There’s something irresistible about tender, slow-cooked chicken drenched in smoky, tangy barbecue sauce—pulled apart into juicy shreds that soak up every drop of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd at game day, firing up the grill for a summer cookout, or just craving a hearty, no-fuss meal, shredded BBQ chicken is the ultimate comfort food that never disappoints.
In this roundup, we’ve gathered 14 finger-licking recipes that take shredded BBQ chicken from basic to brilliant. Picture fall-off-the-bone chicken thighs smothered in a sticky bourbon-infused glaze, zesty citrus-marinated pulled chicken piled high on buttered buns, or spicy chipotle BBQ shreds melting into a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. From classic slow-cooker versions to bold new twists—like Korean-inspired gochujang BBQ or honey mustard pulled chicken—these recipes prove just how versatile this crowd-pleasing dish can be.
We’ve also included pro tips for getting that perfect shred, balancing sweet and smoky flavors, and pairing your chicken with the best sides (think creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or crispy onion rings). Whether you’re meal prepping for easy lunches, hosting a backyard bash, or just want a saucy, satisfying dinner with minimal effort, these recipes guarantee juicy, flavorful results every time.
So grab your favorite BBQ sauce, fire up the slow cooker or grill, and get ready to dig into the most delicious shredded chicken dishes that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Tangy Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tacos
These Tangy Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring together the sweetness of pineapple with the savory richness of BBQ chicken. They’re not just tasty but also super easy to whip up, making them perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
The combination of juicy shredded chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and fresh pineapple chunks creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to make these crowd-pleasing tacos!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in a bowl, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
- Heat the corn tortillas in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until warm.
- Assemble the tacos by placing a generous amount of the BBQ chicken on each tortilla.
- Add pineapple chunks and sliced red onion on top of the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad
This creamy BBQ chicken pasta salad is a delicious blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for picnics or family gatherings. The combination of tender shredded chicken, pasta, and a rich BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that’s both filling and refreshing.
It’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys a satisfying meal. Get ready to savor every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (your choice)
- 2 cups shredded BBQ chicken
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded BBQ chicken, diced bell pepper, and sliced green onions.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and BBQ sauce until smooth.
- Pour the mayo-BBQ mixture over the pasta and chicken, stirring until everything is well coated.
- Add chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken Sliders
These Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful treat that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. Imagine tender, shredded chicken tossed in a rich barbecue sauce that balances sweetness and smokiness perfectly. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.
With their juicy filling and soft slider buns, these sliders are sure to please any crowd. You can even customize them with your favorite toppings, adding a little crunch or extra zest to elevate the experience. Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of these irresistible sliders!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 12 slider buns
- 1/4 cup sliced pickles
- 1/4 cup coleslaw (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the shredded chicken and barbecue sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Split the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture generously over each bun.
- Add sliced pickles on top of the chicken, and if desired, a scoop of coleslaw for extra crunch.
- Cover with the top halves of the buns. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the buns are lightly toasted and the sliders are heated through.
- Serve warm and enjoy your sweet and smoky BBQ chicken sliders!
Zesty BBQ Chicken Nachos
These Zesty BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun and delicious way to enjoy your meal. With a mix of spicy and savory flavors, they’re perfect for parties or a casual dinner. This crowd-pleaser is easy to whip up, making it a great choice for any occasion. Just layer your ingredients and let the baking do the work!
The combination of shredded BBQ chicken, crunchy tortilla chips, and fresh toppings creates a satisfying bite that everyone will love. From the melted cheese to the tangy BBQ sauce, each layer adds to the deliciousness. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite toppings, so feel free to get creative!
Ingredients
- 4 cups tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded BBQ chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet.
- Top the chips with shredded BBQ chicken and sprinkle the cheddar cheese over everything.
- Add the sliced jalapeños and diced tomatoes on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with BBQ sauce and sour cream before serving.
BBQ Chicken and Corn Chowder
This BBQ Chicken and Corn Chowder is a delightful twist on the classic chowder, combining the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ chicken with sweet corn and creamy goodness. It’s comforting and hearty, making it perfect for chilly days or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal!
The blend of tender shredded chicken, fresh corn, and zesty BBQ sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, and you’ll have a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded BBQ chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until soft.
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded BBQ chicken, sweet corn, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Pizza
If you’re looking for a pizza that packs a punch, this Buffalo BBQ Chicken Pizza is a must-try. It combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce with the spicy kick of buffalo sauce, creating a flavor explosion that everyone will love. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends.
