Are you ready to elevate your sandwich game to a whole new level? Imagine biting into a warm, toasty bun filled with tender, smoky shredded chicken, perfectly coated in tangy barbecue sauce. This Smoked Shredded Chicken Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite deli. Let’s dive into the smoky goodness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 4 sandwich buns
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather 2 lbs of chicken breasts, 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 4 sandwich buns, 1 tsp of smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you don’t have a smoker, you can use a grill set up for indirect cooking.
- While the smoker is heating up, season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for the best flavor.
- Once the smoker is ready, place the seasoned chicken breasts directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and smoke the chicken for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place the shredded chicken in a mixing bowl.
- Add 1 cup of barbecue sauce to the shredded chicken and mix well until the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
- While the chicken is being mixed, you can toast the sandwich buns on the smoker or a grill for added flavor. Toast them for about 1-2 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- To assemble the sandwiches, place a generous portion of the smoked shredded chicken onto the bottom half of each toasted sandwich bun.
- Top the chicken with any additional toppings you prefer, such as pickles, coleslaw, or sliced onions.
- Finally, place the top half of the bun on the sandwich and serve immediately while warm.
- Enjoy your delicious smoked shredded chicken sandwiches!
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy shredding. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can also use chicken thighs.
- Marinate for Flavor: For an extra kick, consider marinating the chicken in barbecue sauce for a couple of hours before smoking. This will infuse more flavor into the meat.
- Control the Smoke: Make sure to use wood chips that complement the chicken, such as hickory or applewood, to enhance the smoky flavor without overpowering it.
- Check the Temperature: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Resting is Key: Don’t skip the resting step after smoking! This allows the chicken to retain its juices, making it even more delicious when shredded.
- Customize Your Sandwich: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Add some crunchy coleslaw, tangy pickles, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Make It Ahead: The smoked shredded chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your sandwiches with classic sides like potato chips, fries, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 415kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 51g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 120mg
