Why You’ll Love This Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines flavor, comfort, and fun, this Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe is just what you need! The tender, juicy chicken is smothered in a rich BBQ sauce, creating a delightful blend of sweet and smoky flavors. Topped with gooey cheese and served on soft slider buns, these sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings. They’re easy to make and sure to please a crowd, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion!
What You’ll Need for Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders. Here’s what you’ll need:
Complete Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for coleslaw dressing)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for coleslaw dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for cooking)
- Pickles – for topping (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives
- For a healthier option, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Swap BBQ sauce for a homemade version or a different flavor, like teriyaki.
- Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan alternative.
- Gluten-free buns can be used for those with dietary restrictions.
- Feel free to customize the coleslaw with additional ingredients like shredded carrots or chopped green onions for added crunch and flavor.
How to Make Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Making these sliders is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Coleslaw
In a medium bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the coleslaw is evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, add the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and heat through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the sauce and heated evenly.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While the chicken is heating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Slice the slider buns in half. On the bottom half of each bun, add a generous portion of the BBQ pulled chicken. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Sliders
Place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet. Brush the tops of the buns lightly with olive oil for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.
Step 6: Add Coleslaw and Pickles
Once the sliders are out of the oven, add a spoonful of coleslaw on top of the melted cheese, followed by pickles if desired. Place the top half of the buns on each slider.
Step 7: Serve
Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve warm. These cheesy BBQ pulled chicken sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
These sliders are best served warm. Here’s how to present them:
How to Serve Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Slice the sliders in half for easy serving. You can place them on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. Consider adding a side of pickles or coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
These sliders pair wonderfully with potato chips, fries, or a fresh salad. For toppings, consider adding sliced jalapeños, coleslaw, or extra BBQ sauce for those who love a little kick!
Storing & Preserving Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
To keep your sliders fresh, follow these storage tips:
Best Storage Methods
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days.
Reheating or Freezing Tips
To reheat, simply place the sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. If you want to freeze them, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders Every Time
Want to ensure your sliders turn out amazing? Here are some tips:
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.
- Make sure to shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling.
Helpful Tricks for Success
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
Fun Variations of Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Get creative with these fun variations:
Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists
- Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Mix in some cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
Dietary-Friendly Adjustments
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free buns.
- For a low-carb option, serve the BBQ chicken in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
FAQs
What If My Cheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders Don’t Turn Out Right?
If your sliders don’t turn out as expected, don’t worry! Check if the chicken was cooked properly and ensure you used enough BBQ sauce for flavor.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce a day ahead. Just assemble and bake the sliders when you’re ready to serve.
What Ingredients Can I Swap?
You can swap chicken for shredded beef or turkey. Also, feel free to use different types of cheese or BBQ sauce to suit your taste!
PrintCheesy BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious recipe for cheesy BBQ pulled chicken sliders, perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for coleslaw dressing)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for coleslaw dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Pickles (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the coleslaw by combining coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix well and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and heat through for about 5-7 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider buns in half and add a generous portion of BBQ pulled chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet, brush the tops with olive oil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.
- Add a spoonful of coleslaw on top of the melted cheese and pickles if desired. Place the top half of the buns on each slider.
- Serve warm on a platter.
☀️ Best Summer Kitchen Deals
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
- For freezing, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: BBQ, chicken, sliders, cheesy, party food