BBQ Chicken Sliders Delight

This sticky, savory BBQ chicken slider recipe has become my secret weapon for busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast. The combination of tender shredded chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melty cheese nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls creates irresistible handheld delights that disappear within minutes at my table.

I first made these sliders for a last minute neighborhood potluck and they vanished before I could even grab one for myself. Now they're requested at nearly every gathering, and I always double the batch so everyone gets their fill.

Ingredients

• 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls: Their pillowy texture and subtle sweetness complement the tangy BBQ sauce perfectly
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience
• ½ cup BBQ sauce: Choose a quality sauce with depth or make your own for best results
• ½ small red onion: Adds pleasant crunch and a pop of color that brightens both flavor and appearance
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The sharp variety stands up to the bold BBQ flavors better than mild
• 1 tablespoon melted butter: Creates that irresistible golden finish on top

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Heat your oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. The moderate temperature ensures the rolls get toasty without burning while allowing enough time for the cheese to melt perfectly.

Prepare the Rolls:

Keep the rolls connected and slice them horizontally as one unit using a serrated knife. This technique keeps everything neat and makes assembly much faster than handling individual rolls. Place the bottom half on your prepared baking sheet.

Mix the Filling:

Combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl until thoroughly coated. This is where the magic happens as the sauce infuses the chicken with tangy sweetness. Make sure every bit of chicken is coated for consistent flavor throughout.

Layer the Ingredients:

Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly across the bottom bun half. The key is creating an even layer so every bite contains the perfect amount of filling. Add red onion slices strategically for balanced flavor in each slider. Finish with a generous blanket of shredded cheese to bind everything together.

Assemble and Butter:

Place the top half of the rolls over the filling and brush with melted butter. The butter does double duty adding flavor while helping achieve that beautiful golden brown color during baking.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 12 minutes. This initial covered bake keeps everything moist while heating through. Remove the foil and continue baking for 5 minutes until the cheese is gloriously melted and the tops turn golden brown and slightly crisp.

Slice and Serve:

Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut along the natural divisions between rolls. Serve immediately while the cheese is still stretchy and the buns are warm.

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The first time I made these sliders, I accidentally used chipotle BBQ sauce instead of our usual honey BBQ. That happy accident became our favorite version with its subtle smokiness that complements the sweet Hawaiian rolls beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The key to successful reheating is wrapping them in foil before placing in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. This method prevents the rolls from drying out while ensuring the filling heats thoroughly. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it tends to make the rolls soggy and tough.

Customization Options

The beauty of these sliders lies in their versatility. Try buffalo sauce instead of BBQ for a spicy twist, or use pulled pork instead of chicken for heartier sliders. For cheese variations, pepper jack adds a pleasant heat, while smoked gouda introduces complex flavor notes. Vegetarians can enjoy these by substituting the chicken with sautéed mushrooms tossed in BBQ sauce. Each variation maintains the core appeal while offering new flavor experiences.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair beautifully with simple sides that complement without competing. A crisp coleslaw provides refreshing contrast to the rich, saucy sliders. Sweet potato fries make an excellent companion, especially when served with a cooling ranch dip. For potlucks or game day spreads, arrange them alongside pickle spears, vegetable platters, and potato chips for a crowd pleasing buffet that satisfies diverse tastes.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of roll?

Yes, while Hawaiian rolls add a sweet touch, other soft rolls or slider buns work just as well.

→ What cheese works best for these sliders?

Sharp cheddar is a great option, but you can use pepper jack, Monterey jack, or any melty cheese you prefer.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, assemble the sliders a few hours ahead and bake them just before serving for the best results.

→ How do I store leftover sliders?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

→ Is there an alternative to BBQ sauce?

You can substitute BBQ sauce with honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or any sauce that complements chicken.