Introducing the ultimate crowd-pleaser – Easy Shredded Chicken BBQ Sliders! This recipe mixes sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in a slider. It’s quick to make, ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy nights or when you have guests over.
These sliders have juicy chicken in tangy barbecue sauce. They’re served on soft King’s Hawaiian Rolls with Colby Jack cheese. Garlic-herb butter adds a special touch. They’re great for parties, feeding a big family, or a quick dinner.
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Why These BBQ Chicken Sliders Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Pulled chicken sandwiches, gameday snacks, and tailgating food – these BBQ chicken sliders are perfect for any event. They’re great for game-day parties, family gatherings, or quick weeknight dinners. Everyone will love them.
This recipe is simple yet flavorful. The chicken is tender and juicy, with a smoky and tangy BBQ taste. The slider buns make them easy to hold, perfect for any event.
Wondering how to make these BBQ chicken sliders work for your next event? Let’s explore why they are the perfect choice:
- Ease of Preparation: They’re quick to make with just a few ingredients. This makes them perfect for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The chicken and buns are loved by all, from kids to adults.
- Scalability: You can make as many or as few as you need. They’re great for small or big groups.
- Versatility: They’re perfect for many events, from barbecues to office potlucks. Their customizable toppings make them versatile for any occasion.
Next time you need a delicious dish for your guests, try these BBQ chicken sliders. They’re easy to make and full of flavor. They’re sure to be a hit at any event.
Essential Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Sliders
To make the best barbecue chicken sliders, choose your ingredients carefully. Start with shredded chicken, cooked to your liking. Use a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, and ranch dressing mix for flavor.
Chicken and Seasonings
The chicken is the base of these sliders. You’ll need about 4 cups of cooked, shredded chicken for 12 buns. Season it with:
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne pepper (for a subtle kick)
- Ranch dressing seasoning
Sauces and Condiments
The right sauce is key. Choose a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce like Stubb’s or Sweet Baby Ray’s. Add a bit of Worcestershire sauce and mayonnaise for extra taste. Don’t forget a dollop of chili garlic sauce for more flavor.
Bread and Cheese Options
Use King’s Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls for the best buns. Any small slider or dinner roll will do, though. Cheddar, mozzarella, Colby Jack, and smoked gouda are great cheese choices.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make tasty barbecue chicken sliders. They’re perfect for any event.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make tasty shredded chicken sandwiches or party appetizers, you need some basic kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need to make sure your sliders are perfect every time.
- A crockpot or skillet for cooking and shredding the chicken.
- A mixing bowl for combining the BBQ sauce ingredients.
- A 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking the sliders.
- Parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy cleanup.
- Non-stick cooking spray to prevent the sliders from sticking.
- Forks for shredding the cooked chicken.
- A brush for applying the garlic butter topping.
- An oven to bake the assembled sliders.
With these tools, you’re ready to make delicious shredded chicken sandwiches and party appetizers that everyone will enjoy.
Preparing the Shredded Chicken
Starting with shredded chicken is key for delicious bbq chicken bites or sliders. There are a few ways to get the perfect texture for your sliders.
Crockpot Method
The crockpot is great for easy, hands-off cooking. Season chicken breasts with your favorite spices and add plenty of bbq sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until it’s tender.
After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken in the crockpot. Then, mix in more bbq sauce if you like.
Stovetop Alternative
For a quicker option, try the stovetop method. Season chicken tenders or breasts, then pan-fry until cooked and slightly charred. Use two forks or a hand mixer to shred the chicken.
Then, stir in your favorite amount of bbq sauce.
Time-Saving Tips
- For a quick start, use pre-cooked shredded chicken like rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken. Just toss it with bbq sauce and you’re set!
- Make a big batch of shredded chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can quickly make bbq chicken bites or sliders whenever you want.
Regardless of the method, the secret to juicy, flavorful chicken is to be gentle. Don’t overwork the meat. Use forks or a mixer to shred it gently and keep it tender.
Shredded Chicken BBQ Sliders Recipe
Get ready to enjoy a tasty shredded chicken bbq sliders recipe perfect for any event! It combines tender chicken with a delicious barbecue sauce, all on soft King’s Hawaiian Rolls. Every bite is a mix of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
The secret to these shredded chicken bbq sliders is the simple yet powerful mix of ingredients. Start by mixing the chicken with barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, and chili garlic sauce for extra flavor. Then, layer the chicken between the rolls, add cheese, and top with crispy bacon if you like.
