If you’re craving a finger-licking, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious, this BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender shredded chicken soaked in rich, smoky barbecue sauce, melted cheese oozing between soft slider buns, all topped off with a buttery, garlicky crust. These sliders are perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or whenever you want a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or fun. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll be popping up on your menu time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe comes down to simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to deliver big on taste and texture. Each item plays a key role, whether it’s the juicy shredded chicken, the bold BBQ sauce, or the buttery, toasted buns that bring everything together.
- 12 slider buns: Soft and small, perfect for that classic slider size and easy to hold while packed with flavor.
- 3 cups shredded chicken: The hearty and protein-rich base. Using tender cooked chicken makes all the difference.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Adds that signature tangy, smoky kick that defines these sliders.
- 6 slices cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Melted cheese introduces a creamy, gooey layer that balances the BBQ.
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted): Essential for brushing the buns to achieve a golden, savory crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle punch of flavor, elevating the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Works alongside the garlic for a rounded seasoning punch.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional): Adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal to the top of the sliders.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Buns and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms separated. Arrange the bottom halves neatly in a baking dish to create a base for your sliders. This setup helps absorb the delicious sauces and juices during baking while keeping the buns perfectly toasted underneath.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Cheese
Next, mix the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce in a bowl until all the pieces are generously coated. This step ensures every bite bursts with that smoky barbecue flavor. Spread the saucy chicken evenly over the bottom buns, then layer 6 slices of your chosen cheese on top of the chicken. The cheese will melt beautifully in the oven and offer a rich, creamy complement to the tangy sauce.
Step 3: Add Butter and Seasonings to the Top Buns
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder and onion powder for a flavorful brush-on topping. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the top buns with this butter mixture. If you’re feeling fancy or just love a bit of texture, sprinkle sesame seeds over the tops for a subtle crunch and a lovely look.
Step 4: Bake Covered, Then Uncover
Cover your assembled sliders with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and help the cheese melt without drying out the buns. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the tops and achieve that irresistible golden-brown finish.
Step 5: Slice and Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, carefully slice the large assembled slider block into individual portions. Serve the BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe warm so everyone can enjoy the melty cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly toasted buns in every bite.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
To really elevate these sliders, consider adding fresh garnishes like thinly sliced red onion, crisp pickles, or a handful of chopped cilantro. A drizzle of extra BBQ sauce or a dash of hot sauce can add an exciting kick for those who love a little heat. These simple touches add layers of texture and flavor that brighten up each bite.
Side Dishes
BBQ Chicken Sliders always shine when paired with classic sides like crunchy coleslaw, crispy sweet potato fries, or even a fresh garden salad. If you’re feeding a crowd, consider serving alongside baked beans or corn on the cob to make your meal feel like a full barbecue feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual dinner, arrange the sliders on a large platter lined with parchment paper and garnish it with fresh herbs or lemon wedges. To add a fun twist, serve each slider on a small wooden skewer or decorative toothpick—this makes grabbing one a breeze and adds a charming presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover BBQ Chicken Sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep them tightly covered to prevent the buns from drying out and preserve the moist, flavorful filling.
Freezing
While fresh sliders are always best, you can freeze this BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe for longer storage. Wrap each slider securely in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen sliders can last for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat the sliders in the oven at 325°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the buns soggy. Using the oven helps retain that fresh-from-the-bakery texture.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves prep time. Just shred the meat and toss it in the BBQ sauce as instructed.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Choose a BBQ sauce that matches your flavor preference—whether sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy. A thicker sauce helps cling to the chicken better, making each slider bursting with taste.
Is it possible to make these sliders vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken for shredded jackfruit or a hearty veggie protein and use a vegetarian BBQ sauce. It won’t replicate the original exactly, but it’s a tasty alternative.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar or Monterey Jack with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda depending on your flavor cravings. Just be mindful of melting qualities.
Do I have to bake the sliders or can I just serve them cold?
Baking is key for melting the cheese and toasting the buns, which brings out the best flavors and textures. Cold sliders won’t have that same satisfying experience but could work in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe is the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, sparks smiles, and leaves everyone asking for seconds. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without these little bundles of deliciousness in your life.
Print
BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or meal perfect for gatherings and casual dinners. Tender shredded chicken is mixed with tangy BBQ sauce, layered generously on slider buns with melted cheese, then baked to golden perfection with a buttery garlic topping. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Slider Assembly
- 12 slider buns
- 3 cups shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 6 slices cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Butter Topping
- 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare buns: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half horizontally and arrange the bottom halves evenly in a baking dish, creating a base for the sliders.
- Mix chicken with BBQ sauce and layer: Combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until fully coated. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the buns. Then, place the slices of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top of the sauced chicken layer.
- Add top buns and prepare topping: Place the top halves of the slider buns on top of the cheese layer. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and onion powder. Brush this flavorful butter mixture generously over the tops of the buns. If using, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and visual appeal.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.
- Bake uncovered and finish: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes or until the tops of the buns turn a golden brown color and become slightly crispy.
- Serve: Remove from oven, slice the large portion into individual sliders, and serve warm to enjoy gooey, flavorful BBQ chicken sliders.
Notes
- You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Use different cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Adding pickles or coleslaw on top after baking can add texture and brightness.
- If sesame seeds are not desired, feel free to omit them without affecting flavor.
- Prepare sliders a few hours ahead and refrigerate, baking just before serving for fresh warmth.
