These Smoked BBQ Chicken Sliders are a real treat! Tender chicken soaked in smoky BBQ flavor and piled high on small, soft buns make for a snack you can’t resist.
Honestly, who can say no to a mini sandwich dripping with tasty sauce? I love serving them with extra napkins—things can get a little messy, but hey, that’s half the fun! 😂
They’re quick to make, perfect for parties or just a cozy dinner at home. Just smoke the chicken, shred it, mix with BBQ sauce, and pile on the buns. Easy and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. However, you can use thighs for a juicier option. They’re a bit fattier and more flavorful!
BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce you love! If you’re looking for a healthier option, homemade or low-sugar kinds are perfect. For a different twist, try mustard-based or vinegar BBQ sauces.
Smoked Paprika: It adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, but you won’t get the same smokiness. You can also use a dash of liquid smoke as a substitute.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are excellent. If you’re craving something different, try pepper jack for a kick or Gouda for a rich taste. Non-dairy cheese can also work if you have a dairy allergy.
Buns: While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you could swap for whole wheat or gluten-free buns to fit your dietary needs.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding the chicken is key for these sliders. Letting it rest for 10 minutes after smoking makes it easier to shred and prevents dryness. Follow these steps:
- Use two forks to pull apart the chicken, going against the grain for the best texture.
- Make sure to shred when the chicken is warm; it’s much easier!
- After shredding, mix it with BBQ sauce quickly while the chicken is still warm to absorb flavors better.
This technique gives your sliders a moist, flavorful base.
How to Make Smoked BBQ Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Assembling the Sliders:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 12 slider buns (Hawaiian or dinner rolls)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 2-3 hours to cook the chicken in the smoker, plus about 30 minutes for preparation and assembly. In total, you’ll be looking at around 2.5 to 3 hours for these delicious BBQ sliders!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your pellet smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low temperature will help infuse the chicken with that wonderful smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well. Now, take this flavorful mixture and rub it all over the chicken breasts to ensure they are evenly coated.
3. Smoke the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your preheated smoker. Let them smoke for about 2-3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This is when they’ll be perfectly cooked and juicy!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. After resting, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Mix with BBQ Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce. Make sure to mix it thoroughly so every piece is covered in that delicious sauce!
6. Assemble the Sliders:
Cut the slider buns in half. On the bottom half of each bun, evenly distribute the BBQ chicken mixture. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken to add some tasty cheesy goodness.
7. Top and Prepare for Smoking Again:
Place the top halves of the slider buns on the cheese. If you like, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an extra touch.
8. Melt the Cheese:
Return the assembled sliders to the smoker for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will melt the cheese and give the buns a slight toasting, making them even more delicious!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the sliders from the smoker and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your fantastic smoked BBQ chicken sliders!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead of Boneless Breasts?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in chicken, just adjust the smoking time to about 4-5 hours to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The meat will be juicy and flavorful, but make sure to let it cool before shredding.
What Other BBQ Sauces Can I Use?
You can experiment with different BBQ sauces! Try using spicy, honey-infused, or even a mustard-based sauce for a twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary based on your choice!
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, assemble the sliders and warm them in the smoker or oven until the cheese melts.
How to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the oven or smoker at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy them like new!
