Southern Grill Lunch: Memphis-Style Barbecue Chicken Sandwich

Find the perfect Southern Grill Lunch with this easy and delicious recipe for a Memphis-style Barbecue Chicken Sandwich that captures the essence of a Friday night tailgate or secret restaurant hack.

Time: (Prep, Cook, Total): 10 minutes (prep), 6-8 hours (cook)

Servings: 2 sandwiches

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American, Southern

Allergens

Gluten (in buns), Dairy (butter)

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably Memphis
style)
4 hamburger buns
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Coleslaw (store
bought or homemade)

Instructions

Combine the chicken breasts and barbecue sauce in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 8 hours or high for 3 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken directly in the slow cooker. Stir well to coat with barbecue sauce.
Split the buns and spread a generous amount of butter on each cut side. Toast the buns on a grill or griddle until golden brown.
Assemble the sandwiches: Add a heaping portion of shredded chicken to each toasted bun, top with coleslaw, and serve immediately.

Chef’s Insight

The key to a great Memphis-style barbecue chicken sandwich is a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, so adjust the barbecue sauce to your preference.

Notes

Customize your coleslaw with different types of vinegar or mayonnaise for added flavor variety.

Substitutions

For gluten-free, use gluten-free hamburger buns or lettuce wraps; for dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute.

Alternative Preparations

For a quicker version, use pre-cooked chicken and heat it with the barbecue sauce in a saucepan over medium heat for 10 minutes.

Alternative Methods

If you don't have a slow cooker, use a Dutch oven or pressure cooker according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Best Storage Practice

Store cooked chicken separately from the barbecue sauce; refrigerate within an hour of cooking. Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Shelf Life

Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Plating Tips

Serve on a rustic wooden board or a checkered tablecloth, with a side of crispy fries or potato salad.

Nutrition Facts

(Per sandwich) Calories 550, Fat 15g, Protein 45g, Carbohydrates 65g, Sugar 30g, Sodium 1200mg