Sam When Father’s Day rolls around, I always reach for recipes that bring big flavor without a lot of fuss—and these Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches never disappoint. I load tender shredded chicken onto toasted buns, coat it in a sticky-sweet, smoky bourbon barbecue sauce, and top it with slaw or pickles for that perfect crunch. It’s bold, satisfying, and packed with flavor that Dad’s sure to love.
For me, barbecue is about more than just taste—it’s about creating moments around the table (or grill) that feel a little more special. The bourbon in this sauce brings a subtle caramelized depth that elevates the classic BBQ flavor with just enough Southern flair to keep things interesting. Whether I’m grilling, slow cooking, or sautéing the chicken depending on the day’s schedule, I know this meal is going to hit the mark. It’s my go-to for cookouts, casual get-togethers, and especially Father’s Day.
I love how easy it is to make these ahead of time too. The sauce comes together quickly and simmers until thick and glossy, and the shredded chicken soaks it all up beautifully. I toast the buns for a bit of texture, pile on the filling, and let everyone customize their own with slaw, cheese, or even a slice of grilled pineapple if I’m feeling fancy. It’s a great way to bring people together without spending the whole day in the kitchen.
This recipe reminds me a lot of my Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs—another sweet and savory favorite that’s become a Father’s Day staple in my house. And if you’re after more handheld crowd-pleasers, don’t miss my Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites for something bold and bite-sized.
Want more flavor-packed recipes for your summer gatherings? Explore my comfort food dinner category, browse all easy dinner ideas, or dive into the world of weeknight dinners that don’t skimp on flavor.
Whether I’m celebrating big or just making an ordinary lunch feel special, these Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches always deliver—and trust me, you’ll be asked to make them again before the day is over. Want to dive deeper into the science of alcohol in cooking? Check out this article from the ScienceDirect on cooking with alcohol. Curious about nutritional info for BBQ chicken? Explore the National Chicken Council’s guide. Want to learn how to pair bourbon with food? Read this beginner’s guide from Whiskey Advocate.
Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches (Bold, Saucy, and Made for Father’s Day)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for stovetop or grill
For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup bourbon any good-quality variety
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- 6 brioche buns or sandwich rolls
- Coleslaw optional
- Pickles or sliced onions optional
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:– Slow Cooker: Add chicken and a bit of salt, cook on low for 6 hours.– Stovetop: Sear chicken in olive oil, then simmer covered with water until fully cooked.– Grill: Grill chicken until charred and cooked through, then shred.
- Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:– Combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan.– Simmer over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Shred and Toss:– Shred chicken with forks or a mixer.– Add chicken to sauce and toss to coat completely.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:– Toast buns.– Pile chicken high on the bottom half.– Top with slaw, pickles, or onions if desired.– Cover with top bun and serve hot.
Notes
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cuisine: American / Southern-Inspired
- Servings: 6 sandwiches
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (or 4–6 hours slow cooker)
- Total Time: ~30 minutes (active)
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Sandwich)
- Calories: ~460
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 34g
- Sugar: 18g
Budget Breakdown
- Chicken breasts or thighs: ~$6.00
- Bourbon BBQ sauce ingredients: ~$4.00
- Buns and toppings: ~$4.00
- Total Cost: ~$14.00
- Cost per Serving: ~$2.30
Why You’ll Love These Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
- Finger-licking good and full of bold flavor
- Versatile cooking methods: grill, slow cooker, or stovetop
- Perfect for Father’s Day and summer BBQs
- Crowd-pleasing and customizable
- Easy to prep ahead and reheat
Perfect For:
- Father’s Day cookouts and parties
- Backyard grilling or tailgate menus
- Pulled chicken meal prep
- Bourbon lovers and BBQ fans
- Slider stations or sandwich bars
Behind the Recipe
This recipe was born from my dad’s love of bourbon, BBQ, and messy sandwiches you need both hands to eat. The sweet and smoky bourbon BBQ sauce clings to shredded chicken and caramelizes slightly under heat. The trick is to use a high-quality bourbon and let the sauce simmer to bring out all the richness.
