BBQ Chicken Sliders with Slaw (Print)

Mini buns filled with tender pulled BBQ chicken and tangy cabbage slaw. Ideal for parties and casual gatherings.

# Components:

→ 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

→ Creamy 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)

# Directions:

01 - Combine chicken, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large pot or slow cooker. Cook over medium heat for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender. Remove chicken and shred with two forks, then return to the sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
02 - Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots. Toss until evenly coated and set aside.
03 - Brush mini slider buns with melted butter and toast in a skillet or oven until golden brown, approximately 2–3 minutes.
04 - Place a generous spoonful of pulled BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with a scoop of coleslaw and cover with the bun top. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The contrast between warm, tangy chicken and crisp, cool slaw makes every bite feel complete.
  • They come together faster than you think and feed a crowd without stress.
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully, and the slaw stays crunchy for hours.
02 -
  • Do not skip shredding the chicken while it is still warm; it falls apart effortlessly and absorbs more sauce.
  • Make the slaw at least 15 minutes ahead so the flavors meld and the cabbage softens just a bit.
03 -
  • Brush the inside of the buns with a little BBQ sauce before adding the chicken for extra flavor in every bite.
  • Use a fork to fluff the slaw just before serving so it looks fresh and stays crisp.
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