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Pulled chicken is a deliciously versatile way to transform simple cuts of chicken into juicy, flavorful dishes.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just seeking an easy weeknight meal, these recipes can help you pull together a winner with minimal fuss.
Below, you’ll find 17 ideas for creating pulled chicken that suits every craving—from sweet and tangy to rich and spicy.
1. White Chili Pulled Chicken
Slow-cook chicken in a light broth with white beans, green chilies, cumin, and onions. Shred the meat and serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh jalapeños for extra zing.
Get the White Chili Pulled Chicken recipe.
2. Classic BBQ Pulled Chicken
Slow-cook chicken breasts or thighs in your favorite barbecue sauce, onion, and a bit of chicken stock. Shred the meat and serve on buns with coleslaw for a timeless, crowd-pleasing meal.
Get the Classic BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe.
3. Buffalo-Style Pulled Chicken
Combine hot sauce, butter, and a dash of vinegar in your slow cooker or Instant Pot. Pile the shredded, spicy chicken on slider buns and cool things down with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Get the Buffalo-Style Pulled Chicken recipe.
4. Honey-Mustard Pulled Chicken
Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce. Let the chicken cook low and slow until the sauce thickens into a sweet-tangy glaze that clings to each bite.
Get the Honey-Mustard Pulled Chicken recipe.
5. Taco Pulled Chicken
Season chicken with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a bit of tomato sauce. Shred and tuck it into tortillas with fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream for zesty, Mexican-inspired tacos.
Get the Taco Pulled Chicken recipe.
6. Pineapple Teriyaki Pulled Chicken
Marinate chicken in a mix of teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger. Shred when tender, and serve over rice or in lettuce wraps for a tangy, tropical twist.
Get the Pineapple Teriyaki Pulled Chicken recipe.
7. Smoky Chipotle Pulled Chicken
Blend chipotle peppers in adobo with onions, garlic, and broth. Slow-cook the chicken until it soaks up the smoky heat, then shred and serve in tacos or over rice.
Get the Smoky Chipotle Pulled Chicken recipe.
8. Sweet Chili Pulled Chicken
Combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and a squeeze of lime. Cook until the chicken is fork-tender, then shred and top with chopped green onions or cilantro.
Get the Sweet Chili Pulled Chicken recipe.
9. Maple-Bourbon Pulled Chicken
Create a sauce with maple syrup, bourbon (or apple juice if you’d rather skip alcohol), and a bit of brown sugar. The flavors meld into a sweet, slightly smoky glaze perfect for sandwiches.
Get the Maple-Bourbon Pulled Chicken recipe.
10. Thai Peanut Pulled Chicken
Mix peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a hint of chili for a velvety sauce. Let the chicken simmer before shredding, and garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh basil.
Get the Thai Peanut Pulled Chicken recipe.
11. Italian Tomato-Basil Pulled Chicken
Cook chicken in crushed tomatoes, onions, garlic, and basil. The result is a saucy, Italian-inspired dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Get the Italian Tomato-Basil Pulled Chicken recipe.
12. Cajun-Spiced Pulled Chicken
Rub chicken with a blend of paprika, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. Slow-cook in a little stock or diced tomatoes, then shred and use for po’ boy sandwiches or atop cheesy grits.
Get the Cajun-Spiced Pulled Chicken recipe.
13. Coconut Curry Pulled Chicken
Simmer chicken in coconut milk, curry paste, and aromatic spices (like ginger and garlic). Shred and serve over jasmine rice or with warm naan for a cozy, fragrant meal.
Get the Coconut Curry Pulled Chicken recipe.
14. Mediterranean Pulled Chicken
Cook chicken with diced tomatoes, olives, garlic, and a sprinkle of oregano. Shred and serve with pita bread, feta, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
Get the Mediterranean Pulled Chicken recipe.
15. Beer-Braised Pulled Chicken
Place chicken in a slow cooker with your favorite beer, onions, and a bit of barbecue rub. Let the tangy malt flavors infuse the meat, then shred and spoon onto toasted buns.
Get the Beer-Braised Pulled Chicken recipe.
16. Apple Cider Pulled Chicken
Combine apple cider, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of brown sugar. The sweetness and acidity come together to create a comforting fall-inspired flavor.
Get the Apple Cider Pulled Chicken recipe.
17. Mole-Style Pulled Chicken
Use a mole sauce—rich with chilies, chocolate, and spices—to braise chicken until it’s tender. Shred and stuff into tortillas, topping with fresh cilantro and cotija cheese.
