If you’re looking for a finger-licking, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together smoky, savory BBQ with a refreshing crunch, then this BBQ Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw Recipe is exactly what you need. These mini sandwiches combine tender, juicy shredded chicken bathed in rich barbecue sauce with a tangy, creamy coleslaw that adds the perfect balance in both flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a game day party, or just craving a quick but satisfying meal, these sliders are guaranteed to delight and keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This BBQ Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw Recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that work in harmony to create a delightful taste experience. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the smoky spices seasoning the chicken to the crisp vegetables in the coleslaw that add freshness and color.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up all the BBQ flavor.
- BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own for that signature tangy, sweet, and smoky kick.
- Olive oil: Helps the spices adhere to the chicken and adds a subtle richness.
- Garlic powder: Boosts the savory notes in the seasoning.
- Onion powder: Adds depth and a gentle pungency to the chicken.
- Smoked paprika: Brings that irresistible smoky aroma without the grill.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to brighten and balance the flavors.
- Slider buns: Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients without falling apart.
- Coleslaw mix: A colorful medley of shredded cabbage and carrots for crunchiness.
- Mayonnaise: Gives the coleslaw a luxuriously creamy texture.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a crisp tang that cuts through the richness.
- Sugar: Balances acidity and brings out natural sweetness.
- Pickle slices (optional): For an extra zesty kick and a complementary texture contrast.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), the ideal temperature for gently cooking the chicken so it stays juicy. While waiting, pat the chicken breasts dry and rub them with olive oil to lock in moisture. Then, sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken. These spices build layers of flavor that will shine through once cooked.
Step 2: Coat and Bake the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and generously slather them with BBQ sauce. Every bite should be infused with that familiar, smoky-sweet goodness. Covering the chicken fully with sauce ensures it doesn’t dry out. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This cooking time keeps the chicken tender and perfectly cooked.
Step 3: Whip Up the Coleslaw
While the chicken bakes, mix together your coleslaw with the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing creates a refreshing, tangy coating that contrasts beautifully against the rich BBQ chicken. Toss everything well and set aside to let the flavors meld while you finish cooking the chicken.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Assemble Your Sliders
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest just a few minutes so it’s easier to shred. Using two forks, pull apart the meat into tender shreds that will pile nicely onto your buns. If you like, lightly toast the slider buns to add a little crunch and prevent sogginess. To build your sliders, layer a generous scoop of shredded chicken on the bottom half of each bun, top with a spoonful of the creamy coleslaw, and add a pickle slice for that extra zing. Finish with the top bun and get ready for the ultimate bite-sized delight.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
A little garnish goes a long way in elevating these sliders. Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley adds a burst of green and a fresh note that brightens each bite. If you love a bit of heat, consider drizzling a mild hot sauce or adding thin slices of jalapeño for a spicy surprise. Pickle slices, as mentioned, bring a pleasant briny crunch that wakes up the palate.
Side Dishes
Pair your BBQ Chicken Sliders with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries or a chilled cucumber salad for a cooling contrast. Baked beans or corn on the cob are also fantastic accompaniments that keep the meal fun and casual. These sides complement the sliders without overpowering their rich and tangy flavor profile.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your sliders the star of the show by serving them on a wooden tray with parchment paper to catch any drips. Stack them closely for a visual feast, and provide toothpicks for easy handling. You can also separate sliders with mini flags or labels if serving at a larger party, making it a playful and inviting setup everyone will appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, tuck them into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. Keep the coleslaw separate from the chicken to prevent sogginess and retain its fresh crunch. This way, every slider bite still tastes as vibrant as the first.
Freezing
Feel free to freeze the shredded BBQ chicken before assembling the sliders. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to two months. The coleslaw does not freeze well, so prepare it fresh when you’re ready to reheat and serve the chicken.
Reheating
Reheat the frozen or refrigerated shredded chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist. Avoid overheating, which can dry out the meat. Once warmed, assemble your sliders with freshly dressed coleslaw for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of baking chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken can save time and still provide deliciously tender meat for these sliders. Just shred it and mix with BBQ sauce before assembling.
What type of BBQ sauce works best for this recipe?
Choose a BBQ sauce that you love, whether it’s sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy. Since the sauce coats the chicken, it really sets the flavor tone, so pick one that matches your preference.
Is there a way to make the coleslaw healthier?
Yes, you can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or use a lighter dressing with lemon juice and olive oil for fewer calories, though it will have a different texture and taste.
Can these sliders be made gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply use gluten-free slider buns or serve the shredded chicken and coleslaw on gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for a tasty alternative.
How long do the sliders stay fresh once assembled?
It’s best to assemble and serve the sliders immediately to keep the buns from getting soggy. However, if you must store them assembled, keep them in the fridge for no more than a few hours.
Final Thoughts
These BBQ Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw Recipe are a fantastic way to bring big flavor to a small package. They’re easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re a BBQ fanatic or just looking for a quick, delicious meal to brighten up your week, you really can’t go wrong with this recipe. So grab your ingredients and get ready to make something truly memorable!
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BBQ Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These BBQ Chicken Sliders are a perfect blend of tender, flavorful baked chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce, topped with a creamy homemade coleslaw. Served on soft slider buns, they make an ideal appetizer or casual meal that’s easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sliders and Toppings
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the chicken to a juicy and tender finish.
- Season Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over them for rich flavor.
- Coat with BBQ Sauce: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish and cover with the BBQ sauce, ensuring all pieces are well coated to infuse flavor as they bake.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
- Prepare Coleslaw: While the chicken bakes, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside to let flavors meld.
- Shred Chicken: After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, perfect for assembling sliders.
- Toast Buns: Lightly toast the slider buns if preferred, to add a slight crunch and warmth.
- Assemble Sliders: Place a generous portion of shredded BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with a spoonful of the prepared coleslaw and add a pickle slice if you like.
- Serve: Finish by placing the top half of the bun onto each slider. Serve immediately for the best taste and enjoyment.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
- Coleslaw can be prepared a few hours in advance to enhance its flavor.
- Slider buns can be substituted with mini brioche buns for a richer taste.
- Leftover shredded chicken works great for salads or sandwiches the next day.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free slider buns.
