BBQ Chicken Sliders

BBQ Chicken Sliders are the perfect dish for any gathering, combining tender BBQ chicken with gooey Gouda cheese and soft Hawaiian rolls. These sliders are not only delicious but also versatile enough for game days, parties, or casual dinners. The garlic-herb butter gives them a crispy finish that makes each bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prep, making it a speedy option for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With flavors that appeal to everyone, BBQ Chicken Sliders are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the toppings and sauces to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Easy to Serve: Perfect for parties, these sliders can be cut into portions and served easily on a platter.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of BBQ chicken and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make these BBQ Chicken Sliders smoothly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp serrated knife
• 9×13-inch sheet pan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Pastry brush or spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp serrated knife: Helps cut through the Hawaiian rolls without squishing them.
• 9×13-inch sheet pan: Provides ample space for all sliders, ensuring they bake evenly.
• Pastry brush: Allows you to spread the garlic-herb butter evenly for that perfect crispy top.

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, 12 slices)
• 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 while keeping them as one top slab and one bottom slab. Place the bottom slab of rolls in the prepared pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the shredded or chopped chicken and BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated and saucy.

Step 3: Layer Your Ingredients

Layer half of the Gouda cheese onto the bottom slab of rolls. Next, add the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the cheese. If you’d like, sprinkle on finely diced red onion and chopped cilantro. Top with the remaining Gouda cheese before placing the top slab of rolls back on.

Step 4: Add Garlic-Herb Butter

Melt the garlic-herb butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Slowly pour it over the assembled sliders, using a pastry brush or spatula to spread it evenly across the tops and sides of all rolls. Allow some butter to pool at the bottom for extra crispiness! If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over everything.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your sliders with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 3–6 minutes until cheese is fully melted and rolls are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Once out of the oven, serve these delicious BBQ Chicken Sliders right away! They are best enjoyed fresh as they may become soggy if left too long.

Enjoy your irresistible BBQ Chicken Sliders!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sliders

BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for gatherings, game day, or a casual family dinner. They are easy to serve and can be paired with various sides and toppings to enhance their flavor.

With Extra BBQ Sauce

• Drizzle additional BBQ sauce over the top of the sliders before serving for a tangy kick.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh burst of flavor that complements the BBQ chicken.

Served with Pickles

• Add crunchy dill pickles on the side or inside the sliders for a tangy contrast to the sweet Hawaiian rolls.

Accompanied by Coleslaw

• Serve with a side of coleslaw for added crunch and creaminess, making every bite even more delicious.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Incorporate sliders into a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and meats for an appealing presentation at parties.

Pairing with Chips

• Offer potato chips or tortilla chips as a crispy side option that adds texture to your slider meal.

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How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Sliders

To achieve sliders that everyone will love, follow these helpful tips. Perfecting your BBQ Chicken Sliders makes them even more enjoyable!

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh ingredients like high-quality BBQ sauce and good cheese for the best flavor.

• Don’t Overstuff: Avoid overcrowding the sliders with too much filling; this keeps them from becoming soggy and hard to handle.

• Toast the Rolls: Lightly toast the Hawaiian rolls before assembling for extra texture and flavor.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese such as sharp cheddar or pepper jack for varying flavors in your sliders.

• Serve Immediately: These sliders are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Sliders

Pairing sides with your BBQ Chicken Sliders can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad provides a refreshing balance to the savory sliders.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob adds a seasonal touch that complements barbecue flavors beautifully.
3. Baked Beans: Rich and hearty baked beans are classic companions that enhance any barbecue meal.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs perfectly with tender chicken.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers sweetness and freshness, balancing out rich flavors from the sliders.
6. Garden Salad: A simple garden salad adds crispness and freshness that contrasts nicely with the sliders’ richness.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful sweetness that matches well with BBQ chicken.
8. Coleslaw: This classic side dish offers crunch and creaminess, making it an ideal companion to your flavorful sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Chicken Sliders, a few common pitfalls can affect your results. Avoid these mistakes for the best outcome.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure your chicken is just heated through; overcooking can dry it out. Use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and moisture.
• Using Stale Rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls are key to soft, delicious sliders. Always check the freshness before using.
• Skipping the Butter: Don’t skip brushing garlic-herb butter on top. It adds flavor and helps achieve that golden, crispy finish.
• Ignoring Layering: Proper layering is crucial. Make sure to distribute the chicken and cheese evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Not Covering While Baking: Covering sliders with foil during baking keeps them moist. Remove it only towards the end for crispness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• You can freeze them for up to 2 months.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about BBQ Chicken Sliders, here are some frequently asked questions.

What are BBQ Chicken Sliders?

BBQ Chicken Sliders are small sandwiches filled with shredded chicken mixed with BBQ sauce, topped with cheese and baked until golden.

How can I customize my BBQ Chicken Sliders?

You can add different cheeses or toppings like jalapeños or pickles to customize flavors according to your preference.

Can I use other types of bread?

Yes! While Hawaiian rolls are ideal, you can substitute with slider buns or even mini bagels if desired.

Are BBQ Chicken Sliders suitable for parties?

Absolutely! These sliders are perfect as party appetizers or game day snacks due to their bite-sized nature and crowd-pleasing taste.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Sliders offer a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to get creative with toppings and sauces. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!