Save to Pinterest Juicy shredded BBQ chicken served on soft slider buns, paired with crispy golden fries. This meal is a perfect combo for casual gatherings or family dinners, combining flavorful comfort with easy preparation.
I first made these BBQ chicken sliders for a summer get-together, and they've become one of our favorite go-to meals for busy weekends. The homemade fries and saucy chicken are always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Sauce: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade), 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper (to taste)
- Sliders: 12 slider buns, 6 slices cheddar cheese (halved), 1 cup coleslaw (prepared or homemade), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- Fries: 4 large russet potatoes, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Prep & Season Chicken
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper.
- Sear Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 2 minutes per side until golden.
- Bake Chicken
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Pour chicken broth and barbecue sauce over chicken. Cover tightly with foil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature: 165°F/74°C).
- Prep & Bake Fries
- While chicken bakes, cut potatoes into 1/4-inch thick fries. Toss with vegetable oil, sea salt, black pepper, and paprika. Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until fries are golden and crisp.
- Shred Chicken
- Remove chicken from oven. Shred with two forks and toss with sauce in the baking dish.
- Toast Slider Buns
- Brush slider buns with melted butter and toast lightly in oven for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Assemble Sliders
- Place shredded BBQ chicken on bottom half of each bun. Top with cheddar cheese and a spoonful of coleslaw. Cover with top bun.
- Serve
- Serve sliders hot with crispy fries on the side.
Save to Pinterest Sharing these sliders during game night always sparks laughter and creates new family memories. Every bite seems to bring everyone a little closer.
Serving Suggestions
Try serving sliders with a side of pickle spears or a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast. A pitcher of iced tea completes the meal perfectly.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare chicken up to a day ahead and keep refrigerated. Simply reheat and assemble when ready to serve, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
Variations
Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a little heat, or use sweet potato fries for a flavorful twist. Top sliders with sliced jalapeños for extra zing.
Save to Pinterest BBQ chicken sliders and fries are sure to delight guests. Make them your signature dish for gatherings that everyone will remember.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve tender shredded chicken?
Searing the chicken before baking locks in moisture, then slow cooking with broth and BBQ sauce softens it for easy shredding.
- → What’s the best way to make crispy fries?
Toss potato strips with oil, sea salt, pepper, and paprika, then bake on parchment-lined sheet, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
- → Can I use different types of cheese on the sliders?
Yes, cheddar is suggested but swapping for pepper jack or mozzarella adds unique flavors to complement the chicken.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the sliders?
Incorporate pickles or sliced jalapeños to elevate the smoky, savory profile of the sliders with a tangy or spicy kick.
- → Is there an alternative cooking method for the chicken?
The chicken can be prepared in a slow cooker on LOW for 4 hours, which results in tender, flavorful meat without baking.