Save BBQ chicken sliders with tangy coleslaw make every gathering feel like a summer celebration. The pulled chicken soaks up smoky barbecue sauce for finger-licking goodness, and the crisp, tangy slaw brings everything into balance. When my family wants something hearty but quick for game night or a backyard dinner, I always turn to this recipe. The mix of textures and fresh flavors never disappoints.
I remember making these for my son's birthday picnic last year. The kids loved building their own sliders, and the adults kept coming back for seconds. Now these sliders make regular appearances at all our get-togethers.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: Offer juicy, tender meat that shreds effortlessly. Choose pasture-raised or organic if possible for best flavor
- Barbecue sauce: Brings smoky sweet depth to the chicken. Go with your favorite variety and check the label for quality ingredients
- Coleslaw mix: Makes things simple with pre-shredded cabbage and carrots. Opt for a fresh, vibrant mix for extra crunch
- Mayonnaise: Gives the slaw creaminess. Real mayo with simple ingredients has the best taste
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds tangy zip to the coleslaw. Look for raw or unfiltered vinegar for a more complex punch
- Sugar: Balances the sharpness in the slaw. Use a scant tablespoon to start and adjust to taste
- Salt and pepper: Sharpen all the other flavors. Tasting as you go is the key here
- Slider buns: With a soft, pillowy texture hold everything together. Brioche or potato buns work beautifully. Pick the freshest bakery package you can find
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place chicken thighs in your slow cooker and cover evenly with barbecue sauce. Set to low for four to five hours or high for two to three hours. Chicken should shred easily when done
- Mix the Slaw:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well coated. Let the slaw sit to allow flavors to blend and cabbage to soften slightly
- Shred the Chicken:
- Remove cooked chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken thoroughly right in the sauce until every piece is nicely coated
- Build the Sliders:
- Slice the slider buns. Pile on a generous scoop of BBQ chicken and top with a heaping spoonful of tangy coleslaw. Close with the top bun and serve warm and fresh
Save Barbecue sauce is the star for me. The aroma as the chicken cooks brings everyone to the kitchen, reminding me of family road trips when roadside barbecue sandwiches were a treat we all anticipated. Sometimes I sneak in a bit of my homemade hot sauce for a subtle kick that my dad taught me to love.
Storage Tips
Sliders are best assembled just before serving so buns stay fresh. Store the barbecue chicken in an airtight container in your fridge for three days. Coleslaw will keep in its own covered bowl for up to two days. If you need to freeze leftovers, portion the chicken only and leave out the slaw for best texture when reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have chicken thighs, chicken breasts can be used but watch closely so they do not dry out. Greek yogurt makes a light alternative to mayonnaise in the slaw. Gluten free slider buns turn this dish into a celiac friendly treat. Swap in your favorite vinegar for apple cider or add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Set up a slider bar with extra toppings such as spicy pickles, sliced red onions, or jalapeno. A fresh corn salad or sweet potato fries make perfect partners on the side. At our house, a scoop of mac and cheese completes the comfort food vibe.
Save This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a festive meal everyone craves. Build your sliders fresh and watch them disappear fast at any gathering!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster and could dry out if overcooked.
- → Is there a way to make it spicier?
Add a splash of hot sauce or use a spicy barbecue sauce for an extra kick in the chicken mixture.
- → How do I keep the slider buns from getting soggy?
Lightly toast the buns before assembling and drain excess liquid from the coleslaw before topping.
- → What are good substitutes for mayonnaise in the coleslaw?
Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative can be used to keep the slaw creamy and tangy.
- → How can I save leftovers?
Store the pulled chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the buns?
Yes, use gluten-free slider buns to accommodate dietary needs. Verify all ingredient labels for allergens.