BBQ Chicken Sliders are little bites of tasty happiness! These sliders feature shredded chicken smothered in tangy, smoky barbecue sauce, all tucked into soft, fluffy slider buns. The perfect mix of sweet and savory with a hint of spice makes every bite a delight.
I love making these sliders for casual get-togethers or quick weeknight dinners because they’re easy to put together and everyone ends up asking for seconds. One simple tip I have is to warm the buns just a bit before assembling; it makes the whole slider feel extra fresh and cozy.
Whether I’m serving these at a party or as a fun family meal, BBQ Chicken Sliders always bring smiles around the table. They’re great paired with some crispy coleslaw or pickles on the side, and I swear they even taste better the next day if you have leftovers—if you can resist eating them all at once!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s already cooked and flavorful. You can also use leftover roast chicken or cook chicken breasts and shred them yourself for a fresher option.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce—sweet, smoky, or spicy. If you like, mix in some hot sauce for a kick. For a healthier option, look for low-sugar or homemade sauces.
Slider Buns: Soft buns work best to hold juicy chicken without falling apart. If you can’t find sliders, small dinner rolls or even mini bagels can work as a substitute.
Optional Toppings: Pickles add crunch and tang, coleslaw brings freshness, and cheddar cheese adds richness. Feel free to skip or swap these based on what you like or have on hand.
How Can I Get Juicy and Flavorful BBQ Chicken Every Time?
To keep your chicken juicy and flavorful, follow these simple tips:
- Mix shredded chicken with enough BBQ sauce to coat every piece—this helps lock in moisture and flavor.
- Warm the chicken gently on the stove or in the oven before assembling to keep it hot without drying it out.
- Avoid over-handling the chicken after mixing to keep the texture tender.
- If you’re cooking chicken fresh, poach or bake it with a bit of seasoning before shredding for extra taste.
By layering flavor in the sauce and not overcooking the chicken, your sliders will be juicy and delicious every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I like a medium-sized one for combining the chicken and sauce easily.
- Oven or toaster oven – perfect for warming the buns so they’re soft and toasty.
- Baking sheet or tray – great for toasting buns or warming everything evenly.
- Serving platter – makes it easy to present and serve your sliders attractively.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top of the chicken for extra richness.
- Mix in some smoked paprika or chili powder into the sauce for a smoky, spicy twist.
- Top with sliced pickles, crunchy coleslaw, or diced onions for added texture and flavor.
- Swap chicken for pulled pork or shredded turkey if you’re feeling different flavors.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 12 slider buns (small soft sandwich rolls)
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced pickles
- Coleslaw
- Cheddar cheese slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these sliders takes about 10 minutes, including mixing the chicken and warming the buns. It’s a super quick recipe that’s perfect for when you want something delicious without waiting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, stir the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce until the chicken is fully coated. This will make sure every bite is flavorful and juicy.
2. Warm the Slider Buns:
Place the slider buns on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This makes the buns soft and slightly toasted — perfect for holding all that tasty chicken.
3. Assemble the Sliders:
Carefully divide the BBQ chicken mixture evenly among the warmed buns, piling it generously on the bottom half. If you like, add your favorite toppings like pickles, coleslaw, or a slice of cheddar cheese for extra flavor and crunch.
4. Finish and Serve:
Place the top bun on each slider and serve them warm right away. These sliders are great for gatherings or a quick family meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Sliders?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the chicken fully before shredding and mixing with the BBQ sauce. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Can I Make BBQ Chicken Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the shredded chicken mixed with barbecue sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Warm the mixture and buns before assembling for best taste and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before enjoying.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Coleslaw, pickles, baked beans, or potato chips complement these sliders well and make for a delicious meal.