There’s nothing quite like the smell of BBQ wafting through the air, especially when a casual gathering is on the horizon. Just last week, I whipped up these BBQ pulled chicken sliders for a backyard get-together, and the excitement was palpable as everyone gathered around the table. These sliders, bursting with tender, flavorful chicken and topped with tangy coleslaw, not only satisfied every taste bud but also sparked conversations and laughter among friends and family.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity—perfect for weeknight dinners or those spontaneous gatherings when you crave something hearty without the fuss. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can serve up a dish that feels like a big hug on a plate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone looking to escape the fast-food rut, these BBQ pulled chicken sliders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser sure to elevate any occasion. Join me in making these delightful bites, and get ready to impress your loved ones!
Why will you love BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders?
Irresistible Taste: The mix of tender pulled chicken tossed in rich BBQ sauce creates a flavor that’s barbecue perfection.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have delicious sliders ready for serving.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for parties, these sliders are a hit that ignites smiles and compliments from guests.
Customizable Options: Mix in your favorite toppings, like spicy jalapeños or creamy coleslaw, to make each slider unique.
Time-Saving Solution: Ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, these sliders require minimal effort without sacrificing taste.
Comfort Food Classic: Whether you’re hosting family or friends, BBQ pulled chicken sliders are a comforting and satisfying staple that never disappoints.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders Ingredients
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For the Chicken
• Boneless Chicken Thighs – Ideal for a juicy, flavorful base; you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
• BBQ Sauce – Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a tailored taste; it’s the secret to the deliciousness of these BBQ pulled chicken sliders.
• Chicken Broth – Keeps the chicken moist while cooking; using low-sodium broth helps to control the saltiness. -
For the Sliders
• Slider Buns – Soft and fluffy buns are perfect for holding the pulled chicken; whole grain options add a nutritious twist.
• Coleslaw – Adds a crunchy, tangy topping; you can use store-bought coleslaw mix or whip up a quick homemade version for freshness. -
Optional Toppings
• Pickles – A tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich BBQ flavors; dill pickles are a popular choice.
• Jalapeños – For those who like some heat, these add a spicy kick that elevates the sliders.
• Cheese – A slice of cheddar or pepper jack can enhance creaminess and flavor; just melt it atop the pulled chicken for a delicious touch.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving comfort food, these BBQ pulled chicken sliders are sure to be a hit!
How to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
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Prepare Chicken: Place the boneless chicken thighs in a slow cooker. Pour your favorite BBQ sauce and chicken broth over the top. Make sure all the chicken is coated nicely.
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Cook Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen!
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Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded chicken back into the warm BBQ sauce in the slow cooker for extra flavor.
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Toast Buns: If desired, lightly toast the slider buns on a skillet or in the oven until golden brown. This will add a delightful crunch!
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Assemble Sliders: Layer the pulled BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with a generous amount of coleslaw and any extra toppings like pickles or jalapeños.
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Serve & Enjoy: Place the top buns on each slider and serve warm. Gather around the table and watch them disappear!
Optional: Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Flavorful BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders Variations
Feel free to get creative with your sliders and add your own personal touch to make them even tastier!
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Smoky BBQ:
Replace your regular BBQ sauce with a smoked variety for a bold, deep flavor that enhances the richness of the chicken. -
Honey BBQ Twist:
Mix a bit of honey into your BBQ sauce for a touch of sweetness that complements the smoky flavors perfectly. -
Sweet & Spicy:
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for an exciting spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds. -
Creamy Slaw:
Instead of traditional coleslaw, stir in some ranch dressing into the mix for a creamy, zesty topping that balances the BBQ flavors. -
Vegetarian Delight:
Swap out the chicken with jackfruit simmered in BBQ sauce for a delicious plant-based version that everyone will enjoy. -
Global Flair:
Infuse your pulled chicken with chipotle powder or adobo sauce for a smoky, Mexican-inspired flavor that ignites the senses. -
Crunchy Toppings:
Top your sliders with crispy onion rings or shredded carrots for an added layer of texture and deliciousness that everyone loves. -
Gourmet Option:
Add a slice of creamy blue cheese or avocado on top for a decadent twist that elevates your sliders to gourmet status.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy cooks! You can prepare the shredded BBQ chicken up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the chicken in your slow cooker as directed, shred it, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method keeps the chicken tender and flavorful. On the day you plan to serve, reheat the chicken on low heat in the slow cooker or a saucepan. While the chicken warms, toast your slider buns for a delightful crunch before assembling. Your sliders will taste just as delicious as freshly made, saving you time while keeping the flavors intact!
