BBQ Chicken Sliders

BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers. These flavorful sliders combine smoky BBQ chicken and melted cheddar cheese on buttery garlic buns, topped with zesty coleslaw. Their easy preparation and mouthwatering taste make them a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes from start to finish, you can whip these up effortlessly.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of BBQ chicken and cheddar creates a deliciously rich flavor that satisfies every craving.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for parties, picnics, or even a cozy night in—these sliders fit any occasion.
• Easy Cleanup: Using parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze, so you can enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Kid-Friendly: These mini sandwiches are perfect for little hands and picky eaters alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Brush for butter

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your sliders, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper or foil: Makes cleanup simple by preventing sticking, allowing for easy serving.
• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.

Ingredients

Smoky BBQ chicken and cheddar sliders with coleslaw on garlic butter buns—a delicious handheld treat.

For the Sliders

• 12 slider buns or dinner rolls
• 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken
• ¾ cup BBQ sauce, homemade or store bought
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 4-6 slices cheddar cheese or ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Coleslaw

• 2 cups premixed bagged coleslaw
• ½ cup ranch dressing

For the Garlic Butter Topping

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon parsley, dried or fresh

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a large sheet pan or two half sheet pans with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Buns

Cut the slider buns in half. Place the bottom buns and top buns side by side on the prepared sheet pan. You may also use separate pans if preferred.

Step 3: Mix Chicken and BBQ Sauce

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom buns.

Step 4: Add Onions and Cheese

Scatter the sliced red onions over the BBQ chicken layer. Top it off with cheddar cheese slices or sprinkle shredded cheese across.

Step 5: Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture

Melt the butter in a small bowl. Stir in the minced garlic and parsley until well combined. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the top buns.

Step 6: Bake Until Toasted

Place your baking tray in the oven and bake for about 3-5 minutes. Look for melted cheese and lightly toasted top buns.

Step 7: Mix Coleslaw

In another large bowl, combine the coleslaw with ranch dressing until evenly mixed to create a creamy topping.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Remove trays from oven once done. Distribute coleslaw evenly over melted cheese on bottom buns. Place toasted top buns on top and cut into individual sliders or pull apart to serve immediately.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sliders

Serving BBQ chicken sliders is a delightful way to enjoy this tasty dish with friends and family. They are versatile and can be paired with various sides or toppings to enhance their flavor.

Classic Pairings

• Pickles: Add some crunch and tanginess with dill pickles on the side.
• Potato Chips: Serve crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch alongside your sliders.

Unique Additions

• Hot Sauce: Drizzle some hot sauce on the sliders for those who like an extra kick.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top for added freshness.

Perfect for Gatherings

• Game Day Platter: Arrange sliders on a large platter, perfect for sharing during sports events.
• Mini Slider Bar: Set up a slider bar with various toppings and sauces for guests to customize their own.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Sliders

To make your BBQ chicken sliders truly stand out, follow these simple tips.

• Bold Flavor: Use high-quality BBQ sauce for rich flavor. Homemade sauce can elevate your dish.
• Moist Chicken: Ensure the shredded chicken is moist; rotisserie chicken works great for this purpose.
• Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for varied taste profiles.
• Toasted Buns: Always toast the buns slightly in the oven; this adds texture and prevents sogginess.
• Coleslaw Crunch: Mix coleslaw just before serving to maintain its crunchiness and freshness.
• Serve Warm: Enjoy sliders warm right out of the oven for the best experience.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Sliders

BBQ chicken sliders pair well with many sides that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A classic crunchy side that balances the richness of the sliders.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is easy to prepare.
3. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans provide a hearty contrast and deepen the barbecue flavor experience.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds a cool texture that pairs perfectly with warm sliders.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: Cheesy pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, making it an excellent accompaniment.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of savory sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making BBQ Chicken Sliders can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using too much sauce: Adding excessive BBQ sauce can make the sliders soggy. Aim for just enough to coat the chicken evenly.
• Overloading ingredients: While toppings are delicious, piling on too many can make the sliders fall apart. Stick to a balanced amount of chicken, cheese, and coleslaw.
• Not toasting buns: Skipping the garlic butter on the buns can lead to a bland flavor and texture. Always brush the tops before baking for that golden touch.
• Ignoring serving size: Underestimating portion sizes may leave guests wanting more. Be sure to prepare enough sliders based on your crowd size.
• Skipping coleslaw: Omitting coleslaw takes away from the crunch and freshness that complements the BBQ chicken. Always include it for a well-rounded flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Chicken Sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through. This keeps the buns crispy.
• Microwave: Heat each slider for about 30 seconds on medium power. This is quick but might make buns soft.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered with a lid, until heated through. This method helps maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes, using leftover cooked chicken or grilling fresh chicken works perfectly for your BBQ Chicken Sliders.

What type of BBQ sauce is best?

A tangy or smoky BBQ sauce enhances the flavor of these sliders. Choose one that fits your taste preference!

Can I customize toppings for my BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! You can add jalapeños for heat or pickles for tanginess—get creative with your favorite flavors!

How do I prevent soggy buns?

To avoid soggy buns, ensure you don’t overload with sauce and toast them lightly before assembling your sliders.

Final Thoughts

These BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. They work great for parties, game days, or family dinners. Feel free to customize toppings and sauces based on your preferences, making them a hit at any gathering!

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