Apple Butter BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

There’s something magical about the sweet and tangy blend of apple butter and barbecue sauce that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a flavor-packed delight. These Apple Butter BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches offer the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky notes, all nestled between whole grain sandwich rolls for an irresistible meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or an impressive game day treat, this recipe delivers juicy pulled chicken with a homemade coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch. Let’s dive into what makes this sandwich truly special and how you can recreate it effortlessly in your own kitchen.

Why This Apple Butter BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches Stands Out

What sets these Apple Butter BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches apart from your average pulled chicken is the unique twist of apple butter. Unlike traditional BBQ sauces that lean heavily on tomato or molasses bases, the apple butter infuses a natural sweetness and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy barbecue sauce. The addition of apple cider vinegar and a well-balanced blend of spices ensures the chicken remains moist, tender, and bursting with flavor after slow cooking. Plus, the homemade coleslaw adds a creamy, crisp contrast that complements the rich pulled chicken perfectly. This sandwich is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

What’s in the Bowl

• 2 pounds chicken breasts – lean and tender, perfect for shredding
• 1 cup apple butter – the star ingredient adding natural sweetness
• 1 cup barbecue sauce – choose your favorite brand or homemade
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – for brightness and a little zing
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for savory depth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances overall flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – a mild heat element
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the tastes
• 4 whole grain sandwich rolls – hearty and wholesome
• 1 cup coleslaw mix – shredded cabbage and carrots for crunch
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise – creamy base for the coleslaw
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for coleslaw) – adds acidity
• 1 teaspoon sugar (for coleslaw) – balances the vinegar’s tartness

Cook’s Kit

• Slow cooker or Instant Pot – for effortless, tender chicken
• Mixing bowls – one for the sauce, one for the coleslaw
• Forks or meat shredder – to pull the chicken apart
• Measuring cups and spoons – precise seasoning and sauce ratios
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping the sandwich rolls and coleslaw mix
• Spatula or spoon – to mix sauces and slaw thoroughly

From Start to Finish: Apple Butter BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the apple butter, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth and well blended. This sauce is the flavor powerhouse for your pulled chicken.

Step 2: Add Chicken to the Slow Cooker

Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, mixing it well with the remaining sauce to soak up all the flavors.

Step 4: Make the Coleslaw

In a separate bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Toss until the slaw is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more sugar or vinegar if needed.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Split the whole grain rolls and toast lightly if desired. Pile the pulled chicken generously onto the bottom half of each roll, then top with a heap of the fresh coleslaw. Place the top half of the roll on and press gently.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with your favorite sides. These sandwiches pair wonderfully with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even alongside the Crunchy Pickle Brined Chicken Sandwich for a chicken feast.

Dietary Customizations

• Lower Sugar: Use a sugar-free or low-sugar barbecue sauce and reduce the sugar in the coleslaw or substitute with honey.
• Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise in the coleslaw for a dairy-free or vegan alternative like avocado mayo.
• Gluten-Free: Serve the pulled chicken on gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.
• Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce or top the sandwich with sliced jalapeños for heat.

Missteps & Fixes

• Chicken turns out dry: Make sure to cook the chicken slowly and avoid lifting the lid frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick during cooking.
• Sauce too sweet: Balance it with a bit more apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• Coleslaw too runny: Drain excess liquid from the coleslaw mix before tossing with dressing or reduce mayonnaise slightly.
• Sandwich rolls become soggy: Toast the rolls lightly before assembling to create a barrier against moisture.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the coleslaw separate to maintain its crispness.

For longer storage, freeze the pulled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.

When reheating, add a splash of water or additional barbecue sauce to keep the chicken moist.

Common Qs About Apple Butter BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to mix the sauce and then cook the chicken on high pressure for about 15 minutes with a natural release. This method speeds up the process while still delivering tender, juicy pulled chicken.

Is apple butter necessary for the flavor?

Apple butter adds a unique sweetness and depth that enhances the barbecue sauce. While you can substitute with applesauce, it won’t provide quite the same rich, concentrated flavor that apple butter offers.

What’s the best way to shred chicken quickly?

Using two forks to pull the chicken apart works well, but if you want to speed things up, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment can shred the chicken in under a minute.

Can I prepare the coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coleslaw a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just give it a good toss before serving. Avoid making it too far ahead as the cabbage may release water and dilute the dressing.

Cook This Next

• Crunchy Pickle Brined Chicken Sandwich – For another delicious chicken sandwich with a tangy twist.
• Barbecue Chicken Poppers – Perfect bite-sized BBQ chicken treats for snacking or parties.

Ready to Cook?

There you have it—your ultimate guide to making the most flavorful Apple Butter BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches. This recipe combines the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors with a fresh crunch of homemade coleslaw, all wrapped in a wholesome whole grain roll. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be serving up a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. So fire up that slow cooker or Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a sandwich that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Your taste buds will thank you!

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