Welcome to your new favorite go-to recipe for quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious meals or party appetizers: BBQ Chicken Sliders! Crafted with the irresistible sweetness of fluffy Hawaiian rolls, layers of tender deli chicken generously coated in tangy BBQ sauce, the delightful crunch of crispy fried onions, and melted sharp cheddar cheese, these sliders are a flavor explosion in every bite. They come seasoned to perfection with a savory butter topping that guarantees a golden-brown finish and an aroma that will have everyone gathering in the kitchen. Simple to assemble and even easier to devour, these sliders are an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
A Flavor-Packed 35-Minute Dinner Recipe
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a dinner recipe that’s both quick and incredibly tasty can feel like discovering a hidden gem. These BBQ Chicken Sliders fit that description perfectly, making them an indispensable addition to your “quick dinner arsenal.” What makes them a mere 35-minute wonder? It starts with minimal prep: pre-cooked deli chicken means no raw meat handling or lengthy cooking times. Layering the ingredients is straightforward, and the oven does most of the work, allowing you to relax while dinner comes together. From start to finish, you’re looking at under an hour, including prep and bake time, which is ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still crave homemade goodness.
The beauty of these sliders lies not just in their speed but also in their versatility. They’re incredibly easy to customize, allowing you to swap ingredients, adjust quantities, and experiment with flavors to create your ultimate mini sandwiches. Whether you’re hosting a lively game day gathering, planning a relaxed party spread, or simply seeking a fun and engaging family dinner, these sliders rise to the occasion. They are fantastic for feeding a hungry group without the usual fuss and complexity of elaborate meals. The classic BBQ flavors are universally appealing, offering comfort and satisfaction without a whole bunch of hassle. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable and effortlessly delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken Sliders
Finding French’s Fried Onions can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt, as stores place them in a few different spots. Your first stop should be the condiment and canned vegetable aisles. They are frequently located near canned vegetables, especially around holiday seasons, as they are a staple for many family recipes like green bean casserole. You might also find them alongside other toppings such as croutons, salad dressings, or even pickles and olives. Fried onions are typically packaged in canisters or bags. If you don’t spot them there, check the baking aisle. Some stores stock them near ingredients used in casseroles, stuffing, and various holiday meal toppings. Finally, and this might sound unusual, during peak holiday seasons, some grocers place them in the produce area, often next to salad toppings. If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to ask a friendly store employee for assistance; they’ll usually know exactly where to direct you!
Absolutely not! While deli chicken slices offer incredible convenience, this recipe is wonderfully adaptable and perfect for using up any leftover cooked chicken you might have on hand. Shredded chicken from a rotisserie chicken works beautifully, adding a succulent texture and rich flavor. You can also use diced or sliced leftover grilled chicken, baked chicken breasts, or even canned chicken (drained well) in a pinch. The key is to have cooked chicken that can be easily layered, making this a versatile meal prep champion.
Of course! This recipe is designed to be easily customized to suit your personal taste preferences. While sharp cheddar cheese offers a fantastic tang that complements the BBQ sauce, feel free to swap it out for any other cheese slices you prefer. Mozzarella cheese would provide a milder, melty component, while provolone would add a slightly sharper, savory note. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, pepper jack cheese would introduce a delightful kick. Swiss cheese or even smoked gouda could also offer unique and delicious variations. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite cheeses!
No problem at all! While the sweet, soft, and slightly chewy texture of Hawaiian rolls is a signature element of these sliders, any good quality slider rolls will work if you find yourself in a pinch. Keep in mind that using different rolls might subtly change the overall flavor profile and texture, as Hawaiian rolls bring a unique sweetness. However, standard dinner rolls, brioche slider buns, or even potato rolls can be excellent substitutes, providing a soft base for your delicious fillings.
