These BBQ chicken sliders are perfect for any gathering! Tender chicken smothered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce makes each bite a treat. Plus, they’re super easy to put together!
I love serving these at parties. Everyone enjoys making their own sliders, and there’s always room for seconds! Who can resist that delicious chicken flavor? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s quick and flavorful. You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using shredded jackfruit or a plant-based chicken substitute.
Barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite brand! You can use a sweet, tangy, or even spicy sauce. If you want a healthier version, try a homemade sauce using ketchup, vinegar, and honey. Adjust to suit your taste!
Slider buns: Hawaiian-style buns are sweet and fluffy, perfect for these sliders. If you can’t find them, any soft dinner rolls or even whole-wheat slider buns work as a healthier choice.
Coleslaw mix: You can find pre-packaged coleslaw mix at most grocery stores. If you’re short on time, simply use shredded cabbage and carrots. Or make it colorful with purple cabbage and green onions!
How Do I Make the Best Coleslaw for My Sliders?
Making coleslaw is simple and adds great crunch to your sliders! Here’s how to get it just right:
- In a bowl, mix 1 cup of coleslaw mix with 2 tbsp of mayonnaise and 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld. You can toss in some chopped apples or cranberries for extra sweetness if you like!
This creamy coleslaw is a perfect balance to the tangy BBQ chicken and brings freshness to each bite.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 8 slider buns (soft and slightly sweet Hawaiian-style buns recommended)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Coleslaw:
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrot)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Extras:
- Optional: pickles or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 5-7 minutes to warm in the oven. In no time, you’ll have tasty sliders ready for your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce. Mix it well until the chicken is thoroughly coated in the sauce. Set this delicious mixture aside for a moment.
2. Make the Coleslaw:
In a small bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well mixed, and set it aside. This will add a crunchy, creamy touch to your sliders!
3. Preheat the Oven:
While you’re mixing everything, preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This will help warm the sliders perfectly.
4. Slice the Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Be sure not to cut all the way through; you want them to stay connected at the back.
5. Assemble the Sliders:
On the bottom halves of the buns, spoon a generous amount of the barbecue chicken mixture. Spread it out nicely to cover the bun. Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken. Allow the cheese to melt slightly from the warmth of the chicken!
6. Add the Coleslaw:
Top the cheese layer with a spoonful of coleslaw. This addition not only gives a fresh crunch but complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
7. Cover and Warm:
Place the top halves of the buns onto the loaded bottom halves. Then, arrange the assembled sliders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once warm, take them out of the oven and serve immediately! Feel free to add pickles or sliced jalapeños for that extra kick if you like.
These sliders combine tender, saucy chicken with creamy coleslaw and melty cheddar inside soft buns, making for a delightful handheld meal.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before shredding. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. This helps keep the buns from getting soggy!
Can I Make the Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. It might get a bit watery, so give it a quick stir before adding it to your sliders.
What Can I Use Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using honey mustard, teriyaki sauce, or a homemade sauce made from ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess according to your taste preferences!