BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or casual weeknight dinner. These delightful little sandwiches pack a punch of flavor, combining tender, juicy chicken smothered in tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled between soft, pillowy buns. The history of BBQ chicken can be traced back to the Southern United States, where grilling and smoking meats became a cherished tradition. Over the years, BBQ chicken has evolved into various regional styles, but the essence of smoky, sweet, and savory remains constant.

People love BBQ Chicken Sliders not just for their incredible taste, but also for their convenience. They are easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy families or last-minute gatherings. The combination of texturesfrom the crispy edges of the chicken to the softness of the buncreates a satisfying bite that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether youre hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a comforting meal, BBQ Chicken Sliders are sure to impress and delight your taste buds!

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
12 slider buns
1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup sliced pickles (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Prepare the Chicken**: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning stick better. 3. **Season the Chicken**: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. 4. **Sear the Chicken**: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a nice depth of flavor to the chicken. 5. **Bake the Chicken**: After searing, pour half of the BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). 6. **Shred the Chicken**: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix in the remaining BBQ sauce to ensure every piece is coated in that delicious flavor.

Preparing the Sliders

7. **Toast the Buns**: While the chicken is resting, you can prepare the slider buns. If you like a little crunch, you can toast them. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the slider buns cut-side down and toast them for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown. This step adds a nice texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy. 8. **Assemble the Sliders**: Now its time to put everything together! Start by placing a generous amount of the shredded BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each slider bun. 9. **Add Coleslaw**: Top the chicken with a spoonful of coleslaw. The crunch and creaminess of the coleslaw complement the smoky BBQ chicken perfectly. 10. **Add Pickles (Optional)**: If youre a fan of pickles, add a few slices on top of the coleslaw for an extra tangy kick. 11. **Finish with the Top Bun**: Place the top half of the slider bun on each assembled slider. You can secure them with a toothpick if you want to keep everything in place.

Serving the Sliders

12. **Garnish**: If you like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley on top of the sliders for a pop of color and freshness. 13. **Serve**: Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve them warm. These BBQ chicken sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or a casual family dinner.

Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Sliders

14. **Chicken Alternatives**: If you prefer, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. Just mix it with BBQ sauce and skip the searing and baking steps. 15. **Homemade BBQ Sauce**: If you want to make your own BBQ sauce, combine 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened. 16. **Coleslaw Variations**: Feel free to customize your coleslaw. You can add ingredients like diced apples, raisins, or nuts for added flavor and texture. 17. **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the shredded chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before assembling the sliders. 18

Conclusion:

In summary, these BBQ Chicken Sliders are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game. The combination of tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce, all nestled between soft slider buns, creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a game day gathering, or just craving a delicious meal, these sliders are sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these sliders with a side of crispy coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. You can also experiment with variations by adding toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or even a slice of cheese to customize each slider to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the chicken for pulled pork or jackfruit for a vegetarian option that still packs a punch. I encourage you to give this BBQ Chicken Sliders recipe a try and share your experience with me! I would love to hear how you made it your own and any creative twists you added. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so dont hesitate to get creative in the kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking! Print