Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches – A Flavorful, Lighter Twist on a Classic
Prep Time: 30 Minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes
Total Time: 1 Hour
Servings: 4
Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
Difficulty: Easy
Description
Craving a barbecue meal but looking for a healthier, lighter alternative? These Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches are the perfect solution! Bursting with rich, tangy flavors and packed with protein, this recipe is a keeper for those who want the smoky, savory goodness of a traditional barbecue dish without the heaviness. Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday lunch or a satisfying snack, these sandwiches are a delicious option that won’t compromise your health goals.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1/2 medium |
| Celery (finely chopped) | 1/2 stalk |
| Garlic clove (minced) | 1 |
| Butter (for sautéing) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salsa (mild or medium) | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Ketchup | 2 tablespoons |
| Cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Cooked chicken (shredded) | 2 cups |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 222.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 7.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 60.1 mg |
| Sodium | 657 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 19.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugars | 16 g |
| Protein | 18.9 g |
Instructions
-
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and aromatic. -
-
Prepare the Sauce
Stir in the salsa, ketchup, brown sugar, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and ground pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients into a flavorful sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors. -
Add the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to coat the chicken in the sauce mixture. Make sure the chicken is well-coated and evenly distributed. -
Simmer the Mixture
Bring the chicken and sauce mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the chicken to absorb the flavors and become tender. -
Assemble the Sandwiches
After the chicken has simmered, remove the skillet from the heat. To serve, spoon about 1/3 cup of the chicken mixture onto each sandwich bun. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
-
Sandwich Buns: Choose whole grain or low-calorie buns to keep the dish light and wholesome. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, you can serve the barbecue chicken on lettuce leaves or in a lettuce wrap.
-
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture for an extra kick.
-
Make It a Meal: Serve the sandwiches with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad to create a more filling meal.
These Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches are a simple and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of a summer barbecue year-round. Quick, easy, and full of deliciousness, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether for lunch, dinner, or a weekend snack, you’ll love the balance of tangy, savory, and smoky flavors in every bite!
