BBQ Chicken Sliders
BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner. These sliders feature tender BBQ chicken, deliciously gooey Gouda cheese, and sweet Hawaiian rolls that create a delightful balance of flavors. Topped with fresh onion and cilantro and brushed with savory garlic-herb butter, they come out of the oven golden and crispy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a weekend meal at home, these sliders will surely impress your guests with their irresistible taste and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these BBQ Chicken Sliders in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ chicken and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party snack, these sliders are versatile enough to suit any event.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or switch up the cheese for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Ideal for Leftovers: If there are any leftovers (which is rare!), they reheat well for an easy meal later.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes all the difference when preparing BBQ Chicken Sliders.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet (9×13 inches)
- Sharp serrated knife
- Medium mixing bowl
- Pastry brush or spatula
- Microwave-safe container
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: This allows you to bake all your sliders at once, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Sharp serrated knife: A must-have for slicing through soft Hawaiian rolls without squishing them.
- Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients like shredded chicken and BBQ sauce effortlessly.
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 baking sheet. Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half, keeping them attached as one top and one bottom slab. Place the bottom slab of rolls into the prepared pan.
Step 2: Mix Chicken and BBQ Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded or chopped chicken with BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Layer half of the cheese onto the bottom slab of rolls. Next, spread out the saucy chicken mixture evenly over the cheese. If desired, sprinkle on finely diced red onion and chopped cilantro for added flavor. Finally, place the remaining cheese on top before covering with the top slab of rolls.
Step 4: Add Garlic-Herb Butter
Melt garlic-herb butter in a microwave-safe container. Once melted, slowly pour it over the assembled sliders. Use a pastry brush or spatula to spread it evenly across the tops and sides of the rolls. Allow some butter to pool at the bottom; this will help make them crispy! If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over top now.
Step 5: Bake Your Sliders
Cover your sliders with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 3–6 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and tops are golden brown.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Remove from oven and serve hot! These sliders are best enjoyed fresh from the oven as they can become soggy if left out too long.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sliders
BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful dish perfect for gatherings, game days, or casual family dinners. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
With a Crunchy Side Salad
- A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the sliders perfectly.
As Part of a Buffet Spread
- Include BBQ Chicken Sliders in a buffet with an array of appetizers, making them easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
Accompanied by Dipping Sauces
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing on the side for dipping, adding layers of flavor to each bite.
With Pickles and Chips
- Offer crunchy pickles and potato chips for added texture. The acidity from the pickles balances the sweetness of the sliders.
Paired with Fruit Skewers
- Fresh fruit skewers provide a refreshing contrast to the savory sliders, making for a well-rounded plate.
How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Sliders
To ensure your BBQ Chicken Sliders turn out delicious every time, here are some essential tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality chicken will enhance flavor significantly.
- Don’t skip the butter: Brushing garlic-herb butter over the rolls adds richness and keeps them crispy.
- Layer wisely: Proper layering of chicken and cheese prevents sogginess while ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Serve immediately: These sliders taste best fresh from the oven; they can become soggy if left too long.
- Experiment with cheeses: While Gouda is great, try using different cheeses like sharp Cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Sliders
Serving side dishes with your BBQ Chicken Sliders can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and tang that complements the savory sliders.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter is sweet and pairs well with BBQ flavors.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans offer comfort alongside your sliders.
- Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad provides a cool contrast to the warm sliders.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch that balance the BBQ chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making BBQ Chicken Sliders, a few common mistakes can affect the taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your sliders turn out perfectly.
- Overloading on BBQ sauce: While BBQ sauce adds flavor, too much can make the sliders soggy. Use just enough to coat the chicken without drowning it.
- Ignoring the cheese: Cheese is crucial for binding flavors and adding creaminess. Be sure to layer enough cheese for a gooey texture.
- Skipping the garlic-herb butter: This butter adds flavor and crispiness to the rolls. Don’t forget to brush it generously over the top before baking!
- Not covering while baking: Covering with foil prevents the tops from browning too quickly while ensuring even cooking. Remove it only towards the end of baking for that golden finish.
- Serving cold: BBQ Chicken Sliders are best served warm right out of the oven. If they sit too long, they can become soggy and lose their appeal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat within this timeframe for optimal taste and texture.
Freezing BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil, heating for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual sliders on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Watch carefully to avoid sogginess.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes, ensuring they stay moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about BBQ Chicken Sliders that you might find helpful.
Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes! You can use any cooked chicken, such as grilled or baked. Rotisserie chicken works great due to its flavor and ease of preparation.
What are some good toppings for BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Consider adding coleslaw, pickles, or jalapeños for extra crunch and flavor. Customize them based on your preferences!
How do I make these sliders healthier?
You can use whole grain rolls or low-sugar BBQ sauce. Adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers can also boost nutrition.
Can I prepare BBQ Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them earlier in the day and bake them just before serving, keeping them fresh and warm.
What should I serve with BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Pair these sliders with chips, a fresh salad, or vegetable sticks for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with various toppings or sides to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s perfect for game days, parties, or family dinners!
BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 41 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
Description
BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate comfort food that combines tender, flavorful BBQ chicken with melty Gouda cheese, all nestled in sweet Hawaiian rolls. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a game day celebration or a cozy family dinner. Each slider is brushed with savory garlic-herb butter and topped with fresh onion and cilantro for a burst of flavor. With just 15 minutes of prep time, these sliders are not only delicious but also a quick solution for those unexpected guests. Impress your friends and family with this irresistible recipe that promises to be a hit at your next event!
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 ounces Gouda cheese (thinly sliced)
- 1/3 cup red onion (finely diced, optional)
- 2 tablespoons cilantro (finely chopped, optional)
- 4 tablespoons garlic-herb butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a baking sheet.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half, keeping them connected, and place the bottom half in the prepared pan.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well-coated.
- Layer half of the cheese on the bottom rolls, add the BBQ chicken mixture, then top with remaining cheese and cover with the top half of rolls.
- Melt garlic-herb butter and brush over the assembled sliders. Optionally sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake covered with foil for 20 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 3–6 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 26 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
