12 BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipes For The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Food

12 BBQ Pulled Chicken Recipes For The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Food – because nothing satisfies like tender, saucy chicken that falls apart with just a fork. When you’re craving that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors but don’t have hours to spare, these pulled chicken recipes are your weeknight saviors. From classic barbecue versions that’ll transport you to a Southern smokehouse to creative global twists featuring Korean gochujang or Caribbean jerk spices, we’ve got every flavor profile covered to turn simple chicken into something extraordinary.

What makes these recipes truly special is how they transform humble chicken into melt-in-your-mouth magic with minimal effort. Whether you prefer your pulled chicken slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot, quickly simmered on the stovetop, or even made with rotisserie chicken for instant gratification, we’ve included all the techniques to fit your schedule. Each recipe delivers that perfect saucy texture and bold flavor that makes pulled chicken so addictive – ideal for stuffing sandwiches, piling onto nachos, or simply eating straight from the bowl with your favorite sides.

BBQ Pulled Chicken Pizza

BBQ Pulled Chicken Pizza is a fun twist on classic pizza that’s packed with flavor. Tender pulled chicken, slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, sits atop a crispy crust, making for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

This pizza offers a delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors, complemented by fresh toppings like red onions and cilantro. It’s not just delicious; it’s also super simple to whip up, making it a favorite for busy nights when comfort food is a must.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pizza crust
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until well-coated.
3. Spread the barbecue chicken evenly over the pizza crust.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Add the sliced red onion evenly over the cheese.
6. Bake in the oven until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly, typically around 12-15 minutes.
7. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro before slicing and serving.

Sweet and Smoky Pineapple Pulled Chicken

This Sweet and Smoky Pineapple Pulled Chicken recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of juicy shredded chicken, sweet pineapple, and a smoky barbecue sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The flavors meld beautifully, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness that pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or in a sandwich. Plus, the recipe requires minimal prep time, which means you can enjoy a hearty dinner without much fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sliced green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the Sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar over the chicken.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir to combine with the sauce and pineapple.
5. Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and enjoy on its own, over rice, or in a sandwich!

Honey Mustard Pulled Chicken Tacos

These Honey Mustard Pulled Chicken Tacos are a fantastic blend of sweet and tangy flavors, creating a delightful twist on your typical taco night. With tender, shredded chicken coated in a honey mustard sauce, these tacos are both satisfying and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

The combination of honey and mustard brings a unique taste that pairs wonderfully with fresh lime and cilantro. You can whip these up in no time, making them an ideal choice for busy evenings when you crave something delicious without the hassle. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small tortillas
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a slow cooker, add the chicken breasts. In a separate bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
2. Shred the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
3. Combine: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir well, ensuring the chicken is coated in the sauce.
4. Serve: Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the pulled chicken, and top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
5. Enjoy: Serve your tacos immediately, and enjoy a delightful meal!

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders with Slaw

BBQ pulled chicken sliders are the perfect weeknight meal. They are simple to make and packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. The tender, shredded chicken is smothered in tangy barbecue sauce and served on soft slider buns, topped with crunchy slaw for an extra bite.

This recipe brings together the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken with the freshness of slaw, making each bite a delight. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, so you can whip them up even on busy evenings. Serve them at your next gathering, and they’re sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 slider buns
• 1 cup coleslaw mix
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Jalapeño slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
2. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the BBQ sauce in the slow cooker and mix well.
3. Make the Slaw: In a bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Stir until well mixed.
4. Assemble the Sliders: Cut the slider buns in half. Spoon the BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each bun, top with coleslaw, and add jalapeño slices if using. Place the top half of the bun on each slider.
5. Serve: Enjoy the sliders warm with your favorite sides!

Mediterranean Pulled Chicken Wraps

Mediterranean pulled chicken wraps are a delightful twist on traditional pulled chicken, bringing together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. With tender, seasoned chicken enveloped in soft tortillas and complemented by crunchy vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and healthy. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The combination of herbs, spices, and fresh toppings creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste, adding your favorite veggies or sauces for an extra zing. It’s a fun and easy meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked pulled chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pulled chicken, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the chicken is heated through and well combined with the spices.
2. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave for a few seconds until pliable.
3. Layer each tortilla with the seasoned chicken, diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
4. Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the top and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
5. Wrap the tortillas tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling. Cut in half if desired and serve immediately.

