Barbecued Chicken Sandwiches
Juicy barbecued chicken sandwiches with tender chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt margarine or butter.
- Add chopped green pepper (if using), chopped celery, and chopped onion; cook until tender.
- Add drained chunk white chicken and barbecue sauce to the saucepan.
- Heat through, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the mixture over toasted hamburger buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture. If you don't have canned chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken makes a great substitute. For a lighter version, use whole grain buns and add more vegetables like grated carrots or spinach to the filling. This recipe can also be easily adapted for a barbecue flavor by using your favorite homemade barbecue sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sandwiches with a side of coleslaw or potato chips for a classic picnic vibe. A simple green salad also pairs nicely. For a fun twist, add pickles or jalapeños to the sandwiches for extra crunch and heat. These barbecued chicken sandwiches are perfect for casual gatherings or game day, making them a hit at any outdoor barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally. Toast the buns fresh for serving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Chicken Sandwiches contains roughly 459 calories, with 12g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 829mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked and shredded fresh chicken. Just cook the chicken until it's fully done, then shred it before adding it to the saucepan with the other ingredients. This will give you a fresher taste and texture in your sandwiches.
What type of barbecue sauce works best for this recipe?
You can use any barbecue sauce you prefer, whether it's sweet, tangy, or spicy. For a richer flavor, opt for a smoky barbecue sauce. If you enjoy experimenting, try mixing two different sauces to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or potlucks, allowing you to enjoy the sandwiches with minimal effort on the day of serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).