BBQ Chicken Sliders are like a warm hug on a plate, bursting with smoky-sweet flavors and juicy, tender chicken. Picture this: a succulent chicken breast slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, nestled between soft slider buns, all topped with crisp coleslaw that adds the perfect crunch. You can practically smell the grilling goodness wafting through the air and hear the sizzle as you bite into these delightful sliders.
Every time I whip up BBQ Chicken Sliders, I’m transported back to summer cookouts at my friend Jamie’s house. We’d gather around the grill, laughter filling the air, and I would sneak extra sliders when no one was looking. These sliders aren’t just food; they’re memories of good times and great flavors that make any gathering feel special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These BBQ Chicken Sliders are easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers
- Their smoky-sweet flavor profile is a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone wanting more
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors from the toppings, they look fantastic on any table
- Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; switch up the toppings based on your family’s preferences!
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Using 3-4 chicken breasts ensures juicy meat for each slider; adjust based on your crowd size.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade variety for an extra burst of flavor.
- Slider Buns: Soft and fluffy buns are key to soaking up all that delicious sauce without falling apart.
- Coleslaw Mix: A crunchy slaw balances out the richness of the BBQ sauce; you can buy pre-packaged or make your own.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles add a delightful crunch and extra zing to each slider.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). While it’s heating up, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper for added flavor.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Don’t forget to flip them halfway through!
Step 3: Add BBQ Sauce
During the last few minutes of grilling, brush each chicken breast generously with BBQ sauce. Let it caramelize slightly for that irresistible glaze.
Step 4: Slice and Assemble
Once cooked, remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin pieces. Place sliced chicken onto slider buns.
Step 5: Top It Off
Layer on some coleslaw mix and add pickles as desired. Cover with the top half of the bun.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your assembled sliders onto a platter. Drizzle any remaining BBQ sauce over them for an extra flavor boost before serving!
These BBQ Chicken Sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether it’s game day or a casual family dinner, you’ll find yourself making these again and again!
You Must Know
- BBQ Chicken Sliders are not just a meal; they’re an experience
- Perfect for summer barbecues or game days, these sliders are easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser
- Their juicy chicken and tangy barbecue sauce create a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least two hours to enhance flavor. Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, then toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce. Meanwhile, toast slider buns until golden brown for that perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the BBQ sauce for your favorite flavors—think teriyaki or honey mustard. You can also add toppings like coleslaw, jalapeños, or avocado slices to bring an extra zing to your BBQ Chicken Sliders.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave them for about 30 seconds or pop them in the oven at 350°F until warm and crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your chicken juicy by letting it rest after grilling; this locks in moisture
- Use high-quality BBQ sauce for maximum flavor impact
- Don’t skip the toasted buns; they add essential texture!
I remember the first time I made BBQ Chicken Sliders for a family gathering. Everyone raved about them, and my cousin even tried to sneak a few extras home!
FAQs:
What are BBQ Chicken Sliders?
BBQ Chicken Sliders are small sandwiches filled with shredded chicken that’s been cooked in a tangy barbecue sauce. These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or casual family dinners. The combination of tender chicken and the sweet, smoky flavor of BBQ sauce makes them irresistible. You can also customize your sliders by adding toppings like coleslaw, pickles, or cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
How long do I need to cook BBQ Chicken for Sliders?
To prepare BBQ chicken for sliders, cook the chicken for 20 to 30 minutes if you are grilling or baking it at 375°F. If you’re using a slow cooker, allow about 4 to 6 hours on low heat until the chicken becomes tender and easy to shred. Cooking times may vary based on the method used and the thickness of the chicken pieces. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption.
Can I make BBQ Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can make BBQ Chicken Sliders ahead of time! Cook and shred the chicken, then mix it with the barbecue sauce. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture and assemble your sliders with fresh buns and toppings. This makes it convenient for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
What toppings go well with BBQ Chicken Sliders?
You can choose from various toppings to enhance your BBQ Chicken Sliders. Popular options include creamy coleslaw, which adds crunch and a tangy flavor, or pickled jalapeños for some heat. Additionally, cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack can provide a rich creaminess. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also add freshness and color to each bite.
Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Sliders:
In conclusion, BBQ Chicken Sliders offer a delicious and versatile option for any gathering or meal. With their tender shredded chicken coated in flavorful barbecue sauce, these sliders can be customized easily to suit individual tastes. Prepare them ahead of time for convenience, making them perfect for busy days or entertaining guests. Enjoy experimenting with various toppings to elevate your slider experience even further!
BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 sliders 1x
Description
BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful combination of tender, juicy chicken coated in tangy barbecue sauce, nestled between soft slider buns. Topped with crunchy coleslaw and zesty pickles, these sliders are perfect for game days, summer gatherings, or any casual meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to please everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 slider buns
- 2 cups coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In the last few minutes of grilling, brush BBQ sauce over the chicken and let it caramelize.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Assemble sliders with sliced chicken on buns, topped with coleslaw and pickles.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce drizzled on top if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
