There’s just something about a barbecue that feels like the heart of summer, even if it’s the middle of October and you’re wearing a flannel. Easy BBQ Chicken Sliders are my go-to for laid-back gatherings; they’re like a warm hug for your taste buds. I remember last weekend, the sun was setting, and the air felt crisp — these sliders were the stars of the show, right there alongside laughter and a playlist stuck on repeat.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, then lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
- Arrange the bottom halves of the slider buns in the prepared dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the shredded chicken with ½ cup of BBQ sauce until it’s fully coated. Distribute the chicken evenly over the buns and drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce on top.
- Sprinkle mozzarella, red onion slices, gouda, and 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro evenly over the chicken. Season with black pepper if desired.
- Place the top halves of the buns onto the sliders.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
- While the sliders are baking, melt the butter and combine it with the remaining cilantro.
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and brush each bun with the butter-cilantro mixture. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 12 slider buns, split
- 4 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce (such as Sweet Baby Ray’s), additional if preferred
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup of grated smoked gouda cheese
- 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
FAQ
- What type of cheese is used in BBQ Chicken Sliders?
- The sliders are topped with a combination of shredded mozzarella and smoked gouda cheese, which pair perfectly with the juicy BBQ chicken.
- How long does it take to make BBQ Chicken Sliders?
- The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for game day appetizers.
- Can I use a different type of meat for these sliders?
- While the recipe calls for chicken, you can certainly experiment with other meats, such as turkey, especially if BBQ chicken isn’t your preference.
- What should I do if I don’t have cooked chicken on hand?
- If you don’t have cooked chicken, you can cook 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium-high heat for about 7-10 minutes, until the inside is no longer pink. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks.
- What is the recommended serving size for this recipe?
- The recipe yields 12 sliders, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a hearty snack.
Tips
- Use Parchment Paper: When preparing your baking dish, line it with parchment paper and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the sliders from sticking to the dish.
- Coat Chicken Thoroughly: Mix the shredded chicken with half of the BBQ sauce until it’s completely coated. This step ensures that every bite of chicken is flavorful and moist.
- Butter Brushing for Golden Tops: After baking the sliders covered with foil, brush the tops of the buns with a melted butter and cilantro mixture before baking them uncovered. This will give the sliders a deliciously golden and crispy top.
- Cheese Layering: Evenly spread the mozzarella and gouda cheeses over the chicken and BBQ sauce. This will ensure a consistent cheesy flavor throughout each slider.
Equipment
- 9×13 Baking Dish – While many people have baking dishes, this specific size is essential for the recipe.
- Parchment Paper – Useful for lining the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Non-Stick Cooking Spray – Helps in further preventing sticking to the parchment paper.
- Grater – Needed for grating mozzarella and smoked gouda cheese.
- Basting Brush – Useful for brushing the buns with the butter and cilantro mixture.
