BBQ Chicken Sliders
BBQ Chicken Sliders are the perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. These delicious sliders feature tender BBQ chicken, gooey Gouda cheese, and sweet Hawaiian rolls, all topped with fresh onion and cilantro. Brushed with garlic-herb butter, they bake to a golden perfection that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a casual dinner with friends, these sliders are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of BBQ chicken and melty cheese is irresistible and satisfying for everyone.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the toppings or substitute ingredients based on your preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, these sliders fit right in.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sliders in advance and bake them just before serving for fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness.
Tools and Preparation
To make your BBQ Chicken Sliders efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Sharp serrated knife
- 9×13-inch sheet pan
- Medium mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting butter)
- Pastry brush or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Sharp serrated knife: This tool ensures clean cuts through the soft Hawaiian rolls without squishing them.
- 9×13-inch sheet pan: Perfect size to hold all 12 sliders together while baking for even cooking.
- Medium mixing bowl: Needed to mix the BBQ chicken and sauce thoroughly without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 12 Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or chopped)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 (8-ounce) package thinly sliced Gouda cheese (or sharp Cheddar)
- 1/3 cup finely diced red onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro (optional)
- 4 tablespoons garlic-herb butter
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Generously grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half, keeping them together as one top slab and one bottom slab. Place the bottom slab of rolls in the prepared pan.
Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded or chopped chicken with BBQ sauce. Stir until all the chicken is well-coated in sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Layer half of the cheese onto the bottom slab of rolls. Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over this layer. If desired, sprinkle finely diced red onion and chopped cilantro on top of the chicken. Then add the remaining cheese over everything before placing the top slab of rolls back on.
Step 4: Add Garlic-Herb Butter
Melt garlic-herb butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Slowly pour it over the top of the assembled sliders. Use a pastry brush or spatula to evenly spread melted butter across both tops and sides of the rolls, allowing some butter to pool at the bottom for extra crispiness. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly over top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover your sliders with foil and bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove foil and continue baking for an additional 3–6 minutes until cheese is fully melted and tops are golden brown.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Remove from oven and serve hot! These sliders are best enjoyed right out of the oven as they may become soggy if left out too long.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sliders
BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering. Their delicious combination of flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your slider experience.
Pair with Dipping Sauces
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy dip that complements the smoky BBQ flavor.
- Honey Mustard: Adds a sweet and tangy twist that balances the richness of the sliders.
- Extra BBQ Sauce: For those who love more sauce, serve with a side for dipping.
Add Fresh Sides
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing side that provides a nice contrast to the warm sliders.
- Pickles: Serve sliced dill pickles on the side to add a tangy crunch.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, sweet option that cleanses the palate between bites.
Create a Slider Platter
- Mixed Veggies: Include carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper slices for a colorful platter.
- Chips and Salsa: Serve tortilla chips with fresh salsa for an added crunch and flavor burst.
Offer Beverages
- Lemonade: A refreshing drink that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
- Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened, it’s a great beverage choice for warming days.
How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Sliders
To make your BBQ Chicken Sliders even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use High-Quality BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce you love for the best flavor in your sliders.
- Don’t Overstuff: Keep layers manageable to prevent messy eating while still packing in flavor.
- Keep Them Warm: Serve immediately after baking for optimal texture and taste.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Gouda is fantastic, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added spice.
- Add More Toppings: Customize with jalapeños or avocado slices for extra flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Sliders
Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Chicken Sliders can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Potato Salad: Creamy and filling, potato salad adds heartiness to your meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and crunch that complements the sliders.
- Baked Beans: A classic side that offers rich flavors and pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing balances out the richness of the sliders.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This comfort food favorite makes any meal feel special and satisfying.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory sliders; bake or fry for variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making BBQ Chicken Sliders, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to be mindful of:
- Using dry chicken: Ensure your chicken is moist by using rotisserie chicken or adding enough BBQ sauce. This keeps the sliders juicy and flavorful.
- Not greasing the pan: Forgetting to grease the baking pan can cause the sliders to stick. Always use cooking spray or butter to prevent this issue.
- Skipping the garlic-herb butter: This adds essential flavor and helps achieve a crispy top. Don’t skip this step for the best results!
- Overbaking the sliders: Keep an eye on them to avoid dryness. Bake until golden brown, but remove them promptly once they reach that point.
- Ignoring toppings: Optional toppings like red onion and cilantro can elevate the taste. Experiment with different toppings for variety!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover BBQ Chicken Sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep any extra BBQ sauce on the side to maintain moisture.
Freezing BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake wrapped sliders for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds but be cautious, as this may make them soggy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed, avoiding excessive moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I make BBQ Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sliders in advance and store them unbaked in the fridge overnight before baking.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
A sweeter sauce complements the Hawaiian rolls nicely, but feel free to choose your favorite style!
How can I customize my BBQ Chicken Sliders?
You can add toppings like jalapeños or pickles for an extra kick or experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack.
Are these sliders suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They are perfect for meal prep as they can be stored and reheated easily throughout the week.
What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful combination of flavors that make them perfect for gatherings or simple family dinners. With their juicy filling and customizable toppings, these sliders suit various tastes. Give this recipe a try and explore your own variations!
BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 36 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
Description
BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or casual get-together. These sliders combine tender, shredded BBQ chicken with gooey Gouda cheese, all nestled between sweet Hawaiian rolls. Topped with fresh red onion and cilantro, and brushed with savory garlic-herb butter, these sliders bake to golden perfection, leaving everyone yearning for more. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a relaxed dinner with friends, this easy recipe guarantees delicious bites that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 ounces Gouda cheese (thinly sliced)
- 1/3 cup finely diced red onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
- 4 tablespoons garlic-herb butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half and place the bottom slab in the pan.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well-coated.
- Layer half of the cheese on the bottom slab, followed by the BBQ chicken mixture and optional toppings; finish with the remaining cheese and top slab of rolls.
- Melt garlic-herb butter and brush it over the assembled sliders. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 3–6 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve hot for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 26 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
