These BBQ chicken sliders are a tasty treat that’s perfect for any gathering! Juicy chicken is coated in a smoky BBQ sauce and tucked into soft rolls.
Honestly, who can resist a mini sandwich? They’re like the cute puppies of food—impossible to say no to! I love pairing them with coleslaw for some crunch!
Making these sliders is a breeze; just cook the chicken, toss it in sauce, and assemble. They disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here as they cook quickly and stay tender. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a low-sugar BBQ sauce. You can also use hot sauce for added spice if you enjoy a kick!
Slider Buns: While traditional slider buns are great, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free buns as alternatives. Mini brioche buns add a nice sweetness!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to swap it with provolone, pepper jack for a spicy twist, or even go without cheese for a lighter version.
Coleslaw: You can use a store-bought mix or make your own. For a lighter dressing, swap mayo with Greek yogurt mixed with vinegar.
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily?
Shredding chicken can be a hassle if you don’t have the right technique. Here’s how to do it quickly:
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes to avoid burning your fingers.
- Use two forks: Hold one fork in each hand and pull apart the chicken into shreds. It should fall apart easily if cooked properly.
- If you prefer, you can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for super fast shredding – just pulse it for a few seconds!
Now enjoy assembling those sliders with your freshly shredded chicken! It’ll look and taste amazing.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 8 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 4 slices cheddar cheese, halved to fit slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (for coleslaw, optional)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for coleslaw, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and about 20-30 minutes for cooking. Totaling around 45 minutes, it’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re fully cooked and the juices run clear. Don’t rush this step; a good sear adds flavor!
2. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then, shred the chicken using two forks. It should pull apart easily if cooked right.
3. Mix with BBQ Sauce:
Place the shredded chicken in a bowl and pour in the barbecue sauce. Mix everything together until the chicken is well coated in that tasty sauce!
4. Prepare the Coleslaw:
If you’re making coleslaw, take the coleslaw mix and toss it with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar in a separate bowl. This is optional, but it adds great creaminess and tang!
5. Toast the Slider Buns:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half. Place the halved cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each bun, then toast them in the oven for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese melts slightly. Yum!
6. Assemble the Sliders:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Heap a generous amount of BBQ chicken on top of the cheese-topped buns. Then add a spoonful of your coleslaw mixture on top of the chicken and finally place the tops of the buns on each slider.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your BBQ chicken sliders immediately while they’re warm and cheesy. Enjoy every bite of this delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you’re looking for a healthier or spicier alternative, you can use a homemade sauce made from ketchup mixed with apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices. Alternatively, a hot sauce or teriyaki sauce could also work for a unique flavor twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave them for a quick option.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pulled chicken and coleslaw ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just assemble the sliders right before serving to keep the buns fresh and crispy!