These BBQ chicken sliders are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken smothered in sweet barbecue sauce is piled high on soft, fluffy buns. Perfect for a quick dinner or during game day!
Who can resist that delicious sauce? I love serving these sliders with some crunchy coleslaw on the side. It’s the perfect mix of flavors that everyone enjoys – even the picky eaters! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. If you want to cook your own, boiled chicken breast works great too! You can even use cooked turkey if you have leftovers.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite bottled BBQ sauce or try making your own! Honey, vinegar, and spices can make a delicious homemade blend. If you’re cutting down on sugar, look for sugar-free BBQ options.
Slider Buns: I recommend using soft slider buns for the best texture. If you can’t find them, regular sandwich rolls or mini brioche buns are tasty alternatives. Gluten-free options are also available!
Cheddar Cheese: While I love cheddar for its melting quality, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little heat. Vegan cheese works for dairy-free sliders.
How Do I Make the Best Coleslaw for My Sliders?
The coleslaw adds a nice crunch to your sliders. Mixing a simple dressing is key! Combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper for flavor. You can add a touch of sugar or honey if you like it sweeter.
- In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots with the dressing.
- Mix thoroughly and let it chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld!
Trust me, this step elevates the flavor of your sliders and adds a refreshing option alongside the BBQ chicken. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Sliders:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled chicken breast)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 8 slider buns or small sandwich rolls
- 4 slices cheddar cheese, halved
For the Coleslaw:
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- Butter for toasting the buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes for cooking, making a total of roughly 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or delightful gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a medium bowl, toss your cooked shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until every piece is well coated. This adds all the delicious flavor to your sliders!
2. Make the Coleslaw:
In another bowl, mix together the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir it all up and taste. If you think it needs more seasoning, feel free to adjust it!
3. Toast the Buns:
Carefully split the slider buns in half. If you’d like, spread a little butter on the cut sides and toast them in a skillet or under the broiler until they’re golden brown and crispy. This step adds a nice touch!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
On the bottom half of each toasted bun, place half a slice of cheddar cheese. Next, heat the BBQ chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat until it’s warmed through. When it’s hot, pile the BBQ chicken onto the cheesy buns.
5. Add Coleslaw and Finish Up:
Top off your BBQ chicken with a generous spoonful of the coleslaw. This cool and crunchy topping balances the warm, savory chicken beautifully!
6. Cover and Serve:
Cap your sliders with the top halves of the buns, and they’re ready to serve! Enjoy them warm, and watch them disappear!
These BBQ chicken sliders are a fantastic combination of flavors and textures—perfect for parties, game days, or any casual get-together. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to let it sit in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the BBQ chicken and coleslaw a day in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just warm the chicken and assemble the sliders!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover assembled sliders in an airtight container in the fridge, but for best results, it’s better to keep the chicken, cheese, and coleslaw separate from the buns to avoid sogginess. They should last for about 2-3 days.
Can I Make These Sliders Spicier?
Definitely! If you want some heat, consider adding jalapeños, spicy BBQ sauce, or even a dash of hot sauce to the shredded chicken. You can also use Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick!