Baked BBQ Chicken Sliders: A Family Favorite

Introduction

Baked BBQ chicken sliders have quickly become a staple in my household. The combination of tender, shredded chicken slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, nestled between sweet Hawaiian rolls and topped with melty cheese, creates a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also a surefire hit with my family. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these sliders are always met with smiles and satisfied appetites. I love how simple it is to make, yet the flavors are complex enough to feel like a special treat. Plus, there’s something about finger food that brings everyone together around the table.

Ingredients

• 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian sweet slider rolls
• 2 to 2 ½ cups shredded chicken (cooked, rotisserie works great)
• ⅔ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 6 slices Cooper® Sharp Yellow Pasteurized Process American Cheese (or white cheese)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce and mix until all the chicken is well coated.
3. Use a bread knife to cut the rolls in half horizontally and remove the top. Place the bottom halves of the rolls on a baking pan.
4. Add the BBQ chicken to the rolls in an even layer, ensuring all sliders are covered.
5. Top the chicken with the slices of Cooper® cheese. Place the tops of the slider rolls back on and press down gently.
6. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and garlic powder. Brush the tops of the slider rolls with the melted butter mixture. Cover the baking dish with foil.
7. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 sliders
• Calories per serving: Approximately 210 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the sliders warm, fresh out of the oven.
• Pair with sides like coleslaw, potato chips, or a garden salad.
• Offer additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
• Garnish with pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Consider serving with a variety of cheeses for added flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken.
2. Customize the BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor profile—smoky, sweet, or spicy.
3. Add Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped onions or bell peppers into the chicken mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
4. Mix Cheeses: Try different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy twist or cheddar for a classic flavor.
5. Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the sliders as they bake to prevent them from getting too brown.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy BBQ Chicken Sliders: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for some heat.
• Pulled Pork Sliders: Substitute shredded chicken with pulled pork for a different BBQ flavor.
• Veggie Sliders: Replace chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a vegetarian option.
• Cheesy BBQ Chicken Sliders: Add extra layers of cheese for an even cheesier experience.
• Hawaiian BBQ Sliders: Mix in crushed pineapple with the chicken for a sweet and tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• With Drinks: Pair sliders with refreshing beverages like lemonade, iced tea, or craft beer.
• At Parties: Serve on a platter at parties or game days for easy serving.
• As Appetizers: Cut the sliders in half for smaller bites, perfect for appetizers at gatherings.
• With Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, blue cheese, or additional BBQ sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked sliders. Prepare the sliders, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover baked sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use beef instead of chicken?

• Yes! You can substitute shredded beef or pulled pork for a different flavor profile.

1. What type of BBQ sauce should I use?

• Use your favorite BBQ sauce—sweet, tangy, or spicy!

1. How can I make these sliders healthier?

• Use whole-grain slider rolls, lean chicken, and a lower-sugar BBQ sauce.

1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

• Yes, prepare them up to the baking step and store in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

1. What should I serve with sliders?

• Consider sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or chips for a complete meal.

1. Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Use sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions instead of chicken.

1. How long do leftovers last?

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I reheat the sliders?

• Yes, reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

1. What cheese works best for these sliders?

• Cooper® Sharp is delicious, but you can use any melty cheese you prefer.

1. Is it possible to make these sliders spicy?
   • Yes! Add diced jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce to the chicken mixture.

Conclusion

Baked BBQ chicken sliders are more than just a meal; they’re a comforting experience that brings the family together. Their simplicity and versatility make them perfect for any occasion—be it a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a dish that everyone will love. Plus, the possibilities for customization are endless, allowing you to tailor the sliders to your family’s preferences. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home!

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