There is something irresistibly fun and satisfying about BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Mini Burgers Recipe. These little bundles of smoky, tangy, and juicy chicken packed into soft slider buns have a way of turning any meal into a festive occasion. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs smothered in your favorite BBQ sauce, topped with crisp coleslaw and pickles for just the right crunch, all wrapped in buttery toasted buns. Whether you’re serving game day guests or looking for a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, these sliders deliver big flavors in a small package that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making mini burgers because the ingredients here are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in making BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Mini Burgers Recipe so unforgettable. Every component adds layers of flavor, texture, or color to create that perfect bite you’ll crave again and again.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These are juicy and tender, making the best base for shredding and soaking up BBQ sauce.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the chicken and aids in cooking it evenly.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth that’s essential for that classic BBQ flavor.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Gives a subtle aromatic punch without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic and balances the seasoning mix smoothly.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a touch of heat for those who want a little kick.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: The basics that bring out all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce: The star of the show that ties it all together with sweetness, tang, and spice.
- 12 slider buns: Soft, small buns that are perfect for holding all the delicious fillings without overwhelming.
- 1/2 cup coleslaw: Adds an irresistible crunch and refreshing creaminess to balance the saucy chicken.
- 1/4 cup dill pickle chips: Bursts of tang and texture making every mouthful exciting.
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing the buns): Ensures the buns toast up with a golden, crispy finish that’s hard to resist.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Mini Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken thighs dry to ensure the seasoning sticks well. Mix olive oil with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a delicious marinade. Toss the chicken thighs in this mixture until they’re evenly coated. Cover and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes — or up to 4 hours if you want to amp up the flavor even more.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Choose the cooking method that suits your kitchen best: skillet, grill, or oven baking. Each method locks in the juicy flavors and cooks the chicken thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For the skillet, sear thighs 4-5 minutes per side over medium-high heat. For grilling, cook 5-7 minutes per side over medium heat. Or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes using a parchment-lined baking sheet. No matter which way you go, you’re on track for mouthwatering results.
Step 3: Shred and Sauce
Once your chicken is cooked, give it a few minutes to rest so the juices settle. Use two forks to shred the meat into tender strips. If you used the skillet method, pour your BBQ sauce into the pan and let it warm to a simmer before adding the shredded chicken. Stir everything together so each piece is thoroughly coated in that sticky, tangy BBQ goodness. If you chose the grill or oven method, simply heat up the BBQ sauce separately and mix the chicken in before assembling the sliders.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns
Slice your slider buns horizontally and brush the cut sides with melted butter. Toasting these buns is where the magic happens. You can do this in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side or pop them under the broiler for a crisp golden finish, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. These buttery, toasty buns create the perfect contrast to the saucy chicken and crunchy toppings.
Step 5: Assemble
Lay the toasted bottom halves of the buns on a serving platter. Pile on a generous scoop of BBQ chicken, then add a spoonful of crunchy coleslaw and a few dill pickle chips for that zing. Finish with the top bun halves, pressing down lightly to hold all the delicious layers together. Just like that, you’ve created BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Mini Burgers Recipe ready to wow your taste buds and your guests.
Step 6: Serve
These sliders are best enjoyed right away, while the buns are still warm and the chicken saucy. Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping or an added punch. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a relaxed family meal, these sliders bring a delightful, casual vibe that’s impossible to resist.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Mini Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little extra flair with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing. These toppings don’t just look pretty but complement the flavors beautifully, giving each slider a personalized touch that makes them even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with classic barbecue sides like crispy sweet potato fries, baked beans, or a vibrant garden salad to create a balanced and satisfying meal. The freshness of a green side or the sweetness of fries balances the smoky richness of the sliders perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your BBQ Chicken Sliders on a large wooden board surrounded by small bowls of pickles, extra coleslaw, and BBQ sauce for dipping. You can also thread mini skewers through each slider to keep them neat and make grabbing one effortless at a party. Presentation makes a big difference in making your BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Mini Burgers Recipe feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any sliders left over (though that rarely happens!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep buns from getting soggy, consider storing the chicken and buns separately and assembling before serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked shredded BBQ chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. It’s best to freeze buns separately or freshen them up by toasting after thawing. This way, you have a speedy, delicious meal ready in no time!
Reheating
Reheat the shredded chicken gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or BBQ sauce to keep it moist. You can toast the buns again in the oven or on the stove to regain that fresh-from-the-bakery texture. Assembled sliders are best enjoyed freshly made but reheating carefully can keep their flavor intact.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, especially when shredded and coated with BBQ sauce. If using breasts, just be mindful not to overcook and dry them out.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While not mandatory, marinating for at least 30 minutes really boosts the flavor by allowing the spices and oil to penetrate the meat deeply. If you’re short on time, the seasoning rub will still give tasty results.
Can I prepare the sliders for a party in advance?
You can prep all components ahead of time—cook and shred the chicken, make coleslaw, and toast buns right before serving. Keep everything separate until assembly to preserve freshness and texture.
What kind of BBQ sauce is best?
Any BBQ sauce you love will work wonderfully, whether it’s sweet, tangy, spicy, or smoky. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite match for this recipe.
Are these sliders kid-friendly?
Definitely! You can omit the cayenne or pickles if your kids prefer milder flavors. These sliders are usually a huge hit with children because they’re tasty, bite-sized, and fun to eat.
Final Thoughts
There is a special kind of joy in making and sharing BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Mini Burgers Recipe. They’re simple yet packed with bold flavors that feel like a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, you’ll find these sliders are a wonderful way to turn any meal into a fun and delicious occasion. Give this recipe a try soon—you might just discover your new favorite go-to for gatherings or a satisfying weeknight dinner!
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BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Mini Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These BBQ Chicken Sliders are juicy, flavorful mini burgers perfect for any gathering or casual meal. Tender marinated chicken thighs are cooked to perfection using your choice of skillet, grilling, or baking methods, then shredded and tossed in tangy BBQ sauce. Served on toasted slider buns with creamy coleslaw and crunchy dill pickle chips, these sliders offer the ultimate delicious bite-sized experience.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Sauce and Toppings
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup dill pickle chips
Buns and Finishing
- 12 slider buns
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing the buns)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Cook the Chicken (Choose one method): For skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add chicken thighs in a single layer (cook in batches if needed), and sear 4-5 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For grilling: Preheat grill to medium heat and grill chicken thighs 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. For baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), place chicken on lined baking sheet, and bake 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Shred and Sauce: Let the cooked chicken rest a few minutes. Pour BBQ sauce into skillet if using that method and heat until simmering. Shred chicken with two forks and add to simmering sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Prepare the Buns: Slice slider buns horizontally and brush the cut sides with melted butter. Toast buns in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side or under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Sliders: Place bottom halves of toasted buns on a platter. Spoon a generous amount of BBQ chicken on each, top with coleslaw and dill pickle chips, then cover with the bun tops.
- Serve: Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired for dipping.
Notes
- Marinating chicken for longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount for desired spice level or omit for mild sliders.
- Coleslaw can be homemade or store-bought to save time.
- To keep sliders warm, cover assembled sliders with foil before serving.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
