Name: Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Hawaiian rolls; 3 cups shredded chicken; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 1/2 pieces red onion (thinly sliced); 4 ounces cheddar cheese (sliced); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt; freshly chopped cilantro

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There’s something magical about the combination of tender, juicy chicken and zesty barbecue sauce, especially in a cozy setting. That’s why I love making Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders for gatherings with friends or family. I still remember the first time I made these delightful sliders; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait for the first bite. As everyone gathered around the table, the anticipation was palpable. These sliders have become a staple at my get-togethers, always disappearing in a flash. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both casual lunches and festive occasions.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
22 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Oven, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl

What We Adore About This Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders

Comfort in Every Bite

One of the main reasons I adore Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders is the comfort they bring. There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm slider packed with savory flavors. The shredded chicken, coated in rich barbecue sauce, creates a harmonious balance that’s simply irresistible.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a game day gathering, or a cozy winter evening, these sliders fit right in. They’re a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike. You can serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, making them versatile for any meal setting.

Simple Preparation

What I love most about these sliders is how straightforward they are to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying your company rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Customizable to Your Liking

Another great feature is their adaptability. You can easily customize Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders by choosing your favorite types of barbecue sauce or adding extra toppings like jalapeños or coleslaw. This gives everyone the opportunity to create their perfect bite.

Great for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), they store wonderfully in the fridge. Simply reheat and enjoy them the next day – they taste just as good!

Everything You Need for Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders

The ingredients for Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s full of flavor and satisfaction. Each component plays a vital role, from the soft Hawaiian rolls that cradle the delicious filling to the tender shredded chicken enveloped in barbecue sauce. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

12 Hawaiian rolls: These sweet, soft rolls are the perfect vessel for the savory filling. Their light texture complements the richness of the chicken and sauce.
3 cups shredded chicken: Tender and flavorful, the shredded chicken is the star of the dish. You can use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
1 cup barbecue sauce: This adds a smoky sweetness that enhances the chicken. Feel free to choose your favorite brand or homemade version.
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: The red onion provides a mild crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the sliders.
4 ounces cheddar cheese, sliced: Melty cheese adds richness and a delightful stretchiness that makes each bite even more satisfying.
2 tablespoons butter, melted: Brushing the tops of the rolls with butter before baking gives them a golden finish.
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt: This seasoning elevates the dish, adding a subtle savory note.
Freshly chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds a fresh touch and brightens the overall flavor.

Recipe Directions for Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders

Making Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders is a straightforward process that’s perfect for any home cook. Follow these steps to create your delicious sliders:

Preheat your oven to 350˚F. This is the ideal temperature for toasting the rolls and melting the cheese.
Prepare your ingredients by mixing together the shredded chicken and barbecue sauce in a bowl. Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the sauce for maximum flavor. Set this mixture aside.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter and garlic salt. This mixture will give your rolls a delicious buttery flavor.
Take the Hawaiian rolls and cut them in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom for each slider. Lay the bottoms in a baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly together.
Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls. Make sure to cover each roll generously for a satisfying bite.
Next, place the thinly sliced red onion over the chicken layer, followed by the cheddar cheese slices evenly on top. This will ensure every slider has a hint of onion and cheesy goodness.
Top the sliders with the upper halves of the rolls, gently pressing them down to create a compact sandwich.
Using a sharp knife, cut between the sandwiches to make individual sliders. This will make serving easier once they’re baked.
Brush the tops of the rolls with the garlic butter mixture, allowing some to run between the rolls. This step is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy top.
Now, bake the sliders in the preheated oven for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them and remove when they’re perfectly golden.
Once done, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve the sliders warm, and watch them disappear!

Things Worth Knowing

Use rotisserie chicken: For an even quicker option, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store and shred it for this recipe.
Cheese choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for varied flavors.
Toast the rolls: Lightly toasting the rolls before adding the filling can add an extra layer of texture.
Extra toppings: Consider adding jalapeños, pickles, or coleslaw for additional flavors and crunch.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are so many exciting ways to put your twist on Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders. Here are a few ideas:

Storage: Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently in the oven.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking duration.
Variations: You could swap the BBQ sauce for a buffalo sauce for a spicier kick!
Serving sizes: Adjust the recipe to make as many sliders as you need; simply scale the ingredients accordingly.
Side dishes: Pair these sliders with coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Enjoy Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders

Game Day Delight: Serve these sliders at your next game day gathering for a guaranteed hit.
Casual Lunch: They make for a fun and easy lunch option, especially when you’re feeding a crowd.
Family Dinner: Gather the family around for a cozy dinner. These sliders are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Quick Snack: Heat a couple of sliders for a quick afternoon snack that’s satisfying and delicious.
Garnishes: Try adding pickled jalapeños or avocado slices for extra flavor and texture.
Seasonal Pairings: During summer, serve these with a refreshing watermelon salad or corn on the cob.

FAQ

Absolutely! While shredded chicken works wonderfully for Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders, you can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience or even grilled chicken for a different flavor profile. Be sure to shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces to fit perfectly in the sliders.

The choice of barbecue sauce can really make or break your sliders. I recommend using a sauce that you enjoy! Whether it’s tangy, sweet, or smoky, the flavor will infuse the chicken and enhance the overall taste of your sliders. You could even make your own sauce for a personal touch!

Yes! You can assemble the sliders and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight before baking them. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to adjust the baking time if they’re coming straight from the refrigerator.

There are plenty of great side options that pair beautifully with Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders. Some of my favorites include coleslaw, potato salad, or even a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with baked beans or fries. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delicious, crowd-pleasing option that combines tender chicken and zesty barbecue sauce in a convenient slider form. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion! So gather your friends and family, and enjoy these delightful sliders together!