Name: BBQ Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 slider buns; 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce, divided; 1/2 cup cooked red onion, thinly sliced; 7 ounces thinly sliced smoked gouda; 1 tablespoon butter, melted; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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BBQ Chicken Sliders

BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful treat that can turn any get-together into a memorable feast. These mini sandwiches are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a perfect addition to game day, summer barbecues, or casual weeknight dinners.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating your own BBQ Chicken Sliders at home is not only fun, but it also allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste. The combination of shredded chicken mixed with tangy barbecue sauce, sautéed onions, and melted smoked gouda is simply irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just a few friends, these sliders are guaranteed to impress. Plus, they’re straightforward to make, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your company!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders

Before diving into the succulent details, let’s check out the ingredients you’ll need to whip up these scrumptious BBQ Chicken Sliders.

Ingredients:

12 slider buns
1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
1/2 cup cooked red onion, thinly sliced
7 ounces thinly sliced smoked gouda
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

Before beginning the recipe, cook the 1 pound of chicken and shred it to your desired texture. Next, thinly slice the 1/2 cup of red onion and sauté it using a small non-stick skillet until the onions are soft and translucent. The goal is to cook the onion until it no longer has the raw, hard texture. Once these steps are complete, set aside.

In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the prepared shredded chicken and 1 cup barbecue sauce until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.

Top a sheet pan with the bottom half of the 12 slider buns. You can separate the slider buns or leave them connected together; either is fine. Spread the BBQ chicken evenly over each slider bun.

Drizzle 1/2 cup barbecue sauce over each bun. The sauce really gives this recipe all the flavor, so don’t be afraid to use more if desired. The messier the better; it is BBQ after all!

Evenly layer the prepared red onion slices on top of the drizzled sauce.

Top the red onion with an even layer of the 7 ounces of thinly sliced smoked gouda cheese.

Add the top of the slider buns, cover the sheet pan with aluminum foil, and bake in the oven at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes. While the chicken BBQ sliders are cooking in the oven, whisk together the 1 tablespoon butter, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon parsley.

Remove the sliders from the oven, take off the foil, and brush the top of each slider with the butter mixture. Place the sliders back into the oven to bake uncovered for 5 additional minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve warm. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success with BBQ Chicken Sliders

Prep Ahead: You can cook and shred the chicken a day in advance. This will save time when you’re ready to assemble and bake your sliders.
Use High-Quality BBQ Sauce: The flavor of the BBQ sauce makes a huge difference in this recipe. Choose a sauce that you love, or try making your own for a unique twist.
Add More Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add extra gouda or mix in some mozzarella for a different taste and texture.
Sauté the Onions Longer: For a sweeter flavor, sauté the onions until they caramelize—this will add a delightful depth to your sliders.
Don’t Overload the Buns: While these sliders are delicious, avoid the temptation to overfill them with chicken and toppings, as it may make them tough to eat!
Experiment with Spices: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.

Flavor Variations for BBQ Chicken Sliders

Spicy BBQ Chicken Sliders: Mix in diced jalapeños or add hot sauce to your BBQ sauce for a spicy twist.
Tropical BBQ Chicken Sliders: Add slices of pineapple on top of the chicken before adding the cheese for a refreshing tropical flavor.
Mediterranean Twist: Swap out the gouda for feta cheese and add olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
Southwest BBQ Chicken Sliders: Mix in diced bell peppers and corn, and swap out the gouda for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty southwest version.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute shredded chicken with jackfruit or a hearty blend of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and other vegetables for a plant-based version.

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Sliders

BBQ Chicken Sliders are versatile and can be enjoyed with various side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the richness of BBQ chicken sliders.
Potato Wedges: Crispy baked or fried potato wedges make an ideal side for a hearty meal.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob adds a flavorful touch to your BBQ feast.
Chips and Dip: Serve with a bowl of chips and your favorite dip, like guacamole or a spicy queso.
Pickles: Adding a side of pickles will give a nice crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the sliders.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for BBQ Chicken Sliders

For any leftover BBQ Chicken Sliders, you have a couple of options for storage:

Refrigerator: Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, you can reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the sliders, it’s best to freeze the chicken mixture separately from the buns. Wrap the shredded BBQ chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, reheat the chicken, and assemble fresh sliders.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 640mg

FAQ About BBQ Chicken Sliders

Can I use a different type of bread for these sliders?

Absolutely! While traditional slider buns are a favorite, you can use various types of bread such as Hawaiian rolls for a sweet twist, or even whole wheat for a healthier option. Feel free to experiment with what sounds best to you!

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make BBQ Chicken Sliders gluten-free, simply swap out the slider buns for gluten-free buns. Additionally, ensure that your barbecue sauce is also gluten-free by checking the label or making your own at home.

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sliders ahead! Assemble them, cover tightly with foil, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake them, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

What type of chicken should I use?

You can use any cooked chicken, but rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option since it’s already seasoned and saves time. Just shred the chicken when you get home to whip up the sliders quickly.

Are BBQ Chicken Sliders kid-friendly?

Definitely! These sliders tend to be a hit with kids due to their small size and delicious flavors. Plus, you can adjust the spiciness of the barbecue sauce to suit the younger crowd.

How can I make these sliders healthier?

For a healthier twist, you can use whole-grain slider buns, reduce the amount of barbecue sauce, or opt for a low-sugar sauce. Additionally, you can add more veggies like spinach or arugula for extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Sliders are a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe perfect for any gathering or casual dinner with friends and family. With layers of tender chicken coated in barbecue sauce, paired with the sweetness of sautéed onions and the creamy richness of smoked gouda, these sliders are sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and serving them alongside your favorite sides to elevate your next meal. Happy cooking!

BBQ Chicken Sliders