BBQ Chicken Sliders

Shredded BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and coleslaw turn Hawaiian rolls into sliders with a sweet, smoky bite. A garlic-butter finish makes them easy to set out for game day or a casual gathering.

Jump to Recipe

Print Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

With sweet Hawaiian rolls, smoky BBQ chicken, creamy coleslaw, and a garlic butter finish, these sliders bring layers of flavor and texture to each bite. They’re perfect for game day, backyard BBQs, or casual family dinners.

Key Ingredients

Cooked chicken and BBQ sauce: Shred the chicken so the filling spreads evenly across the rolls.

Hawaiian rolls and shredded cheese: The sweet rolls hold the filling, and the cheese melts during baking.

Coleslaw and garlic butter: Slaw adds crunch; butter and garlic powder finish the roll tops. Parsley is optional.

Useful Tools

I earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through the Amazon links in this post. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A High Heat Resistant Silicone Basting Brush from my shop helps spread the garlic butter over the connected rolls.

The SnG Food Thermometer from my shop helps check the center when reheating leftover sliders.

A Chef Knife from my shop is useful for cutting the connected rolls and portioning the finished sliders. A steady cutting board and a baking dish that holds the rolls snugly complete the setup.

For prep, Pyrex glass mixing bowls give you room to toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce. Spring Chef measuring cups and spoons help portion the sauce, cheese, and garlic powder before assembly. These are affiliate links.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders

• 1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F and line a tray with parchment or foil.
• 2. Prepare Chicken: Toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.

• 3. Slice Rolls: Cut the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls connected.

• 4. Assemble Sliders: Layer the bottom half with BBQ chicken, shredded cheese, and creamy coleslaw. Place the top half of the rolls back on.

• 5. Butter Topping: Mix melted butter with garlic powder and brush over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle with dried parsley if using.

• 6. Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 5 minutes until the tops are golden.

• 7. Serve: Slice into individual sliders and serve warm.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Toast the rolls slightly before assembling to prevent sogginess.
• Use smoked cheddar for a deeper flavor.
• Add sliced pickles for extra tang.

Storage Tips

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, or within 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F. Store covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to help the buns crisp, and check that the center reaches 165°F before serving.

Advance Preparation Advice

Assemble sliders up to 4 hours ahead, store covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving.

Variations

• Substitute chicken with pulled pork or brisket.
• Use spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.
• Add caramelized onions for extra sweetness.

What to Serve It With

• Baked beans
• Deviled egg macaroni salad
• Potato wedges
• Corn on the cob

Quantity Suggestions for Family Gatherings

One batch makes 12 sliders. Double or triple for larger crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I separate the rolls before filling them?

Keep the slab connected when you slice it horizontally. Add the filling across the bottom half, replace the top, and cut into individual sliders after baking.

Which cheese can I use?

Cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend are the choices in this recipe. Pepper jack brings more heat; cheddar keeps the flavor familiar.

Does the coleslaw go in before baking?

Yes. In this version, the coleslaw is layered with the chicken and cheese before the tops go on. Drain off excess dressing before assembling so the rolls do not sit in liquid.

More AB Recipes for Your Menu

Choose a side or two to go with the sliders, or use these recipes to plan your next gathering. The other mains are separate recipes, not changes to the slider cooking method.

Cookout Sides

• Southern Coleslaw is an option when you want to make the creamy slaw from scratch.
• Cajun Macaroni Salad adds a seasoned pasta side.
• Deviled Egg Potato Salad brings tender potatoes and an egg-yolk dressing.
• Southern Hush Puppies add a crisp cornmeal bite.
• Loaded Baked Potatoes work for a build-your-own side with cheese and toppings.
• Crockpot Mac and Cheese is another cheesy option for a family spread.

Game-Day Snacks

• Smokin’ DUI Fries bring a loaded tray of fries to share.
• Crispy Boudin Balls with Creole Remoulade pair a crunchy coating with a dipping sauce.
• Southern BBQ Baked Bean Dip keeps the barbecue theme going in a scoopable appetizer.
• Loaded BBQ Ranch Potato Wedges offer a topped-potato alternative to plain wedges.
• Dry Rub Air Fried Wings are a separate air-fryer option for the snack table.
• Crispy Cajun Butter Wings bring a Cajun-seasoned wing option.

Another Main for the Next Gathering

• Pulled Pork 101 walks through a longer smoked-pork cook for a different barbecue sandwich.
• Spicy Honey Chicken Skewers offer sweet heat in a handheld chicken dish.
• Beef and Cheese Sandwiches put a creamy beef filling into hoagie rolls.
• Chicken Enchiladas are another way to use cooked rotisserie chicken for dinner.

Something Sweet

Finish the meal with Bananas Foster Banana Pudding. Plan for its chilling time before your guests arrive.

Save This Recipe

Save these BBQ chicken sliders for your next game day or family gathering.