To make it even better, brush the buns with garlic butter before baking. This step gives the sliders a golden, garlic-flavored crust. Bake at 350°F for 7-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Enjoy these shredded chicken bbq sliders warm, with your favorite sides like coleslaw or fries. The mix of tender chicken, tangy sauce, and soft buns will impress everyone at your next event or family dinner.
“These bbq chicken sliders are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. They’re a real crowd-pleaser and so easy to make!”
| Nutrition Facts | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 491kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 101mg |
| Sodium | 1059mg |
Make your next gathering or family dinner special with this shredded chicken bbq sliders recipe. The mix of tender chicken, tangy sauce, and soft buns will impress everyone. Enjoy the easy cooking process and create a memorable slider experience for your loved ones.
Creating the Perfect BBQ Sauce Mixture
When making barbecue chicken sliders or pulled chicken sandwiches, the BBQ sauce is key. It coats the chicken well and adds flavor and creaminess.
To make the perfect BBQ sauce, start with your favorite BBQ sauce. Add Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, and chili garlic sauce. The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory taste, mayonnaise makes it creamy, and chili garlic sauce adds heat.
Change the amounts of these ingredients to your liking. For more heat, add more chili garlic sauce. For less heat, use less. The goal is a sauce that’s not too thin.
After mixing, taste and adjust the seasonings. The best BBQ sauce is sweet, savory, and slightly spicy. It should match the chicken’s flavor perfectly.
“The secret to perfectly saucy barbecue chicken sliders or pulled chicken sandwiches lies in the balance of the BBQ sauce mixture.”
Mastering the BBQ sauce mixture will make your barbecue chicken sliders or pulled chicken sandwiches taste amazing. Try different amounts and see what you like best.
Assembly Tips for Perfect Sliders
Making the ultimate gameday snacks or tailgating food with shredded chicken BBQ sliders needs some skill. Begin by placing the bottom bun in your baking dish. Next, add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by the BBQ chicken mix. Finish with another layer of cheese for the best melt.
Layering Technique
When building the sliders, pay attention to the layering order. This method ensures each bite is full of great flavors and textures. Start with the bun, then cheese, chicken, and more cheese. This balance will make everyone want more.
Cheese Selection Guide
For the best cheese mix, use shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Cheddar adds a strong, savory taste. Mozzarella melts well, making the top gooey and irresistible.
Adding Extra Toppings
To make your sliders even better, add some extra toppings. Crispy bacon strips add a nice crunch and smoky flavor. Thinly sliced red onions or fresh cilantro bring a refreshing touch. Press down on the sliders gently before adding the top buns to keep them together.
With these tips, you’re on your way to making perfect gameday snacks or tailgating food. The secret is in the layering, cheese choice, and toppings. Enjoy your tasty shredded chicken BBQ sliders!
Garlic Butter Topping Secret
Take your BBQ chicken sliders to the next level with a flavorful garlic butter topping. This simple yet impactful step adds an extra layer of richness and crispness to the buns. It elevates your party appetizers to new heights.
Start by combining softened butter with garlic powder (or minced fresh garlic) and freshly chopped parsley. For an even more robust flavor, stir in a tablespoon of ranch seasoning as well. Generously brush this garlic butter mixture over the tops of your assembled bbq chicken bites before baking.
The garlic butter will melt into the buns, creating a golden-brown, slightly crispy crust. It’s absolutely irresistible. Not only does it look mouthwatering, but the garlic and butter flavors perfectly complement the tangy bbq chicken filling.
- Combine 1/3 cup melted salted butter, 1/4 teaspoon beef broth base (Better Than Bouillon), and 3 sprigs of thyme (stems removed).
- Stir in 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Generously brush the garlic butter topping over the tops of the assembled bbq chicken sliders.
- Bake the sliders according to the recipe instructions until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
This simple garlic butter trick takes your bbq chicken bites from delicious to downright irresistible. Serve these party-ready sliders alongside coleslaw, onion rings, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
“The garlic butter topping is the secret weapon that takes these BBQ chicken sliders to the next level. It’s a game-changer for your party appetizers!”