We serve it on toasted brioche buns or slider rolls, topped with slaw or pickles for crunch. It’s always the first dish to disappear at Father’s Day gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for stovetop or grill)
For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup bourbon (any good-quality variety)
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- 6 brioche buns or sandwich rolls
- Coleslaw (optional)
- Pickles or sliced onions (optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Bourbon: Use one with vanilla and caramel notes—budget-friendly options work fine.
- Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are juicier; breasts shred more easily.
- Molasses + Brown Sugar: Provide depth and that signature sticky-sweet finish.
- Worcestershire & Dijon: Add umami and tang.
- Ketchup & Vinegar: The base that balances sweet and acidic notes.
How to Make Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Slow Cooker: Add chicken and a bit of salt, cook on low for 6 hours.
- Stovetop: Sear chicken in olive oil, then simmer covered with water until fully cooked.
- Grill: Grill chicken until charred and cooked through, then shred.
Step 2: Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan.
- Simmer over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 3: Shred and Toss
- Shred chicken with forks or a mixer.
- Add chicken to sauce and toss to coat completely.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Toast buns.
- Pile chicken high on the bottom half.
- Top with slaw, pickles, or onions if desired.
- Cover with top bun and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer: 165°F internal temp = juicy chicken
- Let sauce cool slightly before mixing—it thickens more off heat
- Double the sauce if you like it extra saucy
- Serve with a side of fries, chips, or corn salad
- Toasting buns helps prevent sogginess
Easy Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp hot sauce or crushed red pepper
- Grilled Version: Baste grilled chicken with bourbon BBQ sauce during final minutes
- Slider Style: Use mini buns for parties or tailgates
- Coleslaw Crunch: Add apple slaw or vinegar slaw for texture
- Cheesy Melt: Top with provolone or pepper jack and broil for 1–2 minutes
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store shredded chicken in sauce up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooled chicken and sauce for up to 3 months
- Reheat: Microwave or warm in skillet with splash of broth
- Make Ahead: Cook and shred chicken, prep sauce, assemble when ready
🍽️ Make It a Meal 🍜
Pair bourbon BBQ chicken sandwiches with:
- Loaded potato salad or grilled corn on the cob
- Southern-style baked beans or coleslaw
- Bourbon lemonade or iced tea
- Peach cobbler or mini pineapple upside down cakes
A full-flavored Father’s Day menu that’s sure to impress any hungry dad.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s a tangy, sweet, and smoky sauce made with ketchup, bourbon, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices—perfect for BBQ chicken or ribs.
Yes! Just cook the chicken on low for 6 hours, shred, and mix with the sauce before serving.
Use any mid-range bourbon with smooth, caramel notes—avoid overly strong or spiced varieties.
Absolutely! They’re bold, saucy, and a great centerpiece for any backyard gathering.
Toss it with sauce immediately after shredding and reheat with a little broth or extra sauce.
You can, but homemade gives you more control over sweetness and spice.
Try crunchy coleslaw, dill pickles, crispy onions, or even melted cheese.
Make a slider bar with small buns, toppings, and extra sauce. Keep chicken warm in a slow cooker.
Yes. It reheats beautifully and can be made a day or two in advance.
Serve with corn on the cob, mac and cheese, baked beans, or potato salad.
Use smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or cook the chicken on a grill for that backyard barbecue taste.
Yes, add cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Final Thoughts
These Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are more than just sandwiches—they’re a statement. A celebration of smoky sweetness, tender meat, and all the bold flavors that make summer grilling season so great. Whether you’re toasting buns for a backyard bash or slow-cooking chicken for a family dinner, this recipe has the flavor and flexibility to become your new Father’s Day favorite.
With easy prep, make-ahead convenience, and irresistible layers of taste, these sandwiches are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to get their hands on one. Don’t forget to pair them with crisp slaw, grilled corn, and a cold drink for the full experience.
Looking for more Father’s Day mains? Don’t miss our Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs, Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Skillet, or Creamy Macaroni Salad with Bacon to round out your summer feast.
📌 Save and Share
Love these Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches? Pin it to your Father’s Day or BBQ recipe board and tag us @readyprepmeals!
📌 Pin This Recipe: Bourbon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Bold, smoky, and sweet! These bourbon BBQ chicken sandwiches are packed with flavor, easy to make, and ideal for Father’s Day, game day, or summer cookouts!
