Spoon Simple
Air Fryer BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Tender chicken breasts shredded and tossed in smoky BBQ sauce, then crisped slightly in the air fryer. Perfect for quick sliders or full-sized sandwiches.
Prep 10 min
Cook 20 min
Total 30 min
Serves 6
Ingredients
Step 1 — For the Pulled Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 2 — For Serving
- 6-8 slider buns or hamburger buns
- Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Season and Cook Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Place chicken in the air fryer basket (you may need to cook in batches depending on size). Cook at 370°F (185°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- 2
Shred Chicken
Remove cooked chicken from the air fryer and place on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- 3
Sauce and Crisp
Return the shredded chicken to the air fryer basket. Pour BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar over the chicken and toss to coat. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is slightly caramelized and the chicken is heated through. This step adds a nice texture.
- 4
Assemble Sandwiches
Toast the buns lightly if desired. Pile the BBQ pulled chicken onto the buns. Add coleslaw if using. Serve immediately.
Nutrition per serving: 450 cal · 35g protein · 40g carbs · 15g fat · 2g fiber
For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Verify ingredients for allergens, cooking times, and safe internal temperatures before serving.
