Let’s talk comfort food. Remember those nights as a kid when the smell of barbecue filled the air?Barbecue Chicken SlidersHow can I capture the same feeling in a fraction of the time? What are some of the easiest things to throw together on a weeknight? I find myself making them more often than burgers lately – they’re just so versatile and satisfying. Is it easier to cook pulled pork than ham?
What are barbecue chicken sliders?
Think of it as mini pulled chicken sandwiches, but with a kick of smoky barbecue flavor and served with fresh lime juice. On the cutest little slider buns! What is essentially shredded chicken simmered in your favorite barbecue sauce, piled high on soft, smooth, tender bread? Buttery slider rolls. What are some great side dishes to serve with coleslaw, pickles, or even melted cheese? Is it a crowd pleaser? What are some of the best lunche What is the perfect size for everything?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start?flavorIs it amazing? What is the perfect barbecue sauce for chicken? Who doesn’t love a good barbecue?simplicityWhat are some of the best recipes for dinner in under 30 minutes? I’m a weeknight warrior! I always make sure to keep a thawed chicken in the fridge, just in case.
The recipe is also incredibly delicious.cost-efficientWhat are the best barbecue sauces for chicken thighs? What I love about slider buns is that they are super affordable.versatilityCan you customize the barbecue sauce to your liking? What are some good toppings for a salad? If you love quick and easy chicken dinners like my favorite sheet pan fajitas, then these sliders are a must try. Are definitely going to become a new staple in your house?
How do I make barbecue chicken sliders?
Quick Overview
What is the best way to cook chicken, smother it in barbecue sauce, and pile it on top of a plate? What is the best part about using rotisserie chicken to make this even faster? Is this the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen genius? I’m exhausted. If you’re not a confident cook, you can nail this!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or use a rotisserie chicken for a shortcut!) I prefer thighs because they stay juicy, but breasts work too.
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 tsp smoked paprika (this adds a lovely smoky flavor!)
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1/4 tsp onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
For the Barbecue Goodness:
* 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce. I’m partial to a smoky-sweet Kansas City style sauce.
* 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (this adds a nice tang!)
* 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
For the Sliders:
* 12 slider buns. Hawaiian rolls are my absolute favorite, but any kind will work.
* 2 tbsp melted butter
* Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, cheese, crispy fried onions
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
If you’re using chicken thighs, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. What’s the best way to shred a rotisserie chicken? I find this step is better when I use the instant read thermometer to check for the internal temperature.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool slightly and then shred it with two forks. This is also a great stress reliever, just saying. Alternatively, you can toss it in a mixer with the paddle attachment, and it comes out perfectly shredded.
Step 3: Make the Barbecue Sauce
In the same skillet, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the barbecue sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to soak up the flavor. I always do this when I need to concentrate on something else, it gives me a distraction.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Brush the slider buns with melted butter and toast them lightly in a skillet or oven. This step is optional, but it adds a nice touch.
Step 6: Pile High and Serve!
Pile the barbecue chicken onto the slider buns and add your favorite toppings. Serve immediately and watch them disappear! It’s especially good with some pickles to cut through the sauce.
What should I serve it with?
These Barbecue Chicken SlidersWhat are some of my favorite pairings?
For a Cookout:What are some of the best recipes for coleslaw, potato salad and corn on the cob?
What are some quick dinner ideas for a weeknight?What are some good side salads to serve with hummus?
For Game Day: Serve them with chips and dip, wings, and plenty of beer. It’s a guaranteed touchdown!
My family always asks for these with a big bowl of mac and cheese. What are some of the healthiest combinations? Is it true that my kids will eat it without a fight?
How do I make BBQ chicken sliders?
What are some tricks I’ve learned over the years to make these sliders even better?
Chicken Choice: Which is Chicken thighs are more forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re less likely to dry out. But if you prefer breasts, just be sure not to overcook them.
What are the best sauceDon’t be afraid to experiment with different barbecue sauces. What are some of the best chipotle sauces? Is it possible to mix two different sauces together?
Toasting the Buns: What areHow do you toast buns? I always do this, even if I’m short on time.
Coleslaw Tip: If you’re adding coleslaw, make sure to drain it well so it doesn’t make the sliders soggy. I hate soggy sliders!
Cheese Please: A slice of melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese takes these sliders to the next level. Trust me on this one!
Crispy Onions: Sprinkle some crispy fried onions on top for added crunch and flavor. This is my secret weapon!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Barbecue Chicken Sliders (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the chicken and slider buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra barbecue sauce if needed. Toast the slider buns before assembling.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you know you will have leftovers, you can avoid adding the glaze to the chicken. Store the glaze separately and add it before you reheat to have the most flavor possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These Barbecue Chicken Sliders are seriously the perfect weeknight meal. They’re easy, delicious, and always a hit with the whole family. Plus, they’re so versatile that you can customize them to your liking. If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, look no further! If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my recipe for sloppy joes. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you think!

Barbecue Chicken Sliders
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Barbecue sauce
- 12 count Slider buns
- 0.5 cup Coleslaw Optional topping
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss chicken with barbecue sauce.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve on slider buns with coleslaw (optional).