Pulled Chicken from Mission BBQ features tender, slow-smoked chicken shredded and coated in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce, served hot with a juicy, flavorful bite and a hint of savory spices.
Equipments
- Smoker or barbecue pit
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Shredding claws or forks
- Saucepan
- Tongs
- Aluminum foil
- Baking tray (optional)
- Serving spoon
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 lbs (1.4 kg) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 cups barbecue sauce (preferably smoky or tangy)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Choosing boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs is essential for achieving tender pulled chicken with an even texture. Using smoked paprika and chili powder enhances the smoky and tangy flavor profile that defines Mission BBQ's pulled chicken. Opt for a barbecue sauce with a robust, smoky or tangy taste to match the authentic taste experience. Incorporating apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce balances the sweetness and adds depth to the sauce. Your Pulled Chicken from Mission BBQ copycat menu will capture the savory spices and juicy, flavorful bite that fans expect.
Instructions
- Preheat smoker or barbecue pit to 250°F (120°C).
- Pat chicken dry on cutting board.
- Rub chicken with olive oil.
- In mixing bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cumin.
- Season chicken evenly with spice mixture.
- Place chicken on smoker grate.
- Smoke chicken for 2–3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using meat thermometer.
- In saucepan, combine barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, chicken broth, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Heat sauce over medium heat, stirring until blended.
- Remove smoked chicken and tent with aluminum foil; let rest 10 minutes.
- Shred chicken using shredding claws or forks.
- Place shredded chicken in mixing bowl.
- Pour barbecue sauce over shredded chicken.
- Toss to coat evenly.
- (Optional) Transfer coated chicken to baking tray, cover with foil, and keep warm until serving.
- Serve hot using serving spoon.
Substitution
Pulled Chicken from Mission BBQ copycat menu delivers tender, slow-smoked chicken shredded and coated in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce rich with savory spices. If you don't have access to a smoker, you can slow-cook the chicken breasts or thighs in a slow cooker or oven at low temperatures for several hours to achieve similar tenderness. When shredding, use forks or shredding claws to pull the chicken apart evenly, ensuring the barbecue sauce coats every bite thoroughly. Substituting chicken thighs for breasts can enhance moisture and flavor, making your pulled chicken juicier. Your barbecue sauce can also be adjusted in sweetness or tanginess with extra brown sugar or apple cider vinegar based on personal preference.
Tips
Make sure your smoker or barbecue pit maintains a steady temperature of 250degF (120degC) throughout the cooking process to ensure the chicken smokes evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which must reach 165degF (74degC) to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat. Patting the chicken dry before applying the olive oil and spice rub helps the seasoning adhere better and enhances the flavor. When shredding the chicken, toss it immediately with the warm barbecue sauce to keep it moist and flavorful for your meal.
Nutritions
Pulled Chicken from Mission BBQ provides a rich source of lean protein from boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety. The dish contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds from spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder, which enhance overall nutrient absorption. Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats that promote heart health, while the barbecue sauce adds flavor with moderate sugar and sodium content, making portion control important for your dietary needs. Your meal delivers a balanced combination of macronutrients alongside flavorful seasoning for a satisfying and nutritious experience.
Storage
Store your pulled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days in the fridge, or can be frozen in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat to preserve moisture and flavor without drying out the meat.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute chicken thighs with bone-in pieces to add extra flavor and moisture during smoking. You can also experiment by adding a splash of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce if you lack a smoker, capturing that smoky essence. Try slow-cooking the chicken in a covered Dutch oven at 275degF (135degC) for 2-2.5 hours as an alternative to smoking. Your pulled chicken will still stay tender and juicy, maintaining the balance between smoky and tangy notes.
Allergies
Pulled Chicken from Mission BBQ contains ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, which may include anchovies and could cause allergic reactions for people with fish allergies. The barbecue sauce can also contain common allergens like soy or gluten depending on the brand used, so it's important to check labels carefully. Your sensitivity to spices like garlic and onion powders should be considered, as they may trigger allergies or intolerances in some individuals.
Why this recipe?
Mission BBQ's Pulled Chicken menu stands out for its tender, smoky flavor crafted from slow-smoked chicken breasts seasoned with a proprietary blend of spices. Fans appreciate the balance of juicy, juicy meat with a perfect hint of tangy barbecue sauce that enhances the overall taste experience. Making a copycat recipe lets you recreate that authentic backyard barbecue flavor at home, tailored to your desired spice level. Your homemade version ensures fresh ingredients and customizable sauces, making it a rewarding culinary project.