Pulled Chicken Sliders

Pulled Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, game day, or just craving a flavorful and satisfying meal. These sliders combine tender, juicy chicken with a tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled in soft slider buns. Add a bit of crunchy coleslaw on top, and you’ve got a perfect bite-sized delight that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also versatile, making it a go-to dish you’ll want to add to your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both simple and packed with bold flavors, Pulled Chicken Sliders are exactly what you need. The chicken breasts are slow-cooked until fall-apart tender, soaking up the smoky, garlicky barbecue sauce that’s perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness and spice. Unlike traditional pulled pork, this recipe is lighter and quicker to prepare, yet it doesn’t compromise on that rich, satisfying taste. Plus, sliders are always a hit because they’re easy to eat, customizable, and perfect for sharing.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd at your next party, these Pulled Chicken Sliders will become a favorite. The addition of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and creamy contrast, making each slider a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Keep reading to find out exactly how to whip up this delicious meal with straightforward ingredients and simple steps.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the star of the dish, providing lean protein and tenderness.
• 1 cup barbecue sauce – choose your favorite variety, preferably one that’s rich and smoky.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – helps keep the chicken moist and infuses extra flavor.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder – adds a deep, savory aroma.
• 1 tablespoon onion powder – enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – adds a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
• Slider buns – soft and small, perfect for holding the pulled chicken.
• Coleslaw (optional, for topping) – provides a refreshing crunch and creamy balance.

How To Make Pulled Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat each piece evenly to ensure every bite is full of flavor.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a slow cooker or a heavy pot if cooking on the stovetop. Pour the chicken broth and barbecue sauce over the chicken. Cover and let it cook on low heat for about 6-7 hours in a slow cooker, or simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours on the stove until the chicken is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the heat. Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the cooking liquid to keep it moist. Mix well so the chicken absorbs the barbecue sauce and seasoning.

Step 4: Prepare the Slider Buns

Lightly toast the slider buns if desired. This step adds a bit of texture and helps prevent the buns from getting soggy once the pulled chicken is added.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Scoop a generous amount of the pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with a spoonful of coleslaw for added crunch and creaminess if you like. Place the top bun on and press down gently.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Pulled Chicken Sliders warm with your favorite sides, like chips, pickles, or a fresh salad. These sliders are perfect for parties, casual meals, or anytime you want a delicious and easy-to-make dish.

Expert Tips

• Use chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking.
• Don’t skip the chicken broth; it keeps the meat juicy and flavorful during slow cooking.
• If you prefer, use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a teaspoon of honey to the barbecue sauce.
• Toast the slider buns lightly on a griddle or in the oven to add texture and prevent sogginess.
• Allow the pulled chicken to rest in the sauce for 10 minutes after shredding to absorb more flavor.
• Use two forks for shredding to get perfect, tender strands of chicken.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Pulled Chicken Sliders: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sweet and Tangy: Mix in a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to the barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
• Cheesy Sliders: Top each slider with a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese before adding coleslaw for a melty, savory twist.
• Different Slaws: Swap classic coleslaw for a vinegar-based slaw or even a crunchy apple slaw for a fresh variation.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley to the pulled chicken before serving.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe is naturally free from any non-permitted ingredients and fits well into a balanced diet. For those seeking lower sodium options, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and barbecue sauce. If you want to reduce calories, use whole wheat or smaller slider buns, or substitute coleslaw with a lighter cucumber salad. To make it dairy-free, simply omit cheese toppings if you decide to add them as a variation. The recipe is also high in protein and can easily be paired with fresh vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Pulled Chicken Sliders can be stored easily for later enjoyment. Transfer the pulled chicken (without buns) to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop to keep the chicken moist. Slider buns are best stored separately in a bread box or sealed bag to maintain freshness. If you have assembled sliders leftover, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate, though the buns may become slightly soggy. For longer storage, freeze the pulled chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make Pulled Chicken Sliders without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken breasts in a heavy pot on the stovetop. Simmer the chicken with the broth and barbecue sauce on low heat, covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the chicken is tender enough to shred.

What type of barbecue sauce works best in this recipe?

Choose a barbecue sauce that you enjoy, preferably one with a rich, smoky flavor. Sweet and tangy sauces work well, but you can also opt for spicy or mustard-based sauces depending on your preference.

Can I prepare Pulled Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook and shred the chicken a day ahead and keep it refrigerated in the sauce. When ready to serve, just warm it up and assemble the sliders with fresh buns and coleslaw.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free slider buns or substitute the buns with lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option. Just be sure your barbecue sauce is also gluten-free by checking the label.

Conclusion

Pulled Chicken Sliders are an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. With tender, slow-cooked chicken drenched in smoky barbecue sauce and the option to add crunchy coleslaw, these sliders offer a delicious balance of tastes and textures. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe guarantees a hit every time. The simplicity of the ingredients and straightforward cooking method make Pulled Chicken Sliders a must-try recipe to have in your culinary arsenal. So grab your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker or stovetop, and enjoy these irresistible sliders today!

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