Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers Made From Scratch Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that combines tender, juicy chicken with smoky, tangy barbecue flavor, look no further than this Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers Made From Scratch Recipe. This dish offers the perfect balance of textures with shredded chicken smothered in rich BBQ sauce, tucked inside soft buns, and complemented by crunchy toppings. It’s an all-around crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering burger experience you’ll want to make time and time again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers Made From Scratch Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of deliciousness. From the tender chicken breasts to the caramelized onions and bold barbecue sauce, everything works together to create that irresistible flavor and perfect texture.

• 2 medium Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star protein, providing juicy and tender meat perfect for shredding.
• 1 cup Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for that signature smoky, tangy taste.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Ideal for sautéing onions and garlic to bring out their natural sweetness.
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped: Adds a savory depth and subtle sweetness to brighten the dish.
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant punch that elevates every bite.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
• 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat that balances the dish perfectly.
• 4 pieces Hamburger Buns: Opt for whole grain, brioche, or gluten-free to suit your preference and add texture.
• Cheese, Pickles, Coleslaw: Optional toppings that bring extra layers of flavor and crunch.

How to Make Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers Made From Scratch Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a medium pot and covering them with water. Bring this to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. This simple poaching method keeps the chicken moist and ready for shredding.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

While the chicken cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and takes on a slight caramelized sweetness.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil with garlic’s rich aroma that melds beautifully with the onions and chicken.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and let it cool just enough to handle safely. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, allowing it to soak up all the upcoming flavors perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the barbecue sauce and stir everything thoroughly, making sure every shred is coated in that luscious, smoky sauce.

Step 6: Simmer for Flavor

Lower the heat and simmer the chicken mixture for 5 to 7 minutes. This gentle cooking allows the sauce to meld into the chicken deeply, creating a harmonious and flavorful filling for your burgers.

Step 7: Prepare Buns

While the chicken simmers, toast your hamburger buns lightly on a dry skillet or pop them into a toaster. This step adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender chicken.

Step 8: Assemble the Burgers

Spoon a generous amount of the savory shredded BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with your choice of cheese, pickles, or coleslaw for added texture and taste.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Place the top bun over the filling, press lightly, and serve immediately. These burgers are best enjoyed warm, with the BBQ sauce still juicy and inviting.

How to Serve Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers Made From Scratch Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like creamy coleslaw, sharp pickles, or melty cheese make your burgers pop with extra flavor and texture. A handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten up the plate and add a lovely fresh note.

Side Dishes

Pair these sensational BBQ chicken burgers with crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, or even baked beans to complement the smoky flavors. Each side offers a contrasting texture that rounds out this satisfying meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Serve the shredded BBQ chicken over toasted ciabatta or as a loaded sandwich with avocado slices and spicy mayo. For a fun twist, use lettuce wraps as buns for a lighter, low-carb option that still delivers all the savory goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover shredded BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes a fantastic quick meal for busy days when you want something delicious without starting from scratch.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked shredded chicken mixture for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing excess air before sealing to preserve flavor and freshness.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge and gently warm it in a skillet over low heat until hot. Adding a splash of water or extra barbecue sauce can help maintain moisture and prevent drying.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat which adds extra richness and flavor to your shredded BBQ chicken, making it even more succulent.

Is it necessary to cook the chicken in water?

Poaching in water is an easy way to keep the chicken moist and tender, but you can also use chicken broth for added flavor or cook it in an Instant Pot for convenience.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

Use your favorite barbecue sauce whether it’s smoky, spicy, sweet, or tangy. Homemade sauce is great too, as it allows you to customize the flavor exactly to your liking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just opt for gluten-free buns and check that your barbecue sauce does not contain gluten ingredients, and you’re good to go.

How do I keep the shredded chicken from drying out?

The key is to not overcook the chicken and to simmer it gently with plenty of barbecue sauce, which keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Shredded BBQ Chicken Burgers Made From Scratch Recipe is a true joy to make and eat, combining comfort food vibes with fresh, homemade goodness. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, these burgers are sure to become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be craving these delicious, saucy burgers again and again.

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