BBQ Deli Chicken Sliders Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a casual meal that will have everyone asking for seconds, this BBQ Deli Chicken Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, thinly sliced deli chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, layered with sharp cheddar, crispy fried onions, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls and baked until golden and melty. These sliders combine the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors wrapped up in a convenient, handheld delight that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whipping up these sliders is delightfully straightforward, and each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the perfect bite. From the fluffy Hawaiian rolls to the zesty BBQ sauce, every component adds a unique texture and flavor that makes this BBQ Deli Chicken Sliders Recipe irresistible.

• Hawaiian rolls (16 oz package): Their soft, slightly sweet bread forms the perfect slider base that balances the smoky flavors.
• Deli chicken (1 lb, thinly sliced): Tender and pre-cooked, makes assembly quick and easy while keeping the sliders juicy.
• Sharp cheddar cheese (6 slices): Adds a creamy and tangy element that melts beautifully over the chicken.
• BBQ sauce (3/4 cup): The star of the show, providing that classic tangy and smoky BBQ flavor.
• French fried onions (1 cup): Crispy and flavorful, they bring a delightful crunch contrasting the soft buns.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Used to create a luscious glaze on top of the buns for a golden finish.
• Maple syrup (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the BBQ sauce.
• Minced dried onion (2 teaspoons): Enhances the savory notes in the butter glaze.
• Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses a mild smoky depth to the topping mixture.
• Poppy seeds (1 teaspoon): Adds visual appeal and a delicate crunch.
• Fresh minced parsley (½ tablespoon): A bright, fresh garnish to finish the sliders with a pop of green.
• Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy clean-up.

How to Make BBQ Deli Chicken Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray, which helps prevent the delicious sliders from sticking and makes for an easy release once baked.

Step 2: Assemble the Base Layer

Carefully slice your whole sheet of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half snugly into the prepared baking dish, creating a soft and slightly sweet foundation that will absorb the wonderful flavors from the filling.

Step 3: Layer the Chicken and Cheese

Arrange the thinly sliced deli chicken evenly over the bottom buns. Next, layer the sharp cheddar cheese slices atop the chicken, allowing everything to melt and meld together during baking for a gooey, satisfying bite.

Step 4: Add Crunch and Sauce

Generously sprinkle the cup of crispy French fried onions over the cheese. Follow that with drizzling or spreading the ¾ cup of BBQ sauce on top, infusing each slider with tangy, smoky flavor and delightful texture contrasts.

Step 5: Cap with the Top Buns

Place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls over your assembled layers, gently pressing down to create perfect little sandwich pockets filled with all those mouthwatering layers.

Step 6: Brush on the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with maple syrup, minced dried onion, smoked paprika, and poppy seeds. Brush this vibrant glaze generously over the tops of the slider buns to add sweetness, savory notes, and a golden, slightly crispy finish once baked.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover the entire baking dish tightly with foil and pop it into the oven. Let it bake for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt fully and the sliders to warm through thoroughly.

Step 8: Final Toast

Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 5 minutes. This step crisps up the tops, giving the buns that irresistible golden brown color and just the right amount of crunch.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the freshly minced parsley over your warm sliders for a fresh, aromatic finish. Serve them immediately to enjoy the blend of textures and flavors at their best. Your BBQ Deli Chicken Sliders Recipe is now ready to impress!

How to Serve BBQ Deli Chicken Sliders Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet perfect garnish for these sliders because it adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness that lifts the rich, smoky flavors. You can also experiment with a light drizzle of extra BBQ sauce or a few pickle slices for an extra tangy bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your sliders with classic sides like crisp coleslaw, baked beans, or crunchy dill pickles to complement the hearty savory notes. For a lighter option, a fresh garden salad or grilled veggies will balance the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving these sliders on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment for a charming, casual vibe perfect for gatherings. You can also skewer each slider with a decorative toothpick or mini flag for easy grabbing and added fun presentation at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These BBQ Deli Chicken Sliders keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. They actually taste great reheated and make for a quick lunch or snack the next day.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the sliders, it’s best to assemble and bake them first, then cool completely before wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. They can freeze for up to 1 month and still retain their flavor and texture when reheated.

Reheating

To bring your sliders back to life, preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, cover the sliders with foil, and warm them for about 10-15 minutes. This gentle reheating melts the cheese and keeps the buns soft without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of deli chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor and juiciness. Just shred it thinly and layer it like in the original recipe for fantastic results.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

A smoky and slightly sweet BBQ sauce pairs best with these sliders, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version to suit your taste preferences.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for the chicken?

You could swap in thinly sliced grilled portobello mushrooms or a plant-based chicken substitute. Just be sure to layer and bake the same way for a tasty vegetarian twist.

Can I make these sliders smaller or larger?

Yes, you can adjust the size by using smaller or larger buns. Just remember to adjust baking times accordingly, keeping an eye on the cheese melting and bun browning.

How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

Using cooking spray and layering the ingredients as instructed helps prevent sogginess. Also, serving them soon after baking ensures the buns stay soft but not overly moist.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Deli Chicken Sliders Recipe truly hits all the right notes for a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish. It’s a fantastic mix of soft buns, melty cheese, smoky chicken, and crispy toppings that makes every bite exciting and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something comforting and delicious, these sliders are sure to become a favorite in your recipe box. Go ahead, give them a try, and get ready for some serious slider love!

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