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If you’re craving a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing treat that’s bursting with flavor, this BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender shredded chicken mingling with smoky bacon, crispy French fried onions, and melty cheddar cheese all tucked inside soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls—then baked to golden perfection with a buttery finish. Whether it’s for a game day, family dinner, or casual get-together, these sliders are guaranteed to vanish in a flash and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe lies in its simple, yet essential ingredients. Each plays a unique role to create layers of flavor and texture that come together in perfect harmony, from the savory chicken and bacon to the crispy onions and smooth melted cheese, all balanced by the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls and tangy BBQ sauce.
- Cooked chopped chicken (3 cups): The star protein, tender and ready to soak up all the BBQ goodness.
- Cooked chopped bacon (½ cup): Adds a smoky, salty crunch that complements the chicken beautifully.
- French fried onions (½ cup): Brings a crispy, flavorful texture that makes each bite exciting.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts perfectly to add a rich, creamy layer.
- BBQ sauce (1 cup): Provides that tangy, sweet, smoky kick everyone loves.
- Hawaiian rolls (1 package, 12 oz): Soft, slightly sweet buns that hold everything together in style.
- Melted butter (¼ cup): Brushed on top to create a golden, irresistible crust while baking.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating ensures that your sliders bake evenly and that the cheese melts just right while the rolls get perfectly toasted.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Combine the cooked chopped chicken, cooked bacon, French fried onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and BBQ sauce in a large bowl. This flavorful mixture is the heart of the sliders, blending smoky, tangy, creamy, and crispy elements into one irresistible filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Without separating the rolls, carefully slice the entire loaf horizontally. Place the bottom halves in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, making a cozy base for your filling. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom buns, then gently place the top halves of the rolls back on top. This layered approach ensures every bite delivers the perfect ratio of bun to delicious filling.
Step 4: Add the Butter and Bake
Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter—this step is what creates that gorgeous golden crust and adds a hint of rich flavor to the whole dish. Pop the sliders into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re golden brown and the cheese is gloriously melted.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Although these sliders are delicious as they are, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions can add a fresh pop of color and flavor. A few pickles on the side also bring delightful acidity that balances the richness of the filling.
Side Dishes
Pair these BBQ chicken sliders with classic sides such as coleslaw for crunch and tang, baked beans for a hearty touch, or even a crisp garden salad to freshen the palate. Each side dish complements the sliders and creates a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the sliders on a beautifully arranged platter layered with fresh lettuce or arugula so each bite has a bit of green. Adding little flags or toothpicks topped with cherry tomatoes or olives turns these sliders into party-ready appetizers. You can also arrange sliders in a circular pattern to transform them into a sharing “slider ring.”
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them intact if possible to preserve the delicate layers of filling and buns, which makes reheating easier and more enjoyable.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a longer period, wrap the assembled but unbaked sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the sliders at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is once again bubbly. This method keeps the rolls soft but slightly crisped on top, bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven experience.
FAQs
Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken for this BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly as it’s already cooked, moist, and flavorful, saving you prep time while enhancing the taste.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Choose your favorite BBQ sauce style—sweet, smoky, or tangy—to suit your taste. A thick, robust sauce blends better with the chicken and cheese without making the sliders soggy.
Is it possible to make these sliders vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken and bacon for plant-based alternatives or roasted vegetables and use a vegetarian-friendly BBQ sauce and cheese for a delicious meat-free version.
Can I prepare these sliders without baking?
Baking is essential here as it melts the cheese and crisps the tops, but if needed, you can assemble and serve as cold sliders for a picnic, just keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ.
How many servings does this BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe make?
This recipe makes about 12 sliders, perfect for sharing with family or a small crowd, ensuring everyone gets their fill of these irresistible bites.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and fun about diving into a batch of these BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe. They bring together a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that always light up the table and hearts alike. Next time you need a dish that’s effortless yet unforgettable, give these sliders a try—you’ll be thrilled by how quickly they disappear and how often you’ll want to make them again.
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Print
BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make BBQ Chicken Sliders featuring tender chicken mixed with smoky bacon, crispy French fried onions, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce, all layered on soft Hawaiian rolls and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for parties, game days, or a family dinner.
Ingredients
Slider Mixture
- 3 cups cooked chopped chicken
- ½ cup cooked chopped bacon
- ½ cup French fried onions
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Slider Assembly
- 1 (12-oz) package Hawaiian rolls
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking the sliders.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chopped chicken, cooked chopped bacon, French fried onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and BBQ sauce. Mix well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble Sliders: Without separating the rolls, slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls horizontally into top and bottom halves. Place the bottom half of the rolls flat in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the chicken and bacon mixture evenly over the bottom buns. Then place the top half of the rolls on top of the mixture, closing the sliders.
- Add Butter: Spoon the melted butter evenly over the top of the assembled sliders to help them brown and add richness.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the cheddar cheese has melted, ensuring the sliders are heated through and delicious.
Notes
- You can prepare the chicken mixture a day ahead and assemble just before baking.
- For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melt and taste.
- Brush a little extra melted butter on the edges after baking for added flavor.
- Great served with pickles or coleslaw on the side for added freshness.
