Juicy Barbecue Chicken Sliders

Name: Juicy Barbecue Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 sliders
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 8 slider buns; 1 cup coleslaw (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking Recipes

I absolutely love whipping up these Juicy Barbecue Chicken Sliders for gatherings or a cozy night in. The tender chicken smothered in tangy barbecue sauce combined with soft slider buns makes for an irresistible treat. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, and the best part is how simple they are to make. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a fun barbecue with friends, these sliders are guaranteed crowd-pleasers that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:25:28.928Z

When I first made these Juicy Barbecue Chicken Sliders, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. I opted for shredded rotisserie chicken to save time and add incredible flavor. Mixing it with a quality barbecue sauce created a delicious, sticky coating that perfectly complemented the soft buns. My family couldn’t get enough!

I found that adding a sprinkle of coleslaw on top really enhanced each slider’s texture and flavor. The crunch from the slaw balances beautifully with the tender chicken. This is a tip I can’t recommend enough; it elevates the sliders to a whole new level!

Why You'll Love These Sliders
Tender chicken bursting with flavor from tangy barbecue sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile and customizable with various toppings

Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Using shredded cooked chicken is key to achieving the right texture for these sliders. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook chicken breasts in advance. If you're cooking from scratch, poach the chicken in seasoned water for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. After shredding, make sure it remains moist by mixing it thoroughly with the barbecue sauce; this will prevent the sliders from being dry.

Be cautious when heating the chicken and sauce mixture. It's important to maintain medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The goal is to warm it through rather than boil, converting your tender chicken into a juicy filling. Look for a glossy appearance in the sauce—this indicates that it's adequately coated and ready for assembling the sliders.

Customizing Your Sliders

These barbecue chicken sliders are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces to suit your palate—smoky, spicy, or even sweet varieties can change the flavor profile significantly. Additionally, you can swap the coleslaw for other toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or even fresh avocado slices for added creaminess and crunch.

If you're preparing these sliders for a crowd, consider setting up a slider bar where guests can assemble their own sliders. This allows for customization and makes the experience interactive. You can also prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it, making your final assembly quick and easy on the day of your gathering.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup barbecue sauce
8 slider buns
1 cup coleslaw (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Steps

Prepare the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken and barbecue sauce. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated.

Heat the Mixture

Transfer the chicken mixture to a saucepan and heat over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Assemble the Sliders

Slice the slider buns in half and place them on a serving platter. Spoon the barbecue chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.

Add Toppings

If desired, top the chicken with coleslaw and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Place the top half of the buns over the sliders.

Serve

Serve the sliders warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, try adding pickles or jalapeños to the sliders!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover barbecue chicken sliders, store the chicken mixture and buns separately to maintain freshness. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate; it should stay good for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes. You can also microwave a single portion for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it’s heated evenly.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken mixture. Portion it into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, which will preserve its texture and flavor more effectively than defrosting in the microwave.

Pairing Suggestions

These juicy barbecue chicken sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider classic accompaniments like potato chips or a fresh vegetable platter with your favorite dip. For a heartier option, homemade fries or sweet potato wedges add a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the sliders.

You can also elevate the experience with drinks that balance the rich flavors. A crisp coleslaw or tangy pickled vegetables can offer a refreshing contrast. For adults, a light beer or iced tea can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall enjoyment of this delicious dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, canned chicken is a convenient alternative. Just ensure to drain and shred it before mixing with the barbecue sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the sliders right before serving.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

These sliders go great with fries, potato salad, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.