These BBQ chicken sliders are a yummy treat! Packed with tender chicken and sweet barbecue sauce, they’re perfect for any gathering or snack time.
I love how easy they are to make—just mix the chicken with sauce, pile it on a bun, and enjoy! It’s like a party in every bite! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my favorite choice for its ease and flavor. If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, feel free to use that instead. You can also swap in canned chicken, but the texture will be different.
Barbecue Sauce: The sauce is crucial for flavor. You can use your favorite brand, but making homemade BBQ sauce can take it to the next level. If you like a spicy kick, look for one with added heat or mix in some hot sauce.
Slider Buns: While I recommend soft slider buns, you could also use mini brioche buns or even lettuce wraps if you’re looking for a low-carb option. Just make sure they can hold the filling without falling apart!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar provides great flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a cheese blend would work wonderfully. Just use what you love!
Coleslaw Mix: If you can’t find pre-packaged coleslaw mix, simply shred some cabbage and carrots. For a twist, you can add diced apples or nuts to the slaw.
How Do I Make the Perfect Coleslaw for My Sliders?
Coleslaw adds crunch and balances the BBQ chicken’s richness. Here’s how to make it easy:
- Start by mixing 1 cup of coleslaw mix with 1/4 cup mayonnaise.
- Stir in 1 tsp apple cider vinegar to add a tangy flavor.
- Add 1 tsp sugar; it balances the flavors nicely!
- Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend, making it even tastier!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Sliders?
Assembling the sliders is simple, but here are some tips to get them just right:
- Stack the BBQ chicken generously on the bottom buns. Don’t be shy!
- Sprinkle cheese on top while the chicken is hot so it can melt a little.
- A little heat brings it all together. Warm the sliders in the oven to get a nice, melty bite.
These little sliders are not just easy; they are sure to impress your family and friends!
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Coleslaw:
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 5-7 minutes if you choose to warm the sliders. Altogether, you’re looking at about 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, take the shredded cooked chicken and mix it with the barbecue sauce. Stir until the chicken is well coated and every piece is bursting with flavor!
2. Make the Coleslaw:
In a separate bowl, mix the coleslaw mix with the mayo, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Combine everything well. Taste it, and make any adjustments to the seasoning if needed—it’s all about what you like!
3. Assemble the Sliders:
Take your slider buns and slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves on a serving platter. Next, generously pile each bottom half with the barbecue chicken mixture. Don’t be shy with the chicken—it’s the star of the show!
4. Add Cheese and Coleslaw:
Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken on each slider. Then, add a scoop of your prepared coleslaw on top of the cheese. This adds a delicious crunch and a burst of freshness!
5. Complete the Sliders:
Place the top halves of the buns on each slider. If you want to take it to the next level, you can warm the assembled sliders in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This will melt the cheese and make the buns slightly toasty!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Take them out of the oven (if you warmed them) and serve immediately. These BBQ chicken sliders are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Dive in and savor every delicious bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to fully thaw it before shredding. The safest way is to thaw it overnight in the fridge, or for a quicker method, submerge it in cold water in a sealed bag until thawed.
Can I Make Sliders in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the BBQ chicken and coleslaw a day ahead. Store each in airtight containers in the fridge and assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns from getting soggy.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, unwrap the sliders and place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Coleslaw Mix?
If you don’t have coleslaw mix on hand, you can easily substitute it with shredded cabbage and grated carrots. Feel free to add ingredients like diced apples or crushed nuts for extra flavor and crunch!
