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There’s nothing quite like the satisfying aroma of tender chicken infused with smoky barbecue as it fills your kitchen. Recently, I found myself craving a dish that could elevate my weeknight dinner while still being simple enough for an after-work cooking routine. Enter the Pulled Chicken Burger—a delightful fusion of juicy, shredded chicken slathered in flavorful BBQ sauce, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to impress your family on a casual night in, this burger checks all the boxes. Its unique blend of sweetness and smokiness is perfectly complemented by a crunchy coleslaw topping, offering a delightful contrast of textures with every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your dinner rotation, providing both comfort and joy without the hassle of fast food. Let’s dive into the recipe and create something truly memorable!

Why is the Pulled Chicken Burger a Must-Try?

Juicy, Flavorful Goodness: The Pulled Chicken Burger combines tender, shredded chicken with a smoky barbecue sauce for an irresistible flavor.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Texture Triumph: Enjoy the delightful crunch of fresh coleslaw paired with a soft, toasted bun.
Customizable Delight: Easily adapt with different sauces, cheeses, and toppings to suit everyone’s taste.
Family Favorite: Satisfying enough for adults yet fun for kids, it’s a hit at every dinner table!
Don’t forget to check out my sweet potato fries recipe as a perfect side!

Pulled Chicken Burger Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create the ultimate Pulled Chicken Burger, bursting with flavor and texture!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – The star of the show, providing protein and a hearty filling.
Olive Oil – Helps to season the chicken and enhance its natural flavors.
Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; feel free to swap with fresh garlic for a stronger kick.
Onion Powder – Brings sweetness and umami to balance the dish.
Smoked Paprika – Infuses a smoky flavor; if you prefer milder, regular paprika is a great substitute.
Salt – A must for flavor enhancement; adjust to your taste.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; using freshly ground pepper will elevate the flavor.

For Assembly

Barbecue Sauce – The key to a moist and flavorful burger, any preferred brand or homemade works beautifully.
Burger Buns – Choose any type you love (whole wheat, gluten-free, etc.) to cradle the delicious filling.
Coleslaw – Fresh crunch to top off the burger; opt for store-bought or whip up your own!
Pickles (optional) – Adds a zesty tang; pick any pickled variety you adore.
Sliced Cheese (optional) – For creaminess; cheddar or American cheese melts perfectly over the warm chicken.

Now you’re all set to dive into this delicious Pulled Chicken Burger that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds!

How to Make Pulled Chicken Burger

Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot for cooking the chicken. Preheating is essential for even cooking!
Prepare Chicken: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this tasty mixture all over your chicken breasts, making sure they’re well-coated.
Bake: Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and registers an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, take two forks and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should pull apart easily—this is the fun part!
Combine with Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the shredded chicken with your barbecue sauce until every piece is coated. Adjust the amount based on how saucy you like your burgers!
Toast Buns: Take your burger buns and toast them in a skillet or oven until they’re golden brown. This gives them a nice crunch and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
Assemble Burgers: Start with the bottom half of the bun and pile on the shredded chicken. Top it with coleslaw, followed by pickles and cheese, if you’re using them.
Serve: Cap it off with the top bun, and serve the burgers immediately. Enjoy the delightful flavors you’ve created!

Optional: For an extra burst of flavor, add a drizzle of additional barbecue sauce on top before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Pulled Chicken Burger Variations

Feel free to make this Pulled Chicken Burger your own with these delightful tweaks and substitutions!

Spicy Kick: Swap the barbecue sauce for a spicy sriracha or chipotle sauce for an exciting heat level that will set your taste buds tingling.
Turkey Substitute: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a lean, lighter version that’s just as juicy and flavorful, perfect for health-conscious diners.
Vegetarian Style: Try shredded jackfruit as a plant-based alternative, marinated in the same barbecue sauce for a satisfying vegan option that won’t disappoint!
Cheeseburger Twist: Add crispy bacon or smoked Gouda to elevate the flavor further; it imparts a wonderful richness that complements the chicken perfectly.
Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley with the pulled chicken for an aromatic twist that brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
Tex-Mex Topping: Top your burger with guacamole and jalapeños for a zesty, southwestern flair that’ll impress friends and family at your next gathering.
Bun Variety: Experiment with different types of buns—try brioche, pretzel, or even lettuce wraps for a gluten-free delight!
Crunch Factor: Add crispy fried onions on top for an extra layer of texture that enhances every delicious bite.

