BBQ Chicken Sliders

These BBQ Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of tender, shredded chicken in smoky barbecue sauce, topped with crispy red onions and nestled in soft slider buns. Whether served hot with melted cheddar cheese or cold with a refreshing coleslaw topping, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit for any occasion. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, they’re the ideal snack or meal for a crowd!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These BBQ Chicken Sliders are everything you love about barbecue chicken, but in a mini, easy-to-eat form. The shredded chicken is coated in smoky barbecue sauce, while the crispy red onions provide a perfect crunch. For a warm, melty version, cheddar cheese adds richness, and for a fresh twist, a creamy coleslaw topping makes them extra refreshing. Whether you’re serving them at a party, family dinner, or as a game-day snack, these sliders will be devoured in no time!

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded (about 3 to 3½ cups)

• 1¼ cups bottled barbecue sauce

For the Sliders:

• 15 ounces slider-sized buns (12 buns)

• ⅓ cup red onions, very thinly sliced

Optional Toppings for Hot Sliders:

• 6 sandwich slices mild cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Optional Toppings for Cold Sliders:

• 2 cups shredded coleslaw blend (cabbage, carrots, and red cabbage)

• ½ cup coleslaw dressing

• 24 dill pickle sandwich slices, patted dry

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce. Stir to evenly coat the chicken with the sauce, keeping some larger pieces of chicken for texture.

2. Assemble the Sliders:

Place the bottom half of the 12 slider buns into a 9×13 baking dish.
Spread the BBQ chicken evenly over the bottom buns in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the thinly sliced red onions over the chicken.

Hot Sliders:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F.

• Place slices of mild cheddar cheese over the chicken and onion mixture.

• Place the top buns onto the sliders, then brush the tops with the melted butter.

• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the buns are lightly toasted.

• Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if desired) before slicing into individual servings.

Cold Sliders:

• In a separate mixing bowl, stir the shredded coleslaw blend with the coleslaw dressing until the vegetables are evenly coated.

• To assemble the cold sliders, add a scoop of the coleslaw mixture to each BBQ chicken slider.

• Top with a few slices of the thinly sliced red onions and two dill pickle slices.

• Place the top buns on each slider and serve.

3. Serve:

Serve the hot sliders immediately or refrigerate the cold sliders until ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 12 sliders

• Calories: 350 kcal per slider

Variations

• Make it spicier: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the BBQ chicken mixture for an extra kick.

• Make it healthier: Use whole wheat slider buns and leaner chicken breast, or swap the coleslaw for a lighter version using Greek yogurt.

• Add more veggies: Try adding some sautéed bell peppers or avocado to your sliders for added flavor and texture.

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free slider buns to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Cold sliders should be kept in the refrigerator.

• Reheating: To reheat hot sliders, cover them with foil and bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of meat?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with shredded beef for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I make these sliders in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the BBQ chicken and coleslaw ahead of time, then assemble and bake or serve cold when ready.

3. Can I use homemade barbecue sauce?

Definitely! If you prefer homemade barbecue sauce, feel free to use your own favorite recipe for a more personalized touch.

4. Can I freeze these sliders?

You can freeze the assembled sliders (before baking) for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.

5. How do I make these sliders less messy?

To keep the sliders from being too messy, you can use slider buns that are slightly smaller or toast them lightly before assembling.

6. Can I skip the cheese for the hot sliders?

Yes, you can skip the cheese if you prefer a lighter version. The sliders will still taste delicious with just the BBQ chicken and onion mixture.

7. How can I add more flavor to the coleslaw?

For extra flavor, you can mix in some apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, or a pinch of sugar to the coleslaw dressing.

8. Can I serve these sliders without the onions?

Yes, you can omit the onions if you’re not a fan of raw onions. You can also substitute with caramelized onions for a sweeter, more savory flavor.

9. How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, be sure to drain the BBQ chicken mixture well and avoid overloading the buns with sauce.

10. Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like pulled jackfruit or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

These BBQ Chicken Sliders are an irresistible combination of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether you go for the hot, melty version with cheddar cheese or the cool, refreshing version with coleslaw, these sliders are sure to be a crowd favorite. Easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for a quick dinner or party snack that everyone will enjoy!

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