Are you looking for a versatile and delicious protein to add to your meals? Look no further than pulled chicken! This tender, juicy meat can be used in a wide range of dishes, from classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution, we’ve got you covered with these 20 mouth-watering pulled chicken recipes.
From tacos and wraps to casseroles and salads, our collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches, Spicy Buffalo Pulled Chicken Tacos, or Asian-Inspired Pulled Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Or go for some more unique options like Pulled Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce, Pulled Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas, or Pulled Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers. Whatever you choose, we’re sure you’ll be hooked on the taste and ease of pulled chicken in no time!
Stay tuned to discover the full list of recipes and get ready to elevate your meal game with these scrumptious pulled chicken dishes.
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Elevate your mealtime with this mouthwatering slow cooker recipe that yields tender, flavorful pulled chicken smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for sandwiches or wraps, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 hamburger buns or soft rolls
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir in any remaining juices.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing the pulled chicken onto hamburger buns or soft rolls.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Buffalo Pulled Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the comfort of a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Sour cream
– Chopped cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce and melted butter. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Shred chicken with two forks and stir in any remaining buffalo sauce.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning pulled chicken onto tortillas, topping with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian-Inspired Pulled Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Asian-Inspired Pulled Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Experience the flavors of Asia with this refreshing twist on traditional wraps. Tender pulled chicken, crunchy veggies, and tangy sauces come together to create a deliciously healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken breast, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and sesame oil. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
3. In a separate bowl, mix chopped scallions, shredded carrots, and cilantro.
4. Assemble wraps by placing a spoonful of pulled chicken onto a lettuce leaf, followed by a sprinkle of veggie mixture and a drizzle of your favorite sauce (such as sriracha or soy sauce).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 3-4 hours (high heat)
Pulled Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce
Transform classic enchiladas into a flavorful and creamy delight by using tender pulled chicken and a tangy green sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup green enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble enchiladas by spooning pulled chicken onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Pour green enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Avocado Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines tender pulled chicken with creamy avocado and melted cheese for a deliciously satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts in your favorite seasonings until tender. Shred with two forks.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic until smooth.
4. Add cooked chicken to the cream cheese mixture and stir until combined.
5. Place tortillas on a baking sheet, then spoon chicken-cream cheese mixture onto half of each tortilla.
6. Top with diced avocado and shredded cheese (if using).
7. Fold tortillas in half and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pulled Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender pulled chicken with roasted bell peppers and a hint of smoky spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered.
3. Meanwhile, cook chicken breast in a skillet with diced onion and minced garlic until shredded and tender.
4. Stuff roasted bell peppers with cooked chicken mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Pineapple Sliders
These bite-sized sliders combine the tender flavors of pulled chicken with the sweetness of pineapple, all on a toasted bun. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine chicken, pineapple, brown sugar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Using two forks, pull the chicken apart into shreds.
4. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
5. Assemble sliders by spooning pulled chicken mixture onto buns. Add lettuce, tomato, and cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Pulled Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños
Pulled Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños: A spicy twist on classic nachos!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 cup tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts and barbecue sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until chicken is tender.
3. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Top with shredded cheese, black beans, and jalapeño slices.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the nachos and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 10-12 minutes (oven)
Pulled Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A comforting and flavorful twist on traditional pulled chicken and hash browns, this recipe combines tender shredded chicken with crispy sweet potato cubes and a hint of smoky flavor. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken breast, olive oil, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and combine with roasted sweet potatoes.
6. Serve hot on hamburger buns (if using) or as is.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Pulled Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these flavorful wraps that combine tender pulled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and tangy Caesar dressing all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 2 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, etc.)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 large tortillas
– Shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by spreading shredded chicken, mixed greens, and Parmesan cheese (if using) onto the tortilla.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Pulled Chicken and Black Bean Burritos
These burritos combine the comfort of pulled chicken with the bold flavors of black beans, wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Shred chicken with two forks.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in damp paper towels and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by spooning shredded chicken, black beans, and cheese (if using) onto tortillas.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Pulled Chicken Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Pulled Chicken Pizza with Caramelized Onions: A savory twist on classic pizza, this recipe combines tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and melted mozzarella for a mouthwatering combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust or 12-inch pizza dough
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. Shred chicken with two forks and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
5. Roll out pizza crust or shape dough into a circle.
6. Spread pizza sauce over the crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
7. Top with shredded chicken, caramelized onions, and mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Cornbread Casserole
This casserole combines tender pulled chicken, sweet corn, and crispy cornbread for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups cornbread mix
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add corn kernels, heavy cream, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is tender.
4. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the cooked chicken mixture in an even layer.
6. Top with prepared cornbread mixture, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Coleslaw Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Pulled Chicken and Coleslaw Stuffed Baked Potatoes: A flavorful twist on classic baked potatoes!
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke some holes in the potatoes, then bake for 45-60 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook the chicken breast or thighs in a slow cooker with barbecue sauce until tender, shredding into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a separate bowl, combine shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper for coleslaw.
5. Once potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and fill with pulled chicken, coleslaw, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Mango Salsa Tacos
Pulled Chicken and Mango Salsa Tacos: A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the tender juiciness of pulled chicken with the sweet and tangy flavors of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and mix in any remaining juices.
6. In a separate bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos by spooning pulled chicken onto tortillas and topping with mango salsa.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Macaroni Bake
A comforting, one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. This recipe combines tender pulled chicken, creamy macaroni, and a hint of spice in a satisfying casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add chicken to the skillet; cook until browned on all sides.
5. Transfer chicken mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add cooked macaroni, shredded cheese, and chicken broth to the baking dish. Toss until well combined.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Guacamole Tostadas
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering combination of tender pulled chicken, creamy guacamole, and crunchy tostadas. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 6-8 corn tortillas (tostadas)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts and BBQ sauce. Cook for 4-5 hours or until tender.
3. Mash avocados in a bowl with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Assemble tostadas by spreading guacamole on each tortilla, topping with pulled chicken, and adding optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (slow cooker) + 5 minutes (tortillas)
Pulled Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional stuffed shells! Tender chicken, wilted spinach, and creamy ricotta filling make for a deliciously satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Shred with two forks.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and wilt with chicken. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture and top with the ricotta mixture.
7. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Zucchini Fritters
This recipe combines the tender flavors of pulled chicken with the crispy, sweet goodness of zucchini fritters. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken breasts over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. Shred the chicken with two forks and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, panko breadcrumbs, egg, milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the zucchini mixture into the oil and flatten slightly.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve with pulled chicken.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Pulled Chicken and Pesto Flatbread
This recipe combines the tender comfort of pulled chicken with the bright, herby flavors of pesto, all wrapped up in a crispy flatbread crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pre-baked flatbread crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken breasts, pesto, olive oil, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Transfer mixture to a slow cooker or Dutch oven and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
4. Assemble flatbread by spreading pulled chicken over the crust, followed by sliced mozzarella (if using).
5. Bake in preheated oven for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these mouthwatering pulled chicken recipes! From classic BBQ sandwiches to international-inspired dishes like tacos and lettuce wraps, we’ve got you covered. Try out our slow cooker pulled chicken nachos or indulge in a pulled chicken pizza with caramelized onions. You can also go sweet and savory with pulled chicken and pineapple sliders or get your comfort food fix with pulled chicken and sweet potato hash. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these 20 delicious recipes are sure to please!