreshing crunch.
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Potato salad: Classic and hearty, it balances the tanginess of the sandwich.
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Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled, corn adds sweetness that complements the smoky chicken.
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Baked beans: Their rich, savory sweetness plays well with the bold BBQ flavors.
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Sweet potato fries: A slightly healthier alternative to regular fries, and the sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spiced chicken.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try for Home Cooks
Rachael Ray’s approach to cooking is all about making gourmet-style meals approachable for the everyday cook, and this recipe is a perfect example. It brings together bold flavors and comforting textures without requiring complex steps or fancy equipment. With ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.
The sandwich format also adds an element of fun and familiarity, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s customizable, scalable, and easy to transport, which means it’s also a great choice for picnics, potlucks, and meal prepping.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes
This meal is rich in protein thanks to the lean chicken breast. Depending on the type of bun and amount of sauce used, calorie content can vary, but the average serving clocks in at around 375 kcal. It’s a relatively balanced option that provides sustained energy while still feeling indulgent.
If you’re watching sodium, consider reducing the grill seasoning and using low-sodium chicken stock. To make it lower in sugar, cut back on the brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Storing and Reheating
The shredded BBQ chicken stores very well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or leftover poaching liquid to keep it moist. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat.
This makes the recipe an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches just before serving for optimal texture and freshness.
Conclusion
The Shredded Saucy BBQ Chicken Sammies are more than just a quick weeknight dinner—they’re a celebration of bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and smart cooking techniques. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe offers both simplicity and sophistication in one delicious bite. The beer-poached chicken, rich BBQ sauce, and pickle-topped buns come together in perfect harmony, delivering a meal that’s both comforting and crave-worthy.
With endless ways to customize and pair this dish, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly earns a permanent spot in your rotation—not just because it’s easy, but because it’s so incredibly satisfying.
If you’re looking to impress with minimal effort or simply crave a sandwich that packs a punch, this is the recipe to reach for. Prepare to fall in love with your new favorite BBQ chicken sandwich.