Customize it your way and dive into a flavor adventure that makes this Pulled Chicken Burger uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Pulled Chicken Burger?

Creating a full meal around your Pulled Chicken Burger can elevate the entire dining experience. Let’s explore some fantastic pairings that complement the savory richness of your burger and take your dinner to the next level.

Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy, golden fries bring a hint of sweetness that balances the smoky flavors of the burger. Perfect for dipping!
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, zesty salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The charred sweetness of grilled corn adds a delightful smoky flavor, enhancing the BBQ vibe of your meal.
Coleslaw: Go beyond the toppings! A side of coleslaw brings the crunch and creaminess you love in the burger while offering a cool respite.
Beer or Iced Tea: A cold craft beer or refreshing iced tea adds a thirst-quenching element, making it a perfect pairing for a summer meal.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits can bring brightness to your plate, offering a sweet and refreshing end to your meal.

Whether you want a hearty addition or something lighter, these sides will beautifully complement your Pulled Chicken Burger!

Expert Tips for Pulled Chicken Burger

Check Temperature: Always ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid any foodborne illness. A meat thermometer is your best friend!
Rest Before Shredding: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This makes it easier to shred without burning your fingers!
Customize Your Sauce: Adjust the amount of barbecue sauce based on your taste preferences. More sauce adds sweetness, while less offers a spicier kick for your Pulled Chicken Burger.
Toast Buns Properly: Toast your buns just until golden; this not only adds a crunchy texture but also helps keep them from getting soggy.
Mix Up the Coleslaw: Consider adding extras like diced apples or raisins to your coleslaw for added sweetness and crunch, making your burgers even more fun!

Make Ahead Options

These Pulled Chicken Burgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking ways to simplify their dinner routine! You can marinate and season the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the olive oil, spices, and rub it onto the chicken, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. The shredded chicken can also be combined with barbecue sauce and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge, keeping it deliciously moist. When you’re ready to serve, just toast the buns, reheat the chicken mixture gently in the microwave or stovetop, assemble, and enjoy flavorful burgers that are just as tasty as fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Pulled Chicken Burger

Fridge: Store any leftover Pulled Chicken Burger in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the chicken’s moisture and the bun’s texture.

Freezer: If you want to keep the chicken longer, freeze the shredded chicken mixed with barbecue sauce in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Remember to toast fresh buns for the best experience!

Separate Storage: For optimal freshness, consider storing the coleslaw and pickles separately. This prevents sogginess and keeps your Pulled Chicken Burger tasting great when you’re ready to eat!

Pulled Chicken Burger Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the Pulled Chicken Burger, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best due to their tenderness and ability to hold up under seasoning. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs can also be used—they add a richer flavor!

How long can I store leftovers?
You can store your leftover Pulled Chicken Burger in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s cooled down before sealing. This way, the moisture in the chicken is preserved and the bun stays fresh!

Can I freeze the pulled chicken?
Of course! To freeze the shredded chicken, mix it with your barbecue sauce and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

What should I do if my chicken turns out dry?
No worries! If your chicken seems dry, it might have been overcooked. To avoid this in the future, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you do end up with dry chicken, try mixing in extra barbecue sauce to add moisture back in!

Can my pet enjoy the pulled chicken?
While plain, cooked chicken is safe for dogs and cats, be cautious! Avoid giving them any sauces, seasonings, or toppings used in the Pulled Chicken Burger, as many can be harmful to pets. Always check with your veterinarian before sharing human food!

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Great question! The chicken breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken to check. It should no longer be pink in the center, and the juices should run clear.