These Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders with Slaw are a delicious and easy-to-make meal, perfect for casual gatherings or a weeknight dinner. Tender pulled chicken is coated in tangy BBQ sauce and served on soft slider buns, topped with a crunchy, creamy coleslaw for the ultimate comfort food experience.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- In a slow cooker, add the chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the sauce.
- In a medium bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- To assemble the sliders, place a spoonful of pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each slider bun.
- Top with a generous amount of coleslaw and place the other half of the bun on top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350-400 per serving (1 slider)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
History of BBQ Chicken Sliders
BBQ chicken sliders are a contemporary take on the classic BBQ sandwich, offering a more accessible and fun version of a popular dish. BBQ sandwiches have deep roots in Southern cuisine, but sliders have emerged in recent years as a crowd-pleasing alternative. Their smaller size makes them perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, where people can easily grab a bite-sized portion and sample multiple flavors. Over time, BBQ chicken sliders have gained traction for their versatility, allowing for various fillings and toppings, including tangy slaw, pickles, and different types of buns.
The Origin of Pulled Chicken
Pulled chicken has become a popular substitute for pulled pork in BBQ recipes, offering a lighter alternative that still delivers the same tender, flavorful experience. Pulled pork is a Southern BBQ classic, but chicken, particularly when cooked low and slow, mimics the same texture and can absorb the rich flavors of BBQ sauce just as well. As a result, pulled chicken has found its place in sandwiches, tacos, and other creative dishes, providing a lighter yet satisfying option for those craving BBQ without the heaviness of pork.
Why Sliders Are So Popular
Sliders have gained popularity due to their convenience and bite-sized nature. These mini sandwiches allow for portion control, making them perfect for social gatherings where people want to sample different flavors without overindulging. Sliders are also incredibly versatile, allowing for a range of fillings from meats to plant-based options. Their small size and easy-to-eat format make them a great choice for parties, potlucks, or any event where finger foods are preferred.
The Role of BBQ Sauce in Flavor Development
BBQ sauce is the star ingredient when it comes to seasoning pulled chicken. The sauce not only enhances the flavor of the meat but also helps tenderize it during the slow cooking process. The richness of BBQ sauce, whether sweet, tangy, spicy, or smoky, transforms the chicken into a mouthwatering dish. A variety of BBQ sauces are available depending on regional preferences, and selecting the right one can elevate the overall taste of the sliders. BBQ sauce serves as the foundation for the chicken’s flavor, bringing out the meat’s natural juiciness and adding layers of complexity.
The Importance of Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is a game-changer when preparing pulled chicken. This method allows the chicken to become incredibly tender as it cooks in its own juices, absorbing the BBQ sauce along the way. The slow cooking process also helps develop deep, savory flavors that are hard to achieve with faster cooking methods. Whether using a slow cooker, an oven, or a stovetop, the key to perfect pulled chicken is cooking it low and slow, which results in a juicy, flavorful base for your sliders.
Choosing the Right Chicken for Pulled Sliders
When making pulled chicken sliders, the cut of chicken you choose plays a significant role in the final outcome. While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used for their leanness, chicken thighs offer a richer, juicier alternative due to their higher fat content. Thighs tend to retain more moisture during cooking, which can help prevent the chicken from drying out. Both cuts can be used successfully, but thighs are often the preferred choice for those looking for a more succulent result.
Making the Perfect Slaw to Complement BBQ Chicken
No pulled BBQ chicken slider is complete without a fresh, crunchy slaw. Coleslaw provides a perfect contrast to the tender, smoky chicken, adding a creamy and tangy bite that enhances the flavors of the dish. The texture of the slaw provides a nice crunch, balancing the softness of the bun and the richness of the BBQ sauce. A simple coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar is traditional, but feel free to experiment by adding other ingredients such as apples, onions, or mustard to create a unique variation.
Buns: The Foundation of the Slider
The bun is the vessel that holds all the delicious ingredients together, making it just as important as the filling itself. For pulled BBQ chicken sliders, soft, slightly sweet buns are the most common choice. These buns complement the savory chicken and tangy slaw without overwhelming the dish. Brioche buns are another excellent option, offering a buttery flavor and rich texture that pairs perfectly with BBQ chicken. It’s essential to choose buns that are sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy filling without falling apart, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
Vegetarian Alternatives for BBQ Sliders
While pulled chicken is the traditional choice for BBQ sliders, vegetarians and those seeking plant-based alternatives can enjoy the same great flavors with a little creativity. Pulled jackfruit is a popular substitute, as its texture closely mimics that of pulled meat. When cooked with BBQ sauce, jackfruit absorbs the rich flavors and provides a satisfying, meaty texture. Mushrooms, particularly varieties like shiitake or portobello, can also be used as a meat substitute, offering a savory, umami-rich filling that works well in BBQ recipes.