Baking Instructions and Times
Getting your easy chicken sliders just right is easy. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your shredded chicken sandwiches are all set.
Put the BBQ chicken sliders in a baking dish. Cover it with foil and bake for 15 minutes. This step lets the flavors mix and the cheese melt a bit.
After 15 minutes, take off the foil. Brush the tops with garlic butter. This adds a golden crust and more flavor. Bake for another 10 minutes without the foil.
Watch the shredded chicken sandwiches closely in the last 10 minutes. They should be done in about 25 minutes. You’ll get cheese that’s perfectly melted and a kitchen full of great smells.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Servings | 12 |
| Calories per Serving | 150 |
| Total Fat per Serving | 6g |
| Saturated Fat per Serving | 2g |
| Protein per Serving | 15g |
| Refrigerator Storage | Up to 3 days |
| Reheating Method | Microwave, toaster oven, or regular oven |
| Suggested Cooking Time | 15-20 minutes at 350°F |
| Shredded Chicken Amount | 2 to 2 ½ cups |
| Cheese Slices | 6 slices of Cooper® Sharp Yellow Pasteurized Process American Cheese or white |
| Crockpot Cooking Time | 4-6 hours |
| Baking Time | Approximately 10 minutes at 350°F |
Follow these steps for delicious easy chicken sliders. You’ll get tender shredded chicken sandwiches, melted cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce in every bite.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Preparing your bbq chicken sliders ahead of time can save you a lot of effort. You can make the shredded chicken up to 2 days before and keep it in the fridge. Then, just add the chicken, sauces, and toppings to the buns and bake for a hot meal.
For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled pulled chicken sandwiches for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic or foil and thaw in the fridge overnight. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Or, microwave individual sliders for 1-2 minutes until hot.
| Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Cooked Sliders) | 5-7 days |
| Freezer (Assembled, Unbaked Sliders) | 3 months |
With these easy tips, you can enjoy bbq chicken sliders anytime without the stress. Prepare them in advance and have a delicious meal ready whenever you need it.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
When you serve your shredded chicken BBQ sliders, you have many side dish options. These gameday snacks and tailgating food ideas are perfect for any event. They add a delicious touch to your meal.
Recommended Sides
For a classic choice, try crispy tater tots, crunchy potato chips, or golden french fries. If you want something more filling, a creamy pasta salad or tangy coleslaw works well. For a lighter option, a green salad or roasted veggies are great.
| Side Dish | Prep Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Parmesan Tater Tots | 20 minutes | 4-6 |
| Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad | 30 minutes | 6-8 |
| Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower | 25 minutes | 4 |
Plating Presentation
Presenting your shredded chicken BBQ sliders can make them stand out. Place them on a large platter or individual plates. Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for color. For a cozy feel, serve them from the baking dish.
“The key to a great slider is all in the presentation. With the right sides and a visually appealing layout, your shredded chicken BBQ sliders will be the star of the show.”
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
When it comes to barbecue chicken sliders and shredded chicken bbq sliders recipe, the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some tasty variations and substitutions to try:
- Sauce Swaps: Switch up the barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Try a honey-based, spicy, or even a vinegar-forward sauce for a unique twist.
- Protein Alternatives: Instead of chicken, use shredded pulled pork or jackfruit for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese Combinations: While cheddar is a classic, experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick of spice.
- Bun Varieties: Swap the Hawaiian rolls for brioche or pretzel buns for a different texture and flavor.
- Tasty Toppings: Add sliced pickles or jalapeños for a burst of tang or heat.
- Sauce Lightening: For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce mixture.
The beauty of these shredded chicken bbq sliders is that they are highly customizable. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on the recipe and find your family’s new favorite variation.
“The best part about these sliders is that you can make them your own. Get creative with the flavors and have fun with it!”
Time-Saving Tips and Tricks
To make these easy chicken sliders quicker, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or store-bought shredded chicken. This skips the cooking step. Also, prepare the quick dinner BBQ chicken mixture ahead of time. Refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the sliders.
Using pre-shredded cheese saves a lot of prep time. To speed up assembly, build the sliders in a baking dish the night before. Then, just refrigerate them until baking time. When ready, pop them in the oven for a quick serve.