What to Serve with BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders?
Elevate your BBQ feast with delightful sides that enhance the enjoyment of these savory sliders.
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Tangy Coleslaw: A crisp, refreshing counterpart to the rich pulled chicken, it adds a crunchy texture and bright flavor. The sweetness of the coleslaw perfectly balances the smoky BBQ taste, making every bite delightful.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, these fries offer a satisfying crunch and a hint of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with BBQ. Serve them alongside for a delightful contrast against the savory sliders.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it’s a classic side that adds a burst of sweetness and is perfect for summer gatherings. Brushing it with a little butter and sprinkling with salt makes it irresistible!
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Baked Beans: Hearty and flavorful, they’re a traditional BBQ companion that’s comforting and satisfying. Their rich, smoky flavor complements the sliders while adding a protein punch.
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Pickles and Jalapeños: Serve these on the side for those craving extra acidity or heat. The tangy crunch of pickles or the spicy bite of jalapeños enhance the sliders’ flavor profile remarkably.
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Watermelon Salad: A refreshing and juicy salad adds a vibrant look to your table. Tossing watermelon with mint and feta brings a delightful contrast to the flavors, cooling the palate after every rich bite.
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Chips and Dip: Offer a variety of dips like guacamole or salsa with tortilla chips for a fun, shareable side. These snacks lighten the meal while keeping the good vibes flowing during gatherings.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink, with its zesty kick, complements the BBQ flavors perfectly! Serve it chilled for a thirst-quenching treat that both kids and adults will love.
Expert Tips for BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
- Use Thighs: Opt for boneless chicken thighs for a juicier texture; they hold up well during cooking compared to chicken breasts.
- Choose BBQ Wisely: Pick a BBQ sauce that balances sweetness and tang. Experiment with homemade versions for unique flavors!
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low for the full time in the slow cooker ensures tender, flavorful chicken that shreds easily for your BBQ pulled chicken sliders.
- Toast for Texture: Lightly toasting the slider buns adds a delightful crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy from the pulled chicken.
- Don’t Skimp on Toppings: Boost the flavor of your sliders with toppings like coleslaw and pickles; they complement the BBQ beautifully and add freshness.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your delicious BBQ pulled chicken sliders fresh and ready for quick meals.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pulled chicken in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best flavor and texture.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Serve on fresh buns for an easy meal!
- Bun Storage: Keep slider buns in a cool, dry place in their original packaging for up to 5 days. If freezing, wrap them individually to prevent freezer burn and thaw as needed.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my sliders?
Absolutely! For juicy and flavorful sliders, I always recommend using boneless chicken thighs. They hold up well in cooking and stay moist. If you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken breasts are a good alternative, but they can be a bit drier.
What’s the best way to store leftover pulled chicken?
Very simple! Store any leftover BBQ pulled chicken sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals on busy nights. If you’re storing just the pulled chicken, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze the sliders with the buns?
You can! If you want to freeze your BBQ pulled chicken sliders, I recommend freezing the pulled chicken separately from the buns. Wrap the chicken in a sealed bag to prevent moisture loss and store it in the freezer. Bun storage is easy too—just keep them in their original packaging or wrap them individually to avoid freezer burn!
What if my chicken isn’t shredding easily?
No worries! If your pulled chicken isn’t shredding easily, it might need a bit more cooking. Ensure it’s cooked through and tender—if needed, let it cook for another 30 minutes to an hour on low in your slow cooker. Once it’s tender, it should shred with minimal effort using two forks.
Can I make these sliders healthier?
Absolutely! To make your BBQ pulled chicken sliders healthier, consider using whole grain slider buns for added fiber, and use a sugar-free BBQ sauce. You can also pile on more veggies in the form of coleslaw or extra toppings like avocado or fresh spinach. This way, you can enjoy your sliders while keeping it nutritious!
What toppings work best for BBQ pulled chicken sliders?
The more the merrier! Besides the classic coleslaw, you can mix in jalapeños for a kick, layers of spicy pickles, or even cheese like cheddar or pepper jack that you can melt over the chicken for an indulgent twist. Get creative—you can even add pineapple for a sweet-tangy flavor!
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders That Steal the Show at Any Party
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the boneless chicken thighs in a slow cooker. Pour your favorite BBQ sauce and chicken broth over the top. Make sure all the chicken is coated nicely.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded chicken back into the warm BBQ sauce.
- If desired, lightly toast the slider buns on a skillet or in the oven until golden brown.
- Layer the pulled BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with coleslaw and any extra toppings.
- Place the top buns on each slider and serve warm.