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This shredded BBQ chicken slider recipe transforms store-bought rotisserie chicken into a crowd-pleasing meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and melty provolone creates irresistible sliders that disappear fast.
I first made these sliders for a last-minute neighborhood potluck, and they were such a hit that they've become my go-to recipe whenever we have friends over for game day. The combination of convenience and flavor just can't be beat.
Ingredients
- Rotisserie chicken: the ultimate time-saver providing juicy, perfectly cooked meat without any effort
- All purpose seasoning: adds balanced flavor to complement the BBQ sauce look for one without too much salt
- BBQ sauce: brings tangy sweetness pick your favorite brand or use homemade for extra points
- Provolone cheese: creates a creamy, melty layer that holds everything together select a quality brand for best flavor
- Slider buns: the perfect vessel for these mini sandwiches look for fresh ones with a slightly crisp exterior
- Melted butter: creates a golden, flavorful top when brushed on the buns use real butter for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it reaches the proper temperature by the time your sliders are assembled. This moderate heat will warm everything through without burning the tops of your buns.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Remove all the skin and bones from your rotisserie chicken, discarding them or saving for homemade stock. Place the meat in a large bowl, making sure to get every bit of that tender chicken. This is where all the flavor begins.
- Shred the Meat:
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart into small, tender shreds. For an easier method, place chunks of chicken in your stand mixer with the paddle attachment and run it on low speed for about 30 seconds. Watch carefully so it doesn't become too finely shredded.
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle your all purpose seasoning evenly over the shredded chicken and stir thoroughly to distribute. Add 1/3 cup of barbecue sauce and fold it through the meat until every piece is lightly coated but not swimming in sauce.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Spray your casserole dish with non stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This simple step makes serving and cleanup much easier, especially since melted cheese tends to adhere to the sides of baking dishes.
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Place the bottom halves of your slider buns in a single layer in the prepared casserole dish. Portion about 1/3 cup of the BBQ chicken mixture onto each bun, slightly mounding it in the center. For larger hamburger buns, double the portion to 2/3 cup per bun.
- Add Cheese and Finish Assembly:
- Lay slices of provolone cheese over the chicken layer, overlapping slightly if needed to cover all the meat. Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the cheese, then place the top buns over everything. Brush the tops generously with melted butter for a golden finish.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake the assembled sliders for 15 to 20 minutes in your preheated oven until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. The edges should be slightly crispy and the centers warm and gooey.
My absolute favorite part of this recipe is the contrast between the soft, buttery buns and the tangy sweetness of the barbecue sauce. It reminds me of summer cookouts with my family where we would gather on the deck and enjoy these sliders with corn on the cob and cold drinks.
Make Ahead Options
These sliders work beautifully as a prepare ahead meal. You can shred and season the chicken mixture up to two days before, storing it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply assemble and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if the chicken mixture is cold from the refrigerator. The assembled but unbaked sliders can also be prepared up to 4 hours ahead and kept refrigerated until baking time.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders pair wonderfully with classic summer sides. Serve alongside a crisp coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a complete meal. For a lighter option, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the rich, savory sliders. If serving for a party, arrange on a large platter surrounded by pickle spears, potato chips, and extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Flavor Variations
The beauty of these BBQ chicken sliders lies in their versatility. Try using different cheese varieties like cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda for unique flavor profiles. You can also experiment with BBQ sauce styles from sweet and smoky Kansas City style to tangy Carolina vinegar based sauces. For added texture and flavor, consider topping the chicken with crispy fried onions or a spoonful of coleslaw before adding the cheese layer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for sliders?
Rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience, but cooked boneless, skinless chicken works perfectly too.
- → Can I use different cheese with these sliders?
Yes, you can swap provolone for cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese.
- → How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
Store meat separately and assemble just before reheating or serving.
- → What sides go well with BBQ sliders?
Pair with coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
- → How long can I store leftover BBQ chicken sliders?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days when stored properly.