BBQ Chicken and Cheese Sliders

BBQ chicken and cheese sliders fill that need for easy comfort food when everyone is craving something cozy and satisfying. Tangy BBQ sauce melds with juicy chicken and melted cheddar all tucked into soft slider buns then finished with buttery seasoning. Whether you are hosting game day or just want to make family dinner special these crowd-pleasers are always a hit in my house.

Every time I serve these sliders at gatherings or for laid-back Sunday suppers people go back for seconds and sometimes thirds The melty cheese and sweet smoky chicken always vanish fast

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: Look for rotisserie chicken or slow-cook your own for extra tenderness
• BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite for the base flavor I like a smoky-sweet variety for balance
• Slider buns: Soft enriched rolls soak up the saucy filling without falling apart
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly and gives the sliders richness Buy block cheese and shred it yourself for fresher flavor
• Sliced red onion: Adds a subtle crunch and sharp bite Look for onions that are firm and heavy with shiny skin
• Dill pickle slices: Brings briny tang and balances the sweet and savory elements Use fresh crisp pickles
• Butter: Melted butter helps create a golden flavorful crust on the buns Quality butter will make a difference
• Garlic powder and onion powder: These pantry staples add a savory kick Choose fresh spices for best taste
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish and adds color Use flat-leaf if possible

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking for the sliders

Mix the Chicken and Sauce:

In a large bowl stir the cooked shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce Until every piece is coated this will make the filling rich and flavorful

Build the Slider Bases:

With a serrated knife slice the slider buns in half horizontally Keep the buns attached at the edges Arrange the bottom halves snugly in a greased nine by thirteen inch baking dish

Layer the Fillings:

Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly onto the bun bottoms making sure every corner gets covered Next sprinkle on all the cheddar cheese for maximum melt Scatter sliced red onions across the cheese then top with dill pickle slices for a crunchy tangy bite

Add the Buns:

Set the upper halves of the buns gently over the layered fillings Press down slightly so they stay in place

Mix and Brush the Butter:

In a small bowl blend the melted butter with garlic and onion powder Using a pastry brush cover the tops of the buns in this mixture This adds flavor while helping the bread toast to golden

Bake Covered and Uncovered:

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about fifteen minutes This keeps the sliders moist Then remove the foil and bake another ten minutes so the cheese melts and the buns turn perfectly golden

Garnish and Serve:

Pull the dish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes A little fresh chopped parsley adds an herby pop Slice the sliders apart with a sharp knife and serve right away while they are warm and gooey

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Cheddar is my personal favorite in these sliders though sometimes my kids request a blend of cheeses I always remember the first time I made these for a neighbor who just moved in we laughed about how quickly everyone reached for seconds before we even finished our plates

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat sliders covered in the oven to restore the fresh baked texture If you plan to freeze them wrap individually in foil then reheat in a toaster oven for crispy edges and gooey cheese

Ingredient Substitutions

Try pulled pork in place of chicken for a smoky twist For a punchier cheese swap cheddar for pepper jack or even smoked gouda Use a tangy Carolina-style BBQ sauce for a vinegar kick If you are out of slider buns small dinner rolls work in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sliders with potato chips or simple coleslaw for easy weeknight dinners They also pair well with baked beans or roasted veggies for a full meal For entertaining a bowl of extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing on the side keeps everyone happy

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These BBQ chicken sliders are the kind of meal that make everyone stop and savor the moment Any chance I get to make these is a comfort food win in my kitchen

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for these sliders?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time, giving you tender, flavorful results.

→ Should I toast the buns before assembling?

No pre-toasting is required, as baking the assembled sliders crisps the tops and keeps the bottoms soft.

→ What type of barbecue sauce works best?

You can use your favorite brand or flavor, from sweet and smoky to spicy, depending on your taste preference.

→ Can these sliders be made ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sliders, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

→ Are there substitutions for cheddar cheese?

Absolutely. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack cheese add a delicious twist to the sliders.

→ How do I prevent soggy bottoms on the sliders?

Layer the chicken evenly and avoid excess sauce pooling. Baking uncovered at the end helps keep buns crisp.