Why Make This Recipe
Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers are a fantastic choice for a tasty meal that everyone will love. They are easy to make from scratch and packed with flavor. Plus, this recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. These burgers are perfect for a family dinner, a backyard BBQ, or even a quick meal for busy weeknights. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
How to Make Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers
Ingredients:
- 2 medium Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Approximately 1 pound total)
- 1 cup Barbecue Sauce (Your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For sautéing onions and garlic)
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped (Adds savory flavor)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Enhances flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (To season the chicken)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (For added flavor)
- 4 pieces Hamburger Buns (Whole grain, brioche, or gluten-free options)
- Cheese, Pickles, Coleslaw (For added flavor and texture)
Directions:
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Start by preparing the chicken. In a medium pot, add two boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cover them with water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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While the chicken is cooking, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add one finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized.
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Add three minced garlic cloves to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute. The garlic should become fragrant but not burnt.
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Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
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Return the shredded chicken to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in one cup of your favorite barbecue sauce, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
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Cook the mixture over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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While the chicken mixture is simmering, prepare your hamburger buns. You can toast them lightly on a dry skillet or in a toaster if desired.
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To serve, place a generous scoop of the savory shredded BBQ chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Add any optional toppings like cheese, pickles, or coleslaw for added flavor and texture.
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Top with the other half of the bun, press down gently, and serve immediately while hot.
How to Serve Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers
These burgers are best served warm. You can present them with a side of coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as cheese, pickles, or even avocado to make them extra special.
How to Store Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers
If you have leftovers, you can store the shredded BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The burgers can also be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in the barbecue sauce for a few hours or overnight.
- If you like spicy food, consider adding hot sauce or crushed red pepper to the chicken mixture for a kick.
Variation
You can easily swap out the chicken for shredded pork or beef if you prefer. You can also try different sauces, like a spicy mustard or a homemade teriyaki glaze, to create new flavors.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before boiling for even cooking. -
What type of barbecue sauce should I use?
You can use any barbecue sauce you like. Homemade sauce is great, but store-bought works perfectly too. -
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shredded chicken in advance and reheat it before serving. Just keep the buns separate until you’re ready to eat.
Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make shredded BBQ chicken burgers, perfect for family dinners or BBQs.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Approximately 1 pound total)
- 1 cup Barbecue Sauce (Your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For sautéing onions and garlic)
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped (Adds savory flavor)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Enhances flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (To season the chicken)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (For added flavor)
- 4 pieces Hamburger Buns (Whole grain, brioche, or gluten-free options)
- Cheese, Pickles, Coleslaw (For added flavor and texture)
Instructions
- In a medium pot, add the chicken breasts and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the barbecue sauce, stirring to combine. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
- While the mixture simmers, prepare the hamburger buns by toasting if desired.
- Serve the chicken mixture on the bottom half of the buns, adding cheese, pickles, or coleslaw as desired, then top with the other bun half.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can freeze for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American