Bbq Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Prep and pound

If chicken breasts are thick, butterfly or place between plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness so they cook evenly. Pat dry with paper towels.

Season both sides of the chicken evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Rub with the olive oil to help seasoning adhere.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add a teaspoon of oil if your skillet is dry. Add the chicken and cook undisturbed 4–5 minutes until a golden crust forms.

Flip the chicken and reduce heat to medium. Cook 4–5 more minutes until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). If using thicker pieces, cover the skillet and cook an additional 1–3 minutes as needed.

Remove chicken to a plate and let rest 5 minutes before slicing or leaving whole for the sandwich.

While chicken cooks, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, hot sauce (if using), and water in a small saucepan.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy. Taste and adjust: add a pinch more sugar if too tart or a splash more vinegar if too sweet.

Remove from heat. Reserve about 1/4 cup of sauce for brushing the cooked chicken and extra for serving on the sandwich.

Split the buns and lightly butter the cut sides. Toast cut-side down in a dry skillet over medium heat or under a broiler until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

If chicken is whole, brush one side of each piece with the reserved BBQ sauce. If sliced, toss slices lightly with the sauce so they are well coated.

Place a sauced chicken breast (or pile sliced chicken) on the bottom bun. Top each with a slice of cheese so residual heat melts it slightly. Add red onion slices and dill pickle chips if using.

Spread mayonnaise on the top bun if desired, then close the sandwich. Serve immediately with remaining BBQ sauce on the side.