Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Cherry Cola Pulled Chicken Sandwich is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will keep you coming back for more. The chicken becomes incredibly tender from slow cooking in the cola-based sauce, while the addition of barbecue flavors adds depth. With minimal effort required, this sandwich is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or craving a tasty, comforting meal, this sandwich is sure to satisfy!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (12 oz) cherry cola
1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 sandwich buns
1 cup coleslaw (optional, for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, combine the cherry cola, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is fully covered. Add the sliced onions on top.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it well with the sauce and onions. Let it cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Toast the sandwich buns lightly in a separate pan or oven for added texture.
To assemble, spoon the pulled chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. If desired, top with a scoop of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
Place the top bun on and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Spicy Cherry Cola Pulled Chicken: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for some heat.
Grilled Version: For a smoky touch, grill the chicken breasts and then shred them, mixing with the cherry cola sauce afterward.
Vegetarian Version: Use jackfruit or a plant-based chicken substitute in place of the chicken for a vegetarian version of this sandwich.
Cheese: Top the pulled chicken with a slice of melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of extra barbecue sauce or cherry cola to keep it moist. You can also reheat it in a slow cooker on low for 30-60 minutes if you have time.

FAQs

1. Can I make this sandwich without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the chicken on the stovetop. In a large pot, combine the cherry cola, barbecue sauce, and seasonings. Add the chicken breasts and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender enough to shred.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly more flavorful and juicy, and they work great for pulled chicken sandwiches. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

3. Can I use diet or sugar-free cherry cola?

Yes, you can substitute diet or sugar-free cherry cola in this recipe if you prefer. Keep in mind that it might alter the sweetness of the sauce slightly.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pulled chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before assembling your sandwiches.

5. Can I freeze leftover pulled chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover pulled chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

6. Can I use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can use a pressure cooker. Cook the chicken on high pressure for about 15 minutes, then shred and mix with the sauce. Be sure to follow the specific instructions for your pressure cooker model.

7. Can I add more veggies to the pulled chicken mixture?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or even carrots to the slow cooker for extra texture and flavor.

8. What kind of buns are best for this sandwich?

Soft hamburger buns or brioche buns are ideal for this sandwich. They’re sturdy enough to hold the juicy pulled chicken while still being soft and delicious.

9. How do I make the coleslaw for this sandwich?

You can either make your own coleslaw or buy pre-made coleslaw from the store. To make it at home, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and a simple dressing of mayo, vinegar, sugar, and salt.

10. Can I serve this pulled chicken with sides?

Yes, this sandwich pairs wonderfully with sides like potato salad, baked beans, or crispy fries. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.

Conclusion

The Cherry Cola Pulled Chicken Sandwich is a unique and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. The sweet, tangy cherry cola sauce infuses the chicken with irresistible flavor, making each bite unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or making it for a weeknight dinner, this sandwich is sure to impress and satisfy every time!

Cherry Cola Pulled Chicken Sandwich

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The Cherry Cola Pulled Chicken Sandwich is a sweet and savory treat that takes comfort food to the next level. The chicken is slow-cooked in a rich cherry cola sauce, creating tender, juicy meat that’s bursting with flavor.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 7 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Sandwich
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Calorie

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.

In a separate bowl, combine the cherry cola, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is fully covered. Add the sliced onions on top.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it well with the sauce and onions. Let it cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Toast the sandwich buns lightly in a separate pan or oven for added texture.
To assemble, spoon the pulled chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. If desired, top with a scoop of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
Place the top bun on and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes

Spicy Cherry Cola Pulled Chicken: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for some heat.
Grilled Version: For a smoky touch, grill the chicken breasts and then shred them, mixing with the cherry cola sauce afterward.
Vegetarian Version: Use jackfruit or a plant-based chicken substitute in place of the chicken for a vegetarian version of this sandwich.
Cheese: Top the pulled chicken with a slice of melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage: Store leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of extra barbecue sauce or cherry cola to keep it moist. You can also reheat it in a slow cooker on low for 30-60 minutes if you have time.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 470
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 910mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 51g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 75mg