This pizza features a crispy crust topped with shredded BBQ chicken, a tangy blend of sauces, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions for that perfect crunch. It’s juicy, saucy, and utterly delicious, ensuring it will be a hit with any crowd!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven according to the pizza crust package instructions.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and buffalo sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Roll out the pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush with olive oil.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly on the crust, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions before slicing and serving.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and satisfying dish that packs a punch of flavor. Imagine juicy pulled chicken, smothered in tangy barbecue sauce and mixed with melted cheese, all nestled in sweet bell peppers. This recipe is not only tasty, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
The combination of smoky BBQ chicken and fresh vegetables creates a delightful contrast that your taste buds will appreciate. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a comforting meal. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, cooked rice, corn, diced onion, and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the chicken mixture, packing it in tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps
BBQ chicken lettuce wraps are a light and refreshing dish that packs a punch of flavor. Tender shredded chicken tossed in a tangy barbecue sauce is wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, creating the perfect hand-held meal. The combination of the savory chicken with the crunch of fresh veggies makes each bite satisfying and delicious.
This recipe is simple to whip up, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Just a few ingredients come together quickly, ensuring you can serve a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 head of iceberg or romaine lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine diced bell peppers, cucumbers, and green onions. Drizzle with olive oil, and add salt and pepper to taste.
- Lay out the lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture into each leaf, followed by a scoop of the vegetable mixture.
- Serve immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy their fresh wraps!
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with Cheese
BBQ chicken quesadillas are a delightful blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors all wrapped in crispy tortillas. These quesadillas are not just tasty but also incredibly simple to make, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Each bite features juicy shredded chicken mixed with tangy BBQ sauce and melty cheese, creating a satisfying and comforting dish. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings like green onions, cilantro, or even a dollop of sour cream for dipping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or salsa (for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese, followed by the BBQ chicken mixture, and then more cheese on top.
- Fold the tortilla over and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Slice into wedges and serve hot with your favorite toppings.
BBQ Chicken Flatbreads with Avocado
BBQ chicken flatbreads with avocado are a delightful combination of tender shredded chicken and creamy avocado, all served on a warm flatbread base. The sweetness of the BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the smooth avocado, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
These flatbreads are versatile and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings. The juicy BBQ chicken and fresh herbs provide a flavor punch, while the avocado adds a creamy texture that elevates the whole dish. Everyone will enjoy this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 flatbreads or tortillas
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch or creamy dressing (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Warm the flatbreads in a skillet or microwave until soft.
- Spread a layer of ranch or creamy dressing on each flatbread if using.
- Top each flatbread with the BBQ chicken mixture, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken flatbreads!
BBQ Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Get ready for a tasty and satisfying meal that packs a punch! This BBQ Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowl brings together juicy shredded chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and fluffy cauliflower rice for a dish that’s both comforting and healthy. The flavors meld deliciously, creating a satisfying experience that everyone will love.
What’s great about this recipe is its simplicity—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends. You can customize it with fresh veggies, your favorite toppings, or even a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked cauliflower rice
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, lime wedges, diced tomatoes
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce, stirring to combine. Cook until heated through.
- In bowls, divide the cauliflower rice as a base. Top with the BBQ chicken mixture.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro. Add any additional toppings you like, such as avocado or lime juice.
- Serve warm and enjoy a delicious, balanced meal!
BBQ Chicken Jambalaya
BBQ Chicken Jambalaya combines the smoky, sweet flavors of barbecue sauce with the comforting, hearty goodness of jambalaya. It’s a delightful one-pot meal that’s bursting with taste, featuring tender shredded chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a medley of spices. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to whip up, making it perfect for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends.
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you prefer more heat with some added spices or a touch of sweetness, feel free to adjust the flavors. Serve this jambalaya with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the onion, bell peppers, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the shredded chicken, rice, chicken broth, barbecue sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Fluff the jambalaya with a fork and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!
Spicy BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw
Spicy BBQ chicken sandwiches are a delightful combination of tender, saucy chicken topped with a crunchy slaw that adds a refreshing kick. This recipe is simple and perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering. The juicy chicken drenched in spicy BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the crisp, tangy slaw, making each bite satisfying and flavorful.
With minimal prep and cooking time, these sandwiches are sure to please a crowd. Plus, they’re versatile; feel free to customize the slaw with your favorite ingredients. Grab some buns and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup spicy BBQ sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
- Mix the slaw: In a bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
- Prepare the chicken: In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the spicy BBQ sauce until fully coated.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Layer the BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun, then top with the slaw. Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat if you like.
- Serve: Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich, serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy!
BBQ Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
This BBQ Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash is a delightful dish that combines tender shredded chicken with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. The smoky BBQ flavor infuses the entire meal, making it not only satisfying but also packed with flavor. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty brunch option that everyone will love.
The combination of textures is fantastic, with the creamy sweet potatoes complementing the juicy chicken. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you. Serve it topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the sweet potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce, mixing well to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Final Thoughts
Shredded BBQ chicken is the kind of dish that brings people together—simple, saucy, and packed with flavor. With these 14 recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy it, whether you’re craving classic comfort or something new and exciting. From sandwiches to tacos, nachos to salads, there’s a BBQ chicken creation here for every occasion. So pick a recipe, get shredding, and watch how quickly it disappears from the plate. Your next favorite meal is just a few juicy bites away!