BBQ chicken sliders are the perfect crowd-pleaser! Picture this: tender, juicy chicken drenched in smoky BBQ sauce, nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls, topped with gooey cheese and fresh herbs. These sliders are excellent for game day, family gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. What makes them stand out is their versatility and flavor combination—a little sweet, a little savory, and a whole lot of delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
These BBQ chicken sliders are a breeze to prepare, making them ideal for any occasion, from casual weekend get-togethers to festive celebrations. They’re budget-friendly too, so you can delight your guests without breaking the bank. Plus, everyone loves sliders! They’re the perfect size for little hands, making them a hit with kids. Whether you serve them for dinner or as a party appetizer, they’re sure to be devoured in record time.
"These BBQ chicken sliders were a hit at my family reunion! They disappeared within minutes. I love how easy they are to make!"
The Cooking Process Explained
Making these BBQ chicken sliders is simpler than you might think. The whole process involves just a few steps that can be easily followed, so even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen. You’ll start by preheating your oven and preparing your chicken, which can be made ahead of time if you’re in a rush.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll gather for this delicious recipe:
- Cooked chicken (shredded)
- BBQ sauce
- Gouda cheese (sliced)
- Hawaiian rolls
- Onion (chopped)
- Cilantro (chopped)
- Garlic herb butter
Feel free to substitute the Gouda with cheddar or pepper jack if you prefer a different flavor. For a lighter version, you can use grilled chicken or turkey instead of traditional BBQ chicken.
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, shred your cooked chicken and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and lay the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Generously layer the BBQ chicken over the bottom of the rolls.
- Top the chicken with slices of Gouda cheese, then sprinkle chopped onion and cilantro on top for extra flavor.
- Place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls over the chicken and toppings.
- Brush a generous amount of garlic-herb butter over the top of the rolls for a golden, crispy finish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm, and prepare for compliments!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving BBQ chicken sliders, the possibilities are endless! You can plate them on a beautiful platter, garnish with extra cilantro, or even set up a slider bar with additional toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or extra BBQ sauce.
Pair these sliders with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal. They also go well with a refreshing green salad or some crispy chips for a fun crunch!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your BBQ chicken sliders fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan on enjoying them later, you can freeze the assembled sliders (before baking) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are some tried-and-true tips to enhance your slider-making experience:
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time; it’s flavorful and already cooked!
- For extra crunch, consider toasting the Hawaiian rolls slightly before assembly.
- If you love a kick, add some sliced jalapeños to the layers for added heat.
- Preparing the BBQ chicken a day in advance can deepen the flavors and make assembly a snap.
Creative Twists
Feel like switching things up? Here are some variations you could try:
- Swap out the BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
- Use different types of bread, like pretzel rolls or brioche, for a unique texture and flavor.
- For a healthier option, use sliders made from whole grain rolls and substitute low-fat cheese.
- Add pineapple slices for a Hawaiian flair or jalapeños for a creative kick.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare these sliders?
The total prep time is about 10-15 minutes, plus baking time of approximately 25-30 minutes.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and store it assembled in the fridge up to a day in advance. Just bake before serving.
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
You can use any BBQ sauce you love! Smoky, sweet, or tangy—just choose what fits your taste.
Are there gluten-free options available?
Yes! Simply replace the Hawaiian rolls with gluten-free versions, and you’re set for a delicious experience.
With their delightful flavors and simple prep, BBQ chicken sliders are bound to be a knockout dish in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this feast with family and friends—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: None
Description
Tender, juicy chicken drenched in smoky BBQ sauce, nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls, topped with gooey cheese and fresh herbs—perfect for game day or family gatherings!
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken (shredded)
- BBQ sauce
- Gouda cheese (sliced)
- Hawaiian rolls
- Onion (chopped)
- Cilantro (chopped)
- Garlic herb butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, shred your cooked chicken and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and lay the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Generously layer the BBQ chicken over the bottom of the rolls.
- Top the chicken with slices of Gouda cheese, then sprinkle chopped onion and cilantro on top for extra flavor.
- Place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls over the chicken and toppings.
- Brush a generous amount of garlic-herb butter over the top of the rolls for a golden, crispy finish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm, and prepare for compliments!
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken to save time and toast rolls for extra crunch. Make ahead and store assembled for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American