This recipe is designed to yield 12 individual sliders. When considering a serving size, we typically recommend 2 sliders per person, which means this recipe makes 6 generous servings. If you’re planning to serve these sliders as part of a larger spread with other sides, appetizers, or snacks, you could easily portion them out as 1 slider per person, effectively getting 12 servings from a single batch. This makes them highly adaptable for both family meals and larger gatherings.
Leftover BBQ Chicken Sliders are fantastic and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat them, you have a few options. For best results, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), wrap the sliders loosely in aluminum foil, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is re-melted. This method helps prevent the rolls from drying out and keeps the cheese gooey. You can also reheat individual sliders in a microwave for 30-60 seconds, though the rolls might lose a bit of their crispness and become softer. For a crisper top, a toaster oven or air fryer can be used for a few minutes at a lower temperature, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Yes, these sliders are an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for party planning or busy schedules! You can assemble the entire pan of sliders, including brushing on the butter topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove them from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes beforehand to allow them to come closer to room temperature, then follow the baking instructions as usual. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if they are still very cold.
BBQ Chicken Sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of classic American sides. For a traditional BBQ experience, consider serving them alongside creamy coleslaw, a vibrant potato salad, or a refreshing corn salad. Crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings also make excellent companions for a casual meal. For something lighter, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice balance. And don’t forget classics like baked beans, corn on the cob, or even a macaroni salad to complete your spread.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Amazing BBQ Chicken Sliders
Creating these irresistible BBQ Chicken Sliders requires a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful notes and substitution ideas:
- Hawaiian rolls (16-ounce package, 12 rolls): These sweet, soft, and slightly airy rolls are the perfect foundation for our sliders. Their unique flavor beautifully complements the savory fillings.
- Sliced deli chicken (1 pound): For ultimate convenience and speed. As mentioned in the FAQ, feel free to use shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or even canned chicken if you prefer.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (6 slices): Provides a robust, tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and rolls. Other great options include provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- BBQ sauce (¾ cup): Use your absolute favorite brand! Whether you prefer a sweet, smoky, tangy, or spicy BBQ sauce, select one that truly excites your palate. Sweet Baby Ray’s is a popular choice for its classic flavor profile.
- French’s fried onions (1 cup): These crispy onions are a game-changer, adding an incredible crunch and savory depth that elevates the texture of the sliders. If you’re not a fan, you can omit them or try thinly sliced and sautéed red onions for a different flavor.
- Butter (4 Tablespoons, melted): The melted butter forms the base of our golden topping, ensuring a rich flavor and beautiful golden-brown crust. You can use either salted or unsalted butter.
- Maple syrup (1 Tablespoon): Adds a touch of sweetness to the butter topping, enhancing the overall flavor and helping the rolls achieve that perfect golden-brown hue. If you don’t have maple syrup or prefer not to use it, brown sugar can be an excellent substitute, mixed well into the butter.
- Minced dried onion (2 teaspoons): Infuses the butter topping with a concentrated onion flavor, contributing to the savory aroma and taste.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers a warm, earthy, and subtly smoky note to the topping, harmonizing with the BBQ theme.
- Poppy seeds (1 teaspoon): These are totally optional but add a lovely visual appeal and a delicate, nutty crunch to the top of the rolls. Don’t feel obligated to buy them just for this recipe if you don’t have them.
- Fresh minced parsley (½ Tablespoon, for optional garnish): A sprinkle of fresh parsley after baking adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous finish. Dried parsley can also be used if fresh is unavailable.
How to Make Delicious BBQ Chicken Sliders: A Step-by-Step Guide
Get ready to assemble your new favorite sliders with these easy-to-follow instructions. The process is simple, allowing you to create a mouthwatering dish with minimal effort.
- Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly spray the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Slice and Arrange the Rolls: Carefully slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact as much as possible. Place the bottom half of the rolls snugly into the prepared baking dish, forming a single, continuous layer.
