Barbecue Chicken Sliders

Barbecue Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, family gatherings, or any casual get-together. With the heavenly sweetness of Kings Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls, tender shredded chicken, and a rich barbecue sauce, these sliders are a deliciously satisfying treat that everyone will love. Top them off with melted cheese and a buttery herb topping, and you have a dish that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this easy recipe will have you serving up sliders that are sure to impress!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These Barbecue Chicken Sliders are not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. You can whip them up in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute option for unexpected guests. The combination of savory chicken, sweet rolls, and gooey cheese creates a delightful flavor explosion that will keep everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these mouthwatering bites.

Ingredient Rundown

To make these scrumptious Barbecue Chicken Sliders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 count package Kings Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls – These rolls add a sweet, fluffy base that complements the savory filling perfectly.
• 3 cups shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken is recommended for convenience and flavor. It’s juicy and flavorful!
• 1 cup barbecue sauce – Choose your favorite brand; this is where the flavor really comes from.
• 8 slices of cheese – Havarti cheese is a great choice, but feel free to substitute with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, gouda, or smoked gouda for a unique twist.
• ½ cup butter, melted – I use salted butter for added flavor, but unsalted works too; just add a pinch of salt.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely minced – Adds a lovely herbaceous note. You can substitute with 1 ½ teaspoons of dried thyme if fresh isn’t available.
• 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes – A great way to infuse onion flavor without the hassle of chopping.
• 2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely minced OR ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the sliders.

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary equipment:

• Oven – To bake the sliders and melt the cheese.
• Baking dish – A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Mixing bowl – For combining the shredded chicken and barbecue sauce.
• Pastry brush – For applying the melted butter mixture on top of the rolls.
• Knife – To slice the rolls and cheese.

Barbecue Chicken Sliders: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sliders bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce. Stir until the chicken is well coated. If you love extra sauce, feel free to add more to suit your taste.

Step 3: Slice the Rolls

Carefully slice the Kings Hawaiian Sweet Rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected. This makes it easy to fill them with the chicken mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom half of the rolls in your baking dish. Evenly distribute the barbecue chicken mixture over the rolls. Top the chicken with the slices of cheese, then place the top half of the rolls over the cheese.

Step 5: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced thyme, dried onion flakes, and minced garlic (or garlic powder). This flavorful mixture will add a delicious topping to your sliders.

Step 6: Brush the Rolls

Using a pastry brush, generously apply the butter mixture over the top of the rolls. Make sure to cover them well for the best flavor.

Step 7: Bake the Sliders

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops of the rolls are golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once out of the oven, let the sliders cool for a few minutes before slicing them apart. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear in no time!

Texture-Safe Substitutions

If you want to customize the sliders for texture or dietary preferences, consider the following substitutions:

• Chicken: Use shredded turkey or even a plant-based chicken alternative for a different flavor and texture.
• Cheese: Vegan cheese can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
• Barbecue Sauce: Homemade barbecue sauce can be used for a fresher taste, or try a spicy variant for an extra kick.
• Buns: Use gluten-free rolls for a gluten-free option.

Learn from These Mistakes

Cooking is a learning experience, and here are a few common mistakes to avoid while making your Barbecue Chicken Sliders:

• Overfilling the Rolls: While it’s tempting to pile on the chicken, overfilling can make it difficult to close the rolls properly and may lead to a messy bake.
• Skipping the Butter Mixture: Don’t skip the melted butter topping; it adds flavor and helps the sliders brown nicely.
• Not Letting Them Cool: Allow the sliders to cool slightly before slicing; this helps them hold their shape better.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before mixing it with the barbecue sauce for better flavor integration.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Leftover Barbecue Chicken Sliders can be stored easily! Here’s how:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
• Freezer: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Handy Q&A

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sliders up to the baking stage and refrigerate them overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.

What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh garden salad. They also go great with vegetable sticks and dip!

Can I use a different type of roll?

Yes! While Kings Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are highly recommended for their sweetness, you can use any slider buns or even regular burger buns in a pinch.

How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure to avoid over-saturating the rolls with barbecue sauce. You can also lightly toast the rolls before assembling to create a barrier against moisture.

Keep Cooking

If you enjoyed making these Barbecue Chicken Sliders, here are some more delicious recipes to explore:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for delightful desserts.
• Pinch of Yum for healthy meal inspiration.
• Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based recipes.

Hungry for More?

Explore the wonderful world of sliders and sandwiches! Whether it’s pulled pork, meatball, or veggie-packed, there’s a slider for everyone. Keep experimenting with flavors, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. You never know what new favorites you might discover along the way!

Barbecue Chicken Sliders are a delicious way to bring people together, and the joy of cooking these sliders is just as rewarding as eating them. Enjoy every bite and the smiles they bring!