BBQ Chicken Sliders

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 7 hours
🍽 Serves: 12
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These BBQ Chicken Sliders are a game-changer for any gathering, combining tender, flavorful chicken and tangy coleslaw in a perfectly sized bun. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor party, these sliders are sure to please your guests with their rich, savory taste and satisfying texture.

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Sliders

The star of the show is, of course, the chicken breasts. They become incredibly tender after slow cooking, absorbing all the flavor of the sauce. The barbecue sauce infuses the chicken with a smoky, sweet flavor, acting as both a cooking liquid and a final glaze.

The coleslaw mix adds a crunchy contrast to the soft chicken and buns, while the mayonnaise creates a creamy base for the slaw. A touch of apple cider vinegar brings the tanginess needed to balance the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. Honey complements the vinegar with a hint of natural sweetness, and a pinch of salt and black pepper seasons the slaw perfectly.

Finally, the slider buns are the vehicle that brings it all together, providing a soft, pillowy texture that holds the filling without overpowering it.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the barbecue sauce for a subtle kick.
  • Make the coleslaw a few hours ahead and let it chill in the fridge. This enhances the flavor and makes assembly quicker.
  • Use leftover chicken in wraps or salads for a quick meal the next day.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh corn salad. If you're feeling adventurous, serve them with a zesty pickle on the side to add an extra layer of flavor. For drinks, consider a crisp, cold lemonade or a light beer to complement the rich barbecue flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will work perfectly and may even be more flavorful due to their higher fat content.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free slider buns and ensure your barbecue sauce is gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can cook and shred the chicken ahead of time, then reheat it gently in the slow cooker before serving.

BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe Walkthrough

Start by placing the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Pour the barbecue sauce directly over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This step is crucial because the sauce will not only add flavor but also keep the chicken moist as it cooks.

Set your slow cooker to the low setting and let it do its magic for about 6 to 7 hours. You'll know it's ready when the chicken is so tender that it falls apart with just a little nudge from your fork.

Once done, take the chicken out of the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. This part is oddly satisfying, as the chicken comes apart easily. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce in the slow cooker to soak up even more flavor while you prepare the coleslaw.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is fully incorporated. You want the slaw to be well-coated but not drowning in dressing.

Toast your slider buns to your preference; a light toast will give them a nice texture without making them too crunchy. Now, start assembling your sliders by placing a generous scoop of shredded BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun.

Top each with a dollop of the prepared coleslaw, then cap it with the other half of the bun. Your sliders are ready to serve immediately. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures with every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless preparation thanks to the slow cooker.
  • Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal hassle.
  • Balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
  • Great make-ahead option for busy days.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless chicken breasts
2 cups barbecue sauce
1 cup coleslaw mix
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
12 slider buns

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker and pour barbecue sauce over them.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender and can be easily shredded.
3. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred with two forks, and return to the sauce.
4. In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Toast the slider buns to your liking.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a generous amount of shredded BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
7. Top with a dollop of coleslaw and place the other half of the bun on top.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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