Summer has finally arrived, and what better way to beat the heat than firing up the grill and serving up some deliciously spicy barbecue chicken sandwiches? Whether you’re a fan of classic BBQ flavors or prefer a little extra kick in your meal, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to become new favorites for summer grilling.
From the tangy zip of Carolina-style BBQ to the sweet and spicy fusion of mango BBQ, each recipe on this list offers a unique twist on the classic barbecue chicken sandwich. And with ingredients like jalapeños, chipotle peppers, and sriracha sauce adding an extra layer of heat, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy even the most adventurous eaters.
So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to spice up your summer with these 18 spicy barbecue chicken sandwich recipes!
Classic BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwich
Get ready to savor the smoky, tangy flavors of this timeless favorite! With tender pulled chicken, creamy coleslaw, and soft buns, this sandwich is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large baking dish and brush with the BBQ mixture.
4. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and return to the baking dish.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing pulled chicken onto buns, topping with coleslaw, and adding pickle slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Honey Sriracha Barbecue Chicken Sandwich
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with this sweet and spicy Honey Sriracha Barbecue Chicken Sandwich recipe. A perfect combination of tangy, sticky chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy coleslaw all come together in one mouthwatering sandwich.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp Sriracha sauce
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked crispy
• Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
• Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken, crispy bacon, coleslaw, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Sliders
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with these mouthwatering sliders, featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich and spicy chipotle BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the chipotle BBQ sauce over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing grilled chicken on hamburger buns and topping with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles (if using).
6. Cook time: approximately 20 minutes.
Tangy Carolina-Style BBQ Chicken Sandwich
A classic Southern favorite gets a tangy twist with this BBQ chicken sandwich recipe. Moist and flavorful chicken is slathered in a spicy-sweet BBQ sauce, served on a soft bun with crunchy coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Carolina-style BBQ sauce (with a tangy kick from vinegar and brown sugar)
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 head of iceberg lettuce, shredded
– 1 cup coleslaw ( store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Slather BBQ sauce on grilled chicken while it’s still warm.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing chicken on a bun, topping with shredded lettuce and coleslaw.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors of this Carolina-style BBQ chicken sandwich!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño Pineapple BBQ Chicken Sandwich
A sweet and spicy twist on classic chicken sandwiches, this recipe combines the flavors of grilled chicken, tangy pineapple, and spicy jalapeños with a hint of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, lime juice, and cilantro. Brush mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix pineapple and jalapeños in a separate bowl.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on buns, topping with pineapple-jalapeño mixture, lettuce, tomato, and red onion (if using).
6. Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy!
Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Coleslaw
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with this sweet and tangy Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwich, paired with a refreshing Coleslaw. This mouthwatering combination is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Bourbon BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
– Coleslaw ingredients:
+ 1 cup shredded cabbage
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
+ 1 teaspoon sugar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Bourbon BBQ sauce and chicken breasts; marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on hamburger buns with cheddar cheese (if using).
5. For Coleslaw, combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Mango BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Sweet and Spicy Mango BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with this mouthwatering Sweet and Spicy Mango BBQ Chicken Sandwich recipe. Succulent chicken breasts are marinated in a mixture of mango puree, BBQ sauce, and spices before being grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mango puree
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and avocado (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mango puree, BBQ sauce, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and avocado (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alabama White Sauce BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Get ready to taste the classic flavors of the South with this mouth-watering sandwich featuring tender chicken smothered in a creamy Alabama white sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Alabama white sauce (see below for recipe)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Alabama White Sauce Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp white vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading Alabama white sauce on each bun, then topping with grilled chicken, coleslaw, and pickle slices (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Pickled Veggies
Experience the bold flavors of Korean BBQ in a juicy chicken sandwich paired with tangy pickled veggies. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickled veggies (see below) for serving
Pickled Veggies:
– 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, and pickled veggies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Blue Cheese
Get ready to spice up your lunch game with this bold and tangy sandwich! The combination of crispy chicken, creamy blue cheese, and spicy buffalo BBQ sauce will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup buffalo BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp blue cheese crumbles
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion (optional)
– Mayonnaise or ranch dressing (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together buffalo BBQ sauce and 1 tbsp water.
3. Dip chicken breasts in the sauce mixture, then place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked chicken on hamburger buns, topping with blue cheese crumbles, lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayonnaise or ranch dressing (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peach BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Fresh Basil
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic chicken sandwich, this recipe combines juicy grilled chicken, caramelized peaches, and fresh basil for a flavor explosion in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup peach preserves
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 4 hamburger buns
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon per sandwich)
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves and BBQ sauce.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on each bun, topping with sliced peaches and chopped fresh basil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Guacamole BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Elevate your chicken sandwich game with this creamy and savory Guacamole BBQ Chicken Sandwich recipe! With the perfect balance of smoky BBQ flavor, fresh guacamole, and crispy chicken, this sandwich is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, and cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of chicken breasts; cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on grill or in toaster.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on toasted buns, followed by a dollop of mashed avocado and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this sweet and tangy take on a classic chicken sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill.
6. Assemble sandwiches by placing a grilled chicken breast on each bun, followed by your choice of toppings (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pulled BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Pickled Onions
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of pulled chicken, slathered in a rich BBQ sauce, served on a soft bun with crunchy pickled onions. This classic comfort food gets an added twist with a tangy pickle kick.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup pickling vinegar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 soft hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, pickling vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Shred chicken with two forks and stir in any remaining BBQ sauce.
7. Meanwhile, slice red onion into thin rings.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and salt.
9. Pour the pickling liquid over onions and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
10. Assemble sandwiches by spreading pulled chicken on buns and topping with pickled onions.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Spicy Garlic Parmesan BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this mouthwatering combination of spicy garlic, tangy parmesan, and sweet BBQ sauce. This bold flavor profile is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled chicken on the buns, topping with BBQ sauce and Parmesan cheese.
7. Add lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Bacon Ranch Sandwich
This mouthwatering sandwich combines tender grilled chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and sweet BBQ sauce on toasted buns, perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons of ranch dressing
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. Spread ranch dressing on the bottom bun of each sandwich.
5. Top with grilled chicken, crumbled bacon, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
6. Add lettuce, tomato, and red onion if desired. Assemble sandwiches and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Sweet and savory, this unique sandwich combines the flavors of pineapple teriyaki sauce with classic BBQ chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pineapple teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple teriyaki sauce and BBQ sauce.
3. Brush the chicken breasts with the sauce mixture on both sides.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a grilled chicken breast on each bun, followed by lettuce, tomato, and red onion if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Gouda BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your sandwich game with this sweet and savory combination of smoky gouda, tender chicken, and caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tbsp water. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, caramelize onions in a large skillet with olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on hamburger buns, topping with caramelized onions, and finishing with shredded smoked Gouda cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready for summer grilling with these 18 spicy barbecue chicken sandwiches! From classic pulled chicken to innovative flavor combinations, this list has something for everyone. Try the Honey Sriracha Barbecue Chicken Sandwich for a sweet and spicy kick or the Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Sliders for a smoldering taste. Or go bold with the Jalapeño Pineapple BBQ Chicken Sandwich or the Spicy Garlic Parmesan BBQ Chicken Sandwich. Whatever your taste, there’s a recipe here to make your summer grilling unforgettable.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