The Benefits of Meal Prepping Pulled BBQ Chicken
Pulled BBQ chicken is an ideal dish for meal prepping. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to option for busy weeks. You can cook a large batch of pulled chicken ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator or freezer, and use it for multiple meals. Whether you’re making sliders, tacos, or salads, prepped pulled chicken makes it easy to put together a quick and satisfying meal without having to cook from scratch each time.
Serving Ideas for Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders
Pulled BBQ chicken sliders can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. For a traditional BBQ meal, pair the sliders with sides like baked beans, corn on the cob, and potato salad. For a lighter meal, serve them with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables. You can also offer a selection of toppings, such as pickles, jalapenos, or extra BBQ sauce, allowing guests to customize their sliders to their liking.
Healthier Substitutions for Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders
If you’re looking to make a healthier version of pulled BBQ chicken sliders, there are several ways to lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor. Choose a lower-sugar BBQ sauce or make your own to control the sweetness. For the buns, you can opt for whole wheat or lettuce wraps as a healthier alternative. Additionally, swapping the traditional mayo-based coleslaw for a lighter version made with Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette dressing can reduce calories while still providing the necessary tang and creaminess.
How to Make Sliders for a Large Group
When serving pulled BBQ chicken sliders for a large crowd, the key is to streamline the preparation process. Cooking the chicken in a slow cooker or roasting it in bulk allows you to easily make a large batch without much effort. Once the chicken is shredded, assemble the sliders quickly and efficiently, setting up a slider station where guests can add their own toppings. This interactive approach can also make the event more fun and engaging.
Pairing Drinks with Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders
The flavors of pulled BBQ chicken sliders pair well with a variety of drinks. For an alcoholic option, a cold beer, such as a pale ale or lager, complements the smoky and savory chicken. If you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, iced tea, lemonade, or soda are all excellent choices. You can even serve the sliders with a refreshing mocktail, offering a tangy, sweet balance to the richness of the BBQ.
The Appeal of Miniature Foods
Miniature foods, like sliders, have gained widespread appeal due to their bite-sized nature and ability to cater to multiple tastes. Their small size makes them perfect for sharing, allowing guests to try a variety of flavors without committing to a full-sized portion. Sliders are particularly popular for parties and social gatherings because they are easy to serve and fun to eat, making them an ideal choice for any event where food needs to be both delicious and easy to handle.
Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot for Pulled Chicken
Both the slow cooker and the Instant Pot are great tools for making pulled chicken, but they serve slightly different purposes. The slow cooker excels at producing tender, juicy meat over a long period, allowing the flavors to develop deeply. On the other hand, the Instant Pot can cook the chicken much faster while still yielding tender results. The Instant Pot’s quick cooking time is ideal for those who are short on time but still want a flavorful meal.
The Versatility of Pulled Chicken
Pulled chicken is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes beyond sliders. You can serve it in tacos, wraps, or on top of a salad for a light and satisfying meal. Pulled chicken is also great for meal prepping, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and used in different ways. Its ability to absorb flavors and pair with different types of toppings makes it a go-to ingredient for a wide range of recipes.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders
To ensure your pulled BBQ chicken sliders are perfect every time, there are a few important tips to follow. First, make sure to season the chicken generously before cooking, allowing the flavors to permeate the meat. Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can dry out and become tough. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after shredding to allow the sauce to absorb fully, resulting in the juiciest sliders possible.
How to Make the Slaw Ahead of Time
Slaw can be made ahead of time, which not only saves you time but also enhances its flavor. Prepare the slaw up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the dressing to soak into the vegetables, making the slaw even more flavorful. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ensure an even mix of flavors.
Conclusion
Pulled BBQ chicken sliders with slaw are a delicious, convenient, and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. From their tender, smoky chicken to the crunchy, tangy slaw and soft buns, these sliders offer a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick family meal, or meal prepping for the week, pulled BBQ chicken sliders are sure to be a crowd favorite. With their simplicity and ability to be customized to your liking, these sliders are a must-try for anyone who loves BBQ.