12 Shredded BBQ Chicken Recipes That Are Perfect For Parties And Meal Prep

12 Shredded BBQ Chicken Recipes That Are Perfect For Parties And Meal Prep – because nothing brings people together like tender, saucy chicken piled high on buns or tucked into meal prep containers. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at your backyard bash or stocking your fridge with ready-to-eat lunches, these versatile recipes deliver big flavor with minimal effort. From classic smoky-sweet versions to creative global twists, each dish transforms humble chicken into something extraordinary through the magic of low-and-slow cooking and bold barbecue sauces.

These crowd-pleasing recipes solve all your cooking dilemmas – they’re equally at home as the star of game day sliders, the protein in your weekly grain bowls, or the filling for loaded nachos. We’ve included slow cooker dump-and-go options for busy days, sheet pan versions for easy cleanup, and even grilled variations for that authentic charred flavor. With make-ahead tips and storage tricks, you’ll learn how to maximize flavor while minimizing weekday stress.

Zesty BBQ Chicken Pizza

This Zesty BBQ Chicken Pizza brings a delightful twist to your pizza night! With the perfect blend of smoky BBQ flavors, tender chicken, and fresh toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both tasty and easy to whip up. Whether you’re planning a party or looking for a quick meal prep option, this recipe fits the bill.

The balance of tangy BBQ sauce, savory chicken, and crisp veggies creates a pizza that’s satisfying and fun to eat. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings for an even more personal touch. Get ready to impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pizza crust
• 1 cup shredded BBQ chicken
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup diced pineapple (optional)
• Olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust on a floured surface and transfer it to a baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush the crust with olive oil.
3. Spread the BBQ sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with shredded BBQ chicken and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over everything.
5. Add the sliced red onion and optional pineapple on top.
6. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.

Tangy Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bowls

These Tangy Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bowls are a lively blend of sweet and tangy flavors that make them a hit for any gathering. The juicy chicken, coated in a rich BBQ sauce, pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pineapple chunks and colorful bell peppers, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Easy to prepare, these bowls come together quickly, making them ideal for meal prep or a casual get-together. Serve over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red and yellow)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, cook the shredded chicken over medium heat until warmed through. Add the BBQ sauce and stir well to coat.
2. Add Pineapple and Peppers: Mix in the diced pineapple and bell peppers. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the peppers are tender.
3. Assemble the Bowls: Serve the BBQ chicken mixture over cooked rice in bowls. Top with chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately or store in airtight containers for meal prep throughout the week!

Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Tacos

These Spicy Chipotle Shredded Chicken Tacos pack a punch of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. With tender chicken simmered in a spicy chipotle sauce, each bite is a delightful blend of smoky and spicy goodness. They are super simple to whip up, making them perfect for both weeknight dinners and party gatherings.

Pair these tacos with fresh toppings like cilantro, lime, and your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or prepping for the week ahead, these tacos are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chipotle sauce
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 limes, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a slow cooker, add chicken breasts, chicken broth, chipotle sauce, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
2. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the sauce.
3. Warm the Tortillas: In a skillet, warm tortillas over medium heat until pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, top with chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Savory BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole

This BBQ Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comfort food delight that combines tender, shredded chicken with zesty barbecue sauce and fluffy rice. It’s packed with flavor and has a rich, savory taste that everyone will love. Plus, it’s super easy to make, making it a perfect choice for parties or meal prep.

The dish brings together the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce, juicy chicken, and the heartiness of rice, creating a satisfying meal that’s great for feeding a crowd or preparing in advance. Once baked to perfection, the casserole is a warm and inviting dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
4. Top the casserole with shredded cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your savory BBQ chicken and rice casserole!

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas with Avocado

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your shredded BBQ chicken. These quesadillas are loaded with melted cheese and tender chicken, making them both hearty and satisfying. With the addition of fresh avocado, each bite is creamy and refreshing, balancing the smoky flavors of the BBQ sauce perfectly.

They are straightforward to prepare, making them ideal for parties or meal prep. You can whip these up in no time, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra kick!

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded BBQ chicken
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup salsa (for dipping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Place one tortilla in the skillet.
2. Evenly distribute half of the shredded cheese on top of the tortilla, then layer on the shredded BBQ chicken and diced avocado.
3. Sprinkle with cilantro and season with salt and pepper. Top with another tortilla and cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
4. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from skillet, slice into wedges, and serve with salsa for dipping. Enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken quesadillas!

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The creamy sweetness of the baked sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the smoky, tangy BBQ chicken, creating a satisfying dish that’s both hearty and healthy. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

This recipe brings together tender shredded chicken coated in BBQ sauce, all nestled inside beautifully baked sweet potatoes. Topped with fresh green onions for a bit of crunch, these stuffed potatoes are a hit at any meal. Perfect for meal prep, you can make a batch ahead of time and reheat them for a quick lunch or dinner option!

Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet.
2. Bake the sweet potatoes for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While the sweet potatoes are baking, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce in a bowl until well coated.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut them in half lengthwise and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
5. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture into the sweet potato halves and top with chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

Creamy BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. With tender pasta, shredded BBQ chicken, and fresh vegetables, it’s both satisfying and refreshing. This dish is especially great for gatherings or meal prep, as it can be made ahead and served cold.

The creamy dressing adds a delightful tang, while the BBQ flavor makes each bite irresistible. Easy to prepare, this pasta salad can be thrown together in no time, making it a go-to recipe for busy days or festive occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rotini or fusilli pasta
• 2 cups shredded BBQ chicken
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen and thawed)
• 1/2 cup creamy ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, shredded BBQ chicken, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and corn.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and BBQ sauce until smooth. Pour this over the pasta mixture and gently toss to combine.
4. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste and toss again to ensure everything is well coated.
5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Honey Garlic Shredded BBQ Chicken Sliders

These Honey Garlic Shredded BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that everyone loves. The tender chicken, simmered in a rich honey-garlic BBQ sauce, is perfect for parties or meal prep. They’re easy to whip up and make for a fantastic finger food option!

With their mouthwatering taste and simplicity, these sliders bring a fun twist to your gatherings. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings for a dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the comfort of homemade sliders that pack a punch of flavor!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 slider buns
• Optional toppings: pickles, jalapeños, or coleslaw

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, BBQ sauce, honey, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
4. Assemble Sliders: Spoon the shredded chicken mixture onto the slider buns. Top with your choice of pickles, jalapeños, or coleslaw for an extra kick.
5. Serve: Enjoy the sliders warm and watch them disappear!

BBQ Chicken Nachos with Cheese and Jalapeños

BBQ Chicken Nachos are a deliciously satisfying dish that combines the smoky sweetness of barbecued chicken with crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and a kick of jalapeños. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or even casual weeknight dinners, making it as versatile as it is tasty.

Easy to put together, these nachos can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, the combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded BBQ chicken
• 1 bag tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 cup guacamole (for serving)
• 1 cup sour cream (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet.
3. Top the chips with the shredded BBQ chicken and sprinkle the cheddar cheese generously over the top.
4. Add sliced jalapeños and black olives for extra flavor.
5. Bake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. Serve hot with guacamole and sour cream on the side.

BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps

BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a fun and healthy way to enjoy the classic flavors of BBQ chicken without the heaviness of bread. These wraps are light, crispy, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for parties or a quick meal prep option. They’re also super easy to whip up, so you can have a delicious dish ready in no time!

The tender, shredded BBQ chicken is perfectly complemented by the crunch of fresh lettuce leaves and topped with colorful diced veggies. Each bite is a delightful mix of smoky, sweet, and savory notes that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 8 large lettuce leaves (such as Romaine or Butterhead)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix the chicken and BBQ sauce in a bowl until well combined. Adjust the amount of sauce to taste.
2. Wash and dry the lettuce leaves, making sure they are intact and not torn.
3. Spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf.
4. Top with diced tomatoes, green bell pepper, and red onion. Add cilantro if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps!

BBQ Chicken Fajitas with Colorful Peppers

BBQ Chicken Fajitas bring a delightful twist to a classic dish. Combining tender shredded chicken with a mix of vibrant bell peppers, this recipe is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly easy to whip up. The smoky sweetness of the BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the crunch of the peppers, making each bite a colorful burst of taste.

This dish is perfect for any gathering or meal prep, as it can be made in advance and reheated easily. Serve it with warm tortillas for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to go!

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers and sauté until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Serve the BBQ chicken mixture in warm tortillas, and enjoy your colorful fajitas!

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken Meatballs

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, these sweet and spicy BBQ chicken meatballs are a fantastic choice. They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and perfect for both parties and meal prep. The combination of sweet and spicy BBQ sauce adds a delightful kick, making them a hit at any gathering.

Making these meatballs is simple and quick. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love. Serve them as an appetizer on skewers or toss them in a sandwich for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup sweet and spicy BBQ sauce
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through and golden brown.
5. In a separate saucepan, heat the sweet and spicy BBQ sauce over low heat. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the sauce until well coated.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Final Thoughts

Shredded BBQ chicken is the ultimate culinary multitasker – equally comfortable at a summer cookout or in your Wednesday lunchbox. What makes these recipes special isn’t just their finger-licking goodness, but how they adapt to your schedule and cravings. Whether you prefer your chicken sticky with Kansas City-style sauce, bright with Carolina vinegar tang, or spiced with Tex-Mex flavors, these 12 approaches prove there’s no wrong way to do shredded BBQ chicken. Keep these recipes in your back pocket, and you’ll always be ready to feed a crowd or fuel your week with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.