For a quicker bake, try cooking at 400°F. Just watch them closely to avoid burning. With these tips, you’ll have tasty easy chicken sliders ready fast.
FAQ
What are BBQ Chicken Sliders?
BBQ Chicken Sliders are tasty and quick to make. They need just 15 minutes of work. You’ll use King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, shredded BBQ chicken, cheese, and garlic butter.
They’re great for parties, big families, and game days. They mix sweet, spicy, smoky, salty, and cheesy flavors. You can make them in 30 minutes.
Why are these BBQ Chicken Sliders perfect for any occasion?
BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for many events. They’re easy to make and taste amazing. They’re ideal for parties or big families.
The recipe can be made in large quantities. They’re great for game day snacks or quick dinners. They combine BBQ chicken’s comfort with slider buns’ convenience.
What are the key ingredients for BBQ Chicken Sliders?
You’ll need chicken, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, and chili garlic sauce. For seasoning, use salt, pepper, garlic powder, cayenne, and ranch seasoning.
King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are best, but any slider buns work. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, Colby Jack, or smoked gouda cheese.
What kitchen equipment is needed to make BBQ Chicken Sliders?
You’ll need a crockpot or skillet for chicken, a bowl for the BBQ sauce mix, and a baking dish. Use parchment paper and non-stick spray.
Forks for shredding chicken, a brush for garlic butter, and an oven are also needed.
How do you prepare the shredded chicken for the BBQ Chicken Sliders?
For the crockpot, cook chicken with BBQ sauce on low for 4-6 hours. For stovetop, pan-fry chicken until cooked and slightly charred.
For a quick option, use pre-cooked shredded chicken. Shred it with forks or a mixer, then mix with more BBQ sauce if needed.
How do you make the BBQ Chicken Slider recipe?
Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mayo, and chili garlic sauce. Use King’s Hawaiian Rolls, layering cheese, BBQ chicken, and more cheese.
Top with bacon if you like. Brush with garlic butter before baking at 350°F for 7-10 minutes until cheese melts.
How do you create the perfect BBQ sauce mixture for the sliders?
Mix BBQ sauce with Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, and chili garlic sauce. Adjust to taste. For spicier, add more chili garlic sauce.
The sauce should coat the chicken well but not be too runny. Taste and adjust before assembling the sliders.
What are the best assembly tips for perfect BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Start with a bottom bun, add cheese, BBQ chicken, and more cheese. Use cheddar and mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
Add bacon for extra crunch and flavor. Consider red onions or cilantro for brightness. Press down on the sliders before adding the top buns for a compact shape.
What is the secret to the garlic butter topping?
Mix softened butter with garlic powder or minced garlic and parsley. Add ranch seasoning for extra flavor. Brush this garlic butter over the sliders before baking.
This step adds flavor and helps get a golden, crispy top on the sliders.
How long do you bake the BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Preheat oven to 350°F. Place assembled sliders in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Remove foil, brush with garlic butter, and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and cheese is melted. Total baking time is about 25 minutes.
Can you make the BBQ Chicken Sliders in advance?
Prepare the BBQ chicken mixture up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. Assemble sliders just before baking for best results.
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving. Freeze assembled but unbaked sliders for up to 3 months, thawing before baking.
What are some serving suggestions and side dish options for BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Serve sliders with sides like tater tots, chips, fries, pasta salad, or roasted vegetables. For a healthier option, pair with a green salad or coleslaw.
When plating, arrange sliders on a large platter or individual plates. Garnish with extra cilantro or parsley for color. Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic look.
Can you suggest any recipe variations or substitutions for the BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Try different BBQ sauces for varied flavors. Substitute chicken with pulled pork or jackfruit for a vegetarian option. Use different cheese combinations like pepper jack for spice.
Use brioche or pretzel buns instead of Hawaiian rolls for a twist. Add sliced pickles or jalapenos for extra tang or heat. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
What are some time-saving tips for making BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken to save time. Prepare BBQ chicken mixture in advance and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
Use pre-shredded cheese to cut down on prep time. Assemble sliders in the baking dish the night before and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. For quicker cooking, use a higher oven temperature (400°F) and reduce baking time, watching closely to prevent burning.
