BBQ Chicken Sliders (Printable Version)

Tender pulled BBQ chicken on mini buns with crunchy slaw. Ideal for entertaining and weeknight dinners.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pulled BBQ Chicken

01 - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 - 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for serving
03 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
04 - 1 tbsp olive oil
05 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
07 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
08 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Cabbage Slaw

09 - 2 cups shredded green cabbage
10 - 1 cup shredded red cabbage
11 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
12 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
13 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
14 - 1 tsp honey
15 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Assembly

16 - 12 mini slider buns
17 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (optional for toasting)

# Directions:

01 - Combine chicken, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large pot or slow cooker. Cook over medium heat for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove chicken and shred with two forks, then return to sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to absorb.
02 - Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots. Toss until evenly coated and set aside.
03 - Brush slider buns with melted butter and toast in a skillet or oven at 350°F until golden brown, approximately 3-5 minutes.
04 - Place a generous spoonful of pulled BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a scoop of slaw and cover with bun tops. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They disappear faster than you can make them, which means more compliments and less cleanup.
  • The slaw adds crunch and brightness that keeps each bite from feeling heavy.
  • You can prep the chicken ahead and assemble right before guests arrive.
  • They work just as well for a quiet Tuesday dinner as they do for a loud Saturday crowd.
02 -
  • Don't skip the slaw, it's not just a garnish, it's what keeps the sliders from tasting one note and heavy.
  • Shred the chicken while it's still hot, it falls apart more easily and soaks up the sauce better than when it cools.
  • If you're using a slow cooker, check the chicken after 3 hours on low, it can dry out if left too long.
03 -
  • Toast the buns even if you think you don't have time, it's the difference between good sliders and great ones.
  • Let the chicken sit in the sauce for a few extra minutes after shredding, it absorbs more flavor and stays juicy.
  • Don't overdress the slaw, you want it lightly coated, not swimming in mayo.
Go Back