Go Back
Smoky Sweet BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders are the quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering, cheering on your favorite team during game day, or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. At the heart of this dish lies tender, slow-cooked chicken infused with a robust smoky BBQ sauce, complemented by a refreshing coleslaw that adds a delightful crunch.

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders

Delight your guests with Smoky Sweet BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders, a comfort food favorite that's perfect for any occasion. Featuring tender, slow-cooked chicken smothered in rich BBQ sauce and topped with crunchy coleslaw, these sliders are both delicious and versatile. Whether served as appetizers or part of a buffet, they are sure to impress. Discover tips on preparing, shredding, assembling, and customizing these sliders to elevate your entertaining game.

Ingredients
  

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or your favorite brand)

1 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

12 slider buns

1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)

Pickles, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Add the chicken thighs and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.

    Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step enhances the flavor by creating a nice crust on the chicken.

      Cook in Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared chicken to a slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds apart.

        Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

          Mix with Sauce: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix it well with the remaining BBQ sauce. Allow it to simmer on low for an additional 15-20 minutes to soak in the flavors.

            Assemble the Sliders: Slice the slider buns in half. Spoon a generous amount of pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw for a crunchy texture and add pickles if desired.

              Serve: Place the top half of the slider buns over the chicken and coleslaw. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Smoky Sweet BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes | Servings: 12 sliders