Pin It BBQ Chicken Sliders have become my go-to anytime I want a crowd-pleasing, hands-on meal that comes together fast. These sliders pile succulent pulled BBQ chicken onto soft buns, finished with crunchy homemade slaw and tangy pickles. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or weeknight dinners when you want big flavor without fuss.
After making these on a last-minute whim for a backyard get-together, they instantly became a family staple. My friends beg me for the recipe every time.
Ingredients
- Pulled cooked chicken: buy a rotisserie chicken or use boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs just make sure it is moist and shredded finely
- BBQ sauce: look for a smoky thick sauce or make your own using ketchup apple cider vinegar smoked paprika and molasses for balanced sweetness
- Slider buns: go for soft potato or Hawaiian rolls they toast beautifully and balance saucy fillings
- Coleslaw mix: choose fresh pre-shredded cabbage or shred it yourself for extra crunch purple and green cabbage add color
- Mayonnaise: real full-fat mayo gives the slaw creaminess without weighing it down
- Apple cider vinegar: brings brightness and a bit of tang to the slaw
- Honey: a drizzle brings out sweetness in the cabbage and balances the BBQ sauce
- Dill pickles: slice them thin for a sharp tangy crunch quickly cuts through the richness
- Kosher salt: sprinkle lightly over your slaw to help it wilt and absorb the dressing
- Freshly cracked black pepper: adds a little kick and elevates the flavors
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Use your fingers or two forks to shred your cooked chicken into bite-size strands If the chicken feels dry toss lightly with a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth
- Sauce the Chicken:
- Combine your shredded chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat with enough BBQ sauce to generously coat Stir frequently and heat until steaming hot about five to seven minutes
- Mix the Slaw:
- In a mixing bowl whisk mayo apple cider vinegar honey salt and pepper until smooth Toss with cabbage mix until evenly dressed Let stand five to ten minutes so flavors meld
- Toast the Buns:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium Add buns cut side down and toast for one to two minutes until golden and warm This prevents soggy sliders
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Pile warm BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each bun Top with a scoop of creamy slaw and a few pickle slices Cover with the top bun and press gently to set
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve right away for the freshest contrast of hot chicken and cool slaw Keep extra pickles and napkins nearby
Pin It My favorite part is how the homemade slaw cuts the richness of the meat It reminds me of picnics with my sister where the spotlight was always the blend of smoky and tangy flavors in each bite.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pulled chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge They will stay fresh for up to three days Always assemble sliders just before eating so the buns do not get soggy For longer storage freeze the BBQ chicken in a freezer-safe bag up to two months.
Ingredient Substitutions
No rotisserie chicken Swap in leftover turkey or cooked pork Shoulder works great for that classic BBQ texture Gluten-free Make sure to use gluten-free buns and double-check your BBQ sauce Dairy-free Use vegan mayo in the slaw and skip buttery buns.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sliders alongside grilled corn on the cob or baked beans for a total BBQ feast Sometimes I add a slice of cheddar for extra richness If you like things spicy tuck in a few pickled jalapenos.
Cultural And Seasonal Adaptations
Southern roots are at the heart of this dish but in summer try topping with fresh peaches or tomatoes For fall a slaw with apples and a touch of cinnamon is delicious BBQ chicken sliders shine year-round.
Pin It Last Fourth of July the entire tray vanished in minutes even the picky eaters wanted more These sliders always draw requests for take-home extras and make every gathering feel festive.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best for sliders?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs are ideal for juicy, tender BBQ chicken in sliders.
- → How do you make the slaw crunchy?
Use fresh cabbage and carrots, tossing with vinegar or mayo just before serving to maintain crunch.
- → Can pickles be swapped for another topping?
Yes. Try sliced jalapeños or coleslaw relish for a different flavorful twist on your sliders.
- → Are slider buns essential?
Slider buns provide a soft, miniature base, but you can substitute with dinner rolls or mini brioche.
- → What side dishes pair well?
Serve with potato chips, corn on the cob, or a light salad for a complete meal experience.