Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of BBQ Chicken Sliders! These little delights are always a hit at gatherings, and honestly, they’re a staple in my family. Whenever there’s a party or just a cozy get-together, you can bet I’ll whip up a batch of these sliders. They’re so easy to make and packed with that smoky, sweet BBQ flavor that makes everyone come back for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me, once you serve these, you’ll see them fly off the platter!
This recipe is super special to me because it’s been passed down through generations. My mom used to make them for our family BBQs, and now I’m carrying on that tradition. There’s just something about the combination of juicy shredded chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and that crunchy coleslaw on a soft bun that brings everyone together. So, are you ready to dive in and make the best BBQ Chicken Sliders of your life? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Sliders
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these scrumptious BBQ Chicken Sliders. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: You can use leftover chicken or grab a rotisserie chicken for convenience!
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand or flavor—it’s all about what you love!
- 12 slider buns: Soft and fluffy is key here; they should cradle that delicious filling perfectly.
- 1 cup coleslaw mix: This adds a nice crunch and freshness to the sliders.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: For creaminess in the coleslaw, but feel free to adjust based on your taste!
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: This gives your coleslaw a lovely tang.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A little hint of flavor that makes a big difference.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always essential for bringing out the flavors!
Now that you’ve got everything ready, you’re one step closer to slider heaven! Let’s move on to preparing these little bites of joy.
How to Prepare BBQ Chicken Sliders
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making these BBQ Chicken Sliders! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll have them ready in no time. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be the star of your next gathering!
- Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important because we want those sliders to bake up nice and warm!
- Mix the chicken and BBQ sauce: In a good-sized mixing bowl, toss your shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until it’s all nicely coated. You can use a fork or your hands—whatever feels right! Make sure every piece of chicken gets a good slathering of that sweet, smoky goodness.
- Prepare the coleslaw: In another bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. This adds a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the BBQ chicken.
- Arrange the slider buns: Take your slider buns and place them on a baking sheet. I like to line them up like little soldiers ready for action!
- Load them up: Now, spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavor lives!
- Add the coleslaw: Top each slider with a scoop of your delicious coleslaw mixture. This gives each bite that perfect crunch and zest.
- Cover them up: Place the top half of the buns over the coleslaw, like a cozy little blanket. Ooh, I can already smell the goodness!
- Bake to perfection: Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the buns are just starting to get a little golden. Keep an eye on them—no one likes burnt buns!
And just like that, you’ve prepared the most mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Sliders! Set them out on a platter, and watch your friends and family dive in. Trust me, they won’t be able to resist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these sliders ready to bake in no time!
- Simple ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients on hand, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of tender chicken and smoky BBQ sauce is irresistibly delicious, and the crunchy coleslaw adds a perfect contrast!
- Perfect for gatherings: These sliders are always a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a game day, family BBQ, or just a casual get-together.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the BBQ sauce or add your favorite toppings to make them uniquely yours.
- Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters love these sliders, making them a great choice for family meals!
Seriously, once you try these BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’ll be making them over and over again. They’re just that good!
Tips for Success
Ready to take your BBQ Chicken Sliders to the next level? I’ve got some handy tips that’ll ensure you nail this recipe every single time. Let’s make these sliders the talk of the party!
- Use quality BBQ sauce: The sauce is the star of the show here! Experiment with different brands or even make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. A good sauce can elevate the flavor immensely!
- Don’t overmix the coleslaw: When combining the coleslaw ingredients, stir gently. You want that crunch to shine through, not turn into mush!
- Keep an eye on the baking time: Ovens can vary, so check your sliders around the 10-minute mark. You want them heated through but not dried out. A little golden color on the buns is perfect!
- Experiment with toppings: While the coleslaw is fantastic, you can jazz things up with slices of pickles, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra zing!
- Serve immediately: These sliders are best enjoyed warm. If you let them sit too long, the buns can get soggy. So, get them on the table right after baking!
- Double the recipe: Trust me, if you’re serving a crowd, make a double batch! They’ll disappear faster than you can say “BBQ Chicken Sliders.”
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to slider success! I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you!
Variations of BBQ Chicken Sliders
Now, if you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to mix things up with your BBQ Chicken Sliders, I’ve got some fun variations for you! Each one brings a unique twist that keeps things exciting. So, let’s get creative in the kitchen!
- Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Swap out the BBQ sauce for your favorite buffalo sauce! The spicy kick is fantastic and pairs perfectly with some blue cheese crumbles on top of the coleslaw.
- Hawaiian BBQ Sliders: Add some pineapple tidbits to the BBQ chicken mixture for a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. It’s like a tropical vacation in every bite!
- Smoky Chipotle Sliders: Mix in some chipotle sauce with the BBQ for a smoky, spicy flavor that’ll have your taste buds dancing. This is a great option if you like a little heat!
- Teriyaki Chicken Sliders: Use teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ sauce, and top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Veggie Sliders: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with shredded jackfruit mixed with BBQ sauce. It’s a fantastic meat substitute that’s packed with flavor!
- Southwestern Sliders: Add black beans, corn, and diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a Southwestern flair. Top with avocado slices for creaminess!
These variations are super easy to make and can really jazz up your BBQ Chicken Sliders! I love how just a few simple changes can completely transform the flavor profile. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combo!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of these mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Sliders, and you’ve got some leftovers? No worries! I’ve got you covered with the best ways to store and reheat them so you can enjoy every last bite.
Storing Leftovers: Allow the sliders to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re sealed well to keep that deliciousness locked in!
Freezing Sliders: If you want to save them for later, these sliders freeze beautifully! Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions: To bring your BBQ Chicken Sliders back to life, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sliders on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the buns are nice and soft again. You could also microwave them if you’re in a hurry—just pop one on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave’s power. Just be careful not to overheat them, or you’ll end up with a rubbery bun!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor those scrumptious BBQ Chicken Sliders long after the initial feast. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delicious BBQ Chicken Sliders! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on a single slider, so your actual numbers might vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use. But here’s a rough breakdown:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
These sliders pack a satisfying punch while still being a great option for your gatherings. They’re hearty and flavorful without being overly heavy, making them perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite and feel good about serving them to your friends and family!
FAQ About BBQ Chicken Sliders
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully cook it before shredding and mixing it with the BBQ sauce. Just remember to plan ahead for thawing!
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
I recommend using a sauce that you love! Whether it’s sweet, tangy, or smoky, the best BBQ sauce is the one that tickles your taste buds. Experiment with different types to find your favorite!
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coleslaw mixture a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Just assemble the sliders and bake them right before serving for that fresh, warm taste!
How can I make these BBQ Chicken Sliders gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, simply use gluten-free slider buns. Double-check the ingredients in your BBQ sauce as well, as some may contain gluten.
Can I customize the coleslaw?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like diced apples, raisins, or even a sprinkle of celery seeds for an extra flavor boost. Make it your own!
BBQ Chicken Sliders: 7 Irresistible & Flavorful Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce.
- In another bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place slider buns on a baking sheet.
- Add a generous amount of BBQ chicken on each bun.
- Top each slider with coleslaw mixture.
- Cover with the top half of the buns.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Notes
- You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to your preference.
- These sliders are best served warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: BBQ Chicken Sliders