- Layer the Chicken: Evenly distribute a generous layer of the sliced deli chicken over the bottom halves of the rolls. Ensure every part of the rolls gets a good amount of chicken, making each slider hearty.
- Add the Cheese: Next, lay the slices of sharp cheddar cheese over the chicken layer. Try to cover the chicken completely with cheese for maximum melty goodness.
- Sprinkle the Fried Onions: Generously sprinkle the French’s fried onions on top of the cheese layer. These will add a fantastic crunchy texture and savory flavor.
- Spread the BBQ Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce over the fried onions. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, gently spread the sauce as evenly as possible across the top of the onions. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly uniform; the flavors will meld beautifully during baking.
- Place the Roll Tops: Carefully position the top half of the Hawaiian rolls back onto the sliders, completing your sandwich assembly.
- Prepare the Savory Butter Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, maple syrup, minced dried onion, smoked paprika, and poppy seeds (if using). Stir these ingredients together thoroughly until well combined. This mixture is crucial for giving the sliders their golden-brown crust and a burst of savory flavor.
- Brush the Topping: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter mixture evenly across the tops of the slider buns. Make sure to use all of the mixture, ensuring every roll gets a rich coating that will become deliciously golden and fragrant in the oven.
- Initial Bake (Covered): Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is important as it helps to trap steam, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly and the ingredients to warm through without the rolls browning too quickly. Bake for approximately 20 minutes.
- Final Bake (Uncovered) and Serve: Remove the aluminum foil from the baking dish. Return the sliders to the oven and continue to bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy. Once done, remove from the oven. For an optional fresh finish, sprinkle the tops with fresh minced parsley. Then, slice the sliders apart with a knife and serve immediately while they’re warm and the cheese is gooey. Enjoy your homemade BBQ Chicken Sliders!
Craving More Easy Slider Recipes?
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of these BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of incredible slider recipes waiting to be discovered. Sliders are incredibly versatile, offering endless possibilities for flavor combinations and making them perfect for any meal or gathering. From savory to spicy, and everything in between, these mini sandwiches are always a hit. Explore some of our other fantastic slider creations that are just as easy and satisfying:
- Italian Sliders
- Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sliders
- French Dip Sliders
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
- Italian Grinder Sliders
- Pizza Sliders
- Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders
- Honey Mustard Ham Sliders
- Meatball Sliders
- Roast Beef Sliders
BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe
Slices of chicken, cheese, fried onions, and savory BBQ sauce all packed inside fluffy Hawaiian rolls, brushed with a delicious butter and seasoning topping, then baked to golden perfection. This recipe is a verified crowd-pleaser!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings (12 sliders total)
- Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 16 ounce package Hawaiian rolls (12 rolls)
- 1 pound sliced deli chicken
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup French’s fried onions
- 4 Tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 Tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- ½ Tablespoon fresh minced parsley for garnish (or dried parsley – optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F degrees. Spray the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise and place the bottom half into the baking dish.
- Add a layer of the sliced deli chicken on the bottom half of the rolls.
- Then layer on the sliced cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle the French’s fried onions on top of the cheese layer.
- Then evenly spread (as best as possible) the BBQ sauce on top. I just pour it over.
- Place the top half of the rolls layer onto the sliders.
- In a bowl, add the melted butter, maple syrup, dried onion, paprika and poppy seeds. Stir together well.
- With a pastry brush, brush the mixture across the tops of the slider buns. Use all of the butter mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes (or until the sliders are warmed through and the cheese is melted).
- Remove the foil and bake sliders for about another 5 minutes, until the tops are golden brown. Optional: when done sprinkle the tops with the minced parsley then slice and serve!
Notes
- Please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions regarding this recipe.
Recipe Tags
- Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)
Calories: 634kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 29g | Sodium: 1696mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 26g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a registered dietitian or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate based on commonly used ingredients. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we strongly recommend running the ingredients through your preferred online nutritional calculator. Please note that actual calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and any substitutions made.
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