Spicy Chipotle Pulled Chicken Bowls

Spicy chipotle pulled chicken bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal packed with flavor. The chicken is tender, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy, making it a delightful choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

With a base of fluffy rice, topped with the pulled chicken, black beans, fresh avocado, and a sprinkle of cilantro, these bowls are both nutritious and delicious. They’re customizable too—feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, chicken broth, chipotle sauce, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
2. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker, mixing it with the sauce to coat evenly.
3. Assemble the Bowls: In a bowl, layer the cooked rice, shredded chicken, and black beans. Top with fresh avocado slices and garnish with cilantro.
4. Serve: Enjoy your spicy chipotle pulled chicken bowls hot, and feel free to add any extra toppings you love!

Cilantro Lime Pulled Chicken Quesadillas

Cilantro Lime Pulled Chicken Quesadillas are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With tender pulled chicken tossed in a zesty cilantro lime sauce, these quesadillas are both tangy and savory, making them a hit for any weeknight meal. The gooey melted cheese and crispy tortillas add a satisfying crunch that everyone will love.

This recipe is super easy to whip up, perfect for busy evenings. You can use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time. Serve with your favorite salsa and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked pulled chicken
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine pulled chicken, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated with the seasoning.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle half of the cheese on one side, then add half of the pulled chicken mixture. Top with the remaining cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
3. Cook the Quesadilla: Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted. Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly before slicing.
4. Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
5. Serve: Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve with salsa and lime wedges on the side.

Classic BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches

Classic BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches are a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for weeknights. The tender, juicy chicken is slow-cooked with a tangy barbecue sauce, creating a dish that’s sweet, smoky, and packed with flavor. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and just a few ingredients.

These sandwiches are perfect served on soft buns, topped with creamy coleslaw for a delightful crunch. The combination of the savory chicken and the freshness of the slaw makes each bite satisfying. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just looking for an easy dinner option, this recipe will hit the spot!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1 cup coleslaw (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts. Pour in the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken.
2. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
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 the Sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Pile the pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each bun, top with coleslaw if using, and place the top bun on.
5. Serve: Enjoy your classic BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches hot, perhaps with some pickles on the side!

Pulled Chicken Nachos with Cheese Sauce

Pulled chicken nachos with cheese sauce are the ultimate comfort food for any weeknight. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken, crispy tortilla chips, and gooey cheese sauce creates a deliciously satisfying dish. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for sharing, making it a go-to for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

The balance of flavors and textures makes these nachos irresistible. The spicy kick from jalapeños and the creaminess of sour cream elevate the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with taste. Plus, this recipe is simple to customize with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients

• 2 cups pulled chicken (cooked)
• 1 bag of tortilla chips
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the tortilla chips on a baking sheet in an even layer.
3. Top the chips with pulled chicken, diced tomatoes, and a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
4. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove the nachos from the oven and sprinkle with sliced jalapeños and chopped green onions.
6. Drizzle sour cream on top before serving. Enjoy!

Buffalo Pulled Chicken Mac and Cheese

Buffalo Pulled Chicken Mac and Cheese is the perfect dish for when you crave comfort food with a spicy kick. Combining tender, flavorful pulled chicken with rich, creamy cheese sauce and a hint of buffalo sauce, this recipe satisfies both cheese lovers and those looking for a bit of heat. It’s simple to whip up, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.

This dish not only packs a punch in flavor but also offers a delightful texture with the chewy pasta and tender chicken. Topped with green onions for a fresh crunch, this mac and cheese is a fun twist on a classic that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
4. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Garlic Herb Pulled Chicken Pasta

This Garlic Herb Pulled Chicken Pasta is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will make your weeknight dinner a hit. It’s creamy and comforting, with tender pulled chicken coated in a rich garlic herb sauce, all tossed with spaghetti for a satisfying meal.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also simple to whip up. You can have it on the table in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings when you still want something delicious and comforting.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked pulled chicken
• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the pulled chicken, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
4. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

BBQ Pulled Chicken Stuffed Peppers

BBQ Pulled Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a tasty and vibrant dish that adds a fun twist to your weeknight meals. The sweetness of bell peppers pairs perfectly with the smoky, savory flavor of pulled chicken, creating a satisfying bite every time. Plus, they’re super easy to make and can be ready in no time!

This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. You can customize the flavors to suit your taste, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Stuff them with your favorite BBQ sauce and cheese for a comforting, hearty meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 2 cups cooked pulled chicken
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup diced onions
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the pulled chicken, BBQ sauce, diced onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4. Stuff the mixture evenly into each bell pepper, pressing down gently. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

Final Thoughts

Pulled chicken is the ultimate blank canvas for barbecue creativity, and these 12 recipes prove just how versatile this comfort food can be. What they all share is that magical combination of juicy meat and finger-licking sauce that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special. The best part? Most of these dishes can be made ahead and taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners. So grab your favorite barbecue sauce (or make your own), and get ready to discover your new go-to chicken recipe that’ll have everyone at your table asking for seconds!