Save Spicy BBQ chicken sliders are my go-to when I need a crowd-pleaser for summer picnics and casual backyard get-togethers. The juicy chicken is packed with smoky heat, and everything fits neatly into soft, pillowy rolls you can eat with one hand. It is serious comfort food with a spicy twist that always disappears fast.
I first made these on a whim for my husband's birthday barbecue and now, my friends think of me as the spicy slider queen.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: The dark meat stays juicy and is perfect for shredding
- Smoky barbecue sauce: Look for one with a tangy kick Never hurts to grab your favorite local brand
- Hot sauce: This is what brings the heat Adjust based on your spice comfort
- Slider buns: Soft and slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls are always a hit but use any that hold up to saucy fillings
- Fresh coleslaw mix: Crunch balances the richness Choose a bag with vibrant colors and crisp veggies
- Garlic powder: Adds backbone and savoriness Make sure it smells fresh when you pop open the jar
- Smoked paprika: This adds another layer of smokiness Spanish or Hungarian varieties both work well
Instructions
- Prep and Season the Chicken:
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels Set them on a plate and sprinkle evenly with garlic powder and a solid pinch of smoked paprika Rubbing in the seasonings helps the flavor stick and develop a subtle crust during cooking
- Sear to Build Flavor:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium high until hot Add a drizzle of oil and cook the chicken thighs in a single layer Cook about four to five minutes per side until you get a golden brown crust and the juices run clear Do not overcrowd the pan or you will miss out on those caramelized bits
- Simmer in BBQ Sauce:
- Pour barbecue sauce and a dash of hot sauce over the browned chicken Reduce heat to low Cover and simmer for another ten minutes until the chicken is ultra tender and easily shreds with two forks The sauce thickens and soaks in during this time
- Shred the Chicken:
- Move the cooked chicken to a cutting board Use two forks to pull the thighs apart into bite sized pieces Spoon the thickened sauce from the pan back over the shredded meat for maximum flavor
- Toast the Slider Buns:
- Pop slider buns into a toaster oven or under the broiler until the tops are just golden and crisp This adds another layer of texture and helps prevent sogginess
- Layer and Assemble:
- Pile a generous spoonful of saucy chicken on the bottom half of every toasted bun Top with a small scoop of fresh coleslaw Press the tops of the buns gently over the filling Arrange on a plate or serving tray
- Serve Hot and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot and saucy The crunch from the slaw and the spicy BBQ sauce make every bite irresistible
Save For me the best part is always that first bite with smoky, spicy sauce mixing into the cool slaw. My kids love getting messy with these and loading up their own sliders around the table. It is the kind of dinner where everyone ends up laughing and reaching for seconds.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the shredded BBQ chicken and buns separately in airtight containers. The chicken will keep for up to four days in the refrigerator. Reheat the meat in a skillet with a splash of water for moisture, then assemble sliders just before eating. Avoid storing with slaw inside the buns, as it will make them soggy quickly.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken breasts can be swapped in if you prefer lighter meat, just watch the cook time to prevent dryness. For a vegetarian twist, pulled jackfruit or roasted mushrooms work surprisingly well with this spicy barbecue approach. If you are out of coleslaw mix, thinly sliced cabbage and carrots tossed in a simple vinegar dressing make an easy substitute. Gluten free buns hold up as long as you toast them well.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are a hit alongside corn on the cob, a simple potato salad, or crisp pickle chips. For a party spread, I like to set out extra barbecue sauce and pickled jalapenos so guests can customize the spice level. They are perfect for picnics or as a casual dinner paired with homemade baked beans and summer tomatoes.
Cultural and Historical Context
Barbecue chicken sandwiches have been a staple at regional summer gatherings for decades, but sliders are a more recent American comfort food invention. Offering single serving portions lets everyone sample, mix, and match flavors, which is probably why they have taken off so quickly at backyard parties. Barbecue traditions are all about slow cooking and plenty of sauce, and these sliders honor that spirit in every bite.
Seasonal Adaptations
Grill the chicken outdoors in the summer for an extra layer of smoky flavor Try apple cider vinegar and diced apples in the slaw for a fall twist If you want something heartier for winter, melt provolone cheese over the saucy chicken before serving Make miniature versions for appetizer trays at spring showers or brunches
Save It is easy to become the crowd favorite when you bring these juicy, spicy sliders to the party. Enjoy every bite and make them your own with a little extra sauce or creative slaw!
Recipe Guide
- → What type of chicken works best for these sliders?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh pieces deliver optimal flavor and tenderness when grilled or baked.
- → How can I add more spice?
Include sliced jalapeños, add hot sauce to the BBQ mix, or use spicy BBQ seasoning for a fiery kick.
- → Can I prepare sliders ahead of time?
Grill chicken and assemble all components, then refrigerate separately. Assemble just before serving for fresh flavor.
- → What bun alternatives are available?
Try mini brioche buns, Hawaiian rolls, or whole wheat sliders for added variety and texture.
- → What sides pair well with BBQ chicken sliders?
Classic sides include coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, or crispy fries for a satisfying meal.