BBQ Chicken Sliders with Tangy Slaw (Printable)

Tender pulled BBQ chicken and crunchy slaw nestled in mini buns. Ideal for entertaining or weeknight dinners.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Pulled BBQ Chicken

01 - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 - 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for serving
03 - 1/2 cup chicken broth
04 - 1 tbsp olive oil
05 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
06 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
07 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
08 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Coleslaw

09 - 2 cups shredded green cabbage
10 - 1 cup shredded red cabbage
11 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
12 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
13 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
14 - 1 tsp honey
15 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Assembly

16 - 12 mini slider buns
17 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a large pot or slow cooker, combine chicken, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Add shredded cabbages and carrots, then toss until evenly coated. Set aside.
03 - Brush buns with melted butter and toast in a skillet over medium-high heat or in a 350°F oven until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes.
04 - Place a generous spoonful of pulled BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a scoop of coleslaw. Cover with bun tops and serve immediately.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The slaw adds a crisp, tangy contrast that keeps each bite from feeling too heavy or sweet.
  • You can prep the chicken ahead and assemble right before serving, making hosting feel effortless.
  • They disappear fast, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying the party.
02 -
  • Don't skip shredding the chicken while it's still warm, it pulls apart much easier and absorbs the sauce better.
  • Make the slaw at least 15 minutes ahead so the flavors can meld together and the cabbage softens just a bit.
03 -
  • Use chicken thighs instead of breasts if you want the meat to stay extra juicy and flavorful.
  • Let the assembled sliders sit for a minute before serving so the slaw settles into the chicken and the flavors come together.
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