BBQ Chicken Sliders

These BBQ chicken sliders have become my go-to recipe whenever I need to feed a crowd quickly without sacrificing flavor. The combination of tender shredded chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce, topped with melty cheddar and crunchy coleslaw creates perfect handheld bites that disappear within minutes at any gathering.

I first made these sliders for a last-minute Super Bowl party when I was running behind on preparations. They were such a hit that they've become requested at virtually every gathering I host, regardless of the occasion.

Ingredients

• Slider buns or dinner rolls: These create the perfect handheld base. Look for packages that are still connected for easier preparation
• Rotisserie chicken: Using store bought rotisserie chicken saves tremendous time while still delivering great flavor
• BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite variety whether sweet, spicy, smoky or tangy to create your perfect flavor profile
• Red onion: Adds a sharp bite and beautiful color contrast. Select firm onions with tight outer skin
• Cheddar cheese: Opt for medium or sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Freshly grated melts more evenly than pre shredded
• Butter: The secret to those perfectly toasted aromatic bun tops
• Garlic: A single clove transforms ordinary buns into deeply savory garlic bread sliders
• Parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes
• Premixed coleslaw: The crunch factor that balances the tender chicken perfectly
• Ranch dressing: Creates a creamy element that brings everything together. Choose thick varieties for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare your workspace:

Heat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment or foil. This preparation step ensures everything moves smoothly once you start assembly and makes cleanup virtually effortless.

Prepare the buns:

Carefully slice all slider buns horizontally, keeping them connected if possible. Arrange the bottoms and tops separately on your prepared baking sheets, creating a foundation for building your sliders.

Create the BBQ chicken filling:

In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the shredded rotisserie chicken with BBQ sauce, ensuring every piece of chicken is evenly coated in that delicious sauce. Spread this mixture evenly across all bottom buns, creating your first flavor layer.

Add flavor boosters:

Distribute the thinly sliced red onions across the BBQ chicken layer, followed by arranging cheddar cheese slices to cover everything. These ingredients will meld together during baking to create a gooey, flavorful center.

Prepare garlic butter:

Melt butter in a microwave safe bowl until just liquified, then immediately stir in minced garlic and parsley to infuse the butter with flavor. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the underside of each top bun with this aromatic mixture.

Bake to perfection:

Place your assembled sliders in the preheated oven and bake just until the cheese melts completely and the bun tops become golden and fragrant, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Prepare the coleslaw:

While the sliders bake, quickly mix the premade coleslaw with ranch dressing in a large bowl until everything is evenly coated. This cool, creamy component balances the warm, savory elements.

Assemble and serve:

Once the sliders come out of the oven, distribute the prepared coleslaw evenly over the melted cheese layer. Carefully place the toasted top buns over the coleslaw and serve immediately while everything is still warm.

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The absolute game changer in this recipe is using rotisserie chicken. I discovered this shortcut when I was overwhelmed preparing for my daughter's birthday party. Not only did it save me precious time, but the pre seasoned chicken actually added an extra dimension of flavor that everyone commented on. Now I keep a shredded rotisserie chicken in my freezer specifically for quick meals like this.

Storage Solutions

These sliders maintain their quality remarkably well when stored properly. Once completely cooled, place leftover sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. I recommend storing the coleslaw separately if possible, adding it fresh when reheating to maintain that perfect texture contrast. When reheating, wrap sliders in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, then uncover for the final 2 minutes to recrisp the buns. Avoid microwave reheating which tends to make the buns soggy.

Customization Options

One of the joys of this recipe is how easily it adapts to different preferences and dietary needs. For a spicier version, mix sriracha or hot sauce into your BBQ sauce. Vegetarians can substitute jackfruit or chickpeas for chicken with excellent results. Dairy free diners can use plant based cheese alternatives that still offer that crucial melty quality. For gluten sensitive guests, several brands now offer excellent gluten free slider buns. My personal favorite variation uses a Carolina mustard BBQ sauce and pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy kick that complements the creamy coleslaw perfectly.

Make Ahead Strategy

These sliders are perfect for stress free entertaining with some advance planning. Up to two days before serving, assemble everything except for the coleslaw and garlic butter topping. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. About 20 minutes before guests arrive, remove from refrigerator, add the garlic butter to the top buns, and bake covered with foil for 8 minutes at 350°F. Remove foil and bake an additional 3 minutes until tops are golden. Add fresh coleslaw before serving. This method ensures fresh, warm sliders without last minute cooking stress.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly, but you can also use homemade for a personalized touch.

→ Can these sliders be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble up to 2 days in advance without adding coleslaw or brushing butter. Store covered in the fridge and bake before serving.

→ What is the best way to reheat the sliders?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil for 5-8 minutes. Remove foil, then bake an additional 2-3 minutes to toast the buns.

→ Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?

Yes, feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is fine if you remove the coleslaw. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, thaw in the fridge, and reheat as needed.

→ Are the sliders suitable for vegetarians?

You can make a vegetarian version by substituting shredded chicken with plant-based meat or roasted vegetables.