Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe

Introduction

Pulled Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of tender, flavorful chicken piled high on soft, mini buns. These sliders are versatile and make an ideal appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal. With the richness of slow-cooked, seasoned chicken and a variety of delicious toppings, these sliders are sure to impress at your next gathering, game day party, or casual dinner.

The beauty of pulled chicken sliders is that they are incredibly easy to make while still delivering big flavor. Whether you’re using a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or stovetop, the chicken becomes meltingly tender as it soaks up all the spices, and the toppings add a satisfying crunch and creaminess. Whether you’re serving them at a barbecue or making a quick weeknight dinner, these sliders will be a hit with everyone.

Why You’ll Love Pulled Chicken Sliders

• Flavorful and Tender Chicken: The chicken is cooked low and slow, allowing it to absorb the spices and become incredibly tender, making it easy to shred.
• Customizable: You can adjust the toppings and sauces to fit your taste. From tangy barbecue sauce to fresh coleslaw, the possibilities are endless.
• Quick and Easy: These sliders can be made in under an hour using a slow cooker or pressure cooker. You can also prepare them in advance for a hassle-free meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or feeding a crowd, these sliders are perfect for all occasions. They’re great for meal prep, too, and can be made in large batches.
• Mini Sandwiches with Big Flavor: These sliders pack all the deliciousness of a full-sized sandwich but in a bite-sized, portable form. They’re easy to eat and share, making them a fun food option for social gatherings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12 sliders (depending on portion size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 200-250 calories per slider, depending on toppings and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Fat: 8-12g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 15-20g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 5-8g

Ingredients

For the Pulled Chicken:

• 1.5 to 2 pounds (680-900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for spice)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (optional for flavoring)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tang)

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns (mini buns or small sandwich rolls)
• 1 cup coleslaw (optional, for topping)
• 1/2 cup pickles, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Barbecue Sauce (optional):

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken for Cooking

Begin by preparing the chicken. You can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe, depending on your preference. Thighs will give a slightly richer flavor and are more forgiving if overcooked, while breasts provide a leaner option. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.

If you prefer a slow cooker or pressure cooker method, you can prepare the chicken by adding a bit of olive oil to the pot, sautéing onions and garlic for a few minutes until fragrant, and then placing the chicken on top. Alternatively, you can skip this step and simply add the chicken directly to the pot with the chicken broth or water.

2. Cook the Chicken

There are a few ways to cook the chicken:

Slow Cooker Method: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker along with the chopped onion, garlic, and chicken broth (or water). Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will become very tender and easy to shred.

Pressure Cooker (Instant Pot) Method: Set your pressure cooker to the “manual” or “pressure cook” setting. Add the seasoned chicken, onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes and then perform a quick release. The chicken will be cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time.

Stovetop Method: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken, onions, and garlic, and sauté for a few minutes. Add the chicken broth, cover, and cook on low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and easy to shred.

3. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring it soaks up all the flavorful juices from the cooking process. If you used a slow cooker or pressure cooker, you can easily shred the chicken directly in the pot.

If you like your pulled chicken a little saucier, stir in 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar at this stage. The sauce will enhance the flavor of the chicken and make it even juicier. Stir well to combine, and adjust the seasoning to taste.

4. Prepare the Sliders

While the chicken is cooking, prepare your slider buns. Slice each bun in half and lightly toast them in a dry skillet or under the broiler for a minute or two. Toasting the buns helps prevent them from getting soggy once the chicken is added.

You can also customize the buns with some garlic butter or your favorite seasoning before toasting for added flavor.

5. Assemble the Sliders

Once the chicken is shredded and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble your sliders. Take the bottom half of each bun and spoon a generous portion of the pulled chicken mixture onto it. You can top it with your favorite condiments, such as coleslaw, pickles, or cheese. A small handful of shredded cheese can be added on top of the chicken before placing the top half of the bun to create a delicious, gooey layer of melted cheese.

If you prefer, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor and color.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the sliders are assembled, serve them immediately. You can arrange them on a platter, or if you’re serving a large crowd, you can use a baking dish to keep them warm in the oven until ready to serve. These sliders are perfect for parties, family dinners, or as a tasty snack for game day.

Tips for Perfect Pulled Chicken Sliders

• Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Moisture: While chicken breasts are a lean option, chicken thighs will yield more flavorful and juicy pulled chicken. If you prefer a leaner version, opt for chicken breasts but be sure to monitor the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
• Make Your Own Barbecue Sauce: If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own barbecue sauce. Homemade sauces can be customized to your liking with ingredients like honey, brown sugar, vinegar, and various spices to create the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
• Add Spices to the Chicken: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the seasonings. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. Adjust the seasoning to your taste for a unique flavor.
• Toppings are Key: The toppings on your sliders can make a huge difference in flavor and texture. Coleslaw adds a creamy crunch, while pickles bring a tangy contrast. You can also use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh, vibrant topping.
• Make Ahead: Pulled chicken can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Simply reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling the sliders.

Variations of Pulled Chicken Sliders

• Buffalo Chicken Sliders: For a spicy twist, toss the shredded chicken in buffalo sauce instead of barbecue sauce. Top with blue cheese crumbles and celery for a flavor-packed slider.
• Caribbean Pulled Chicken Sliders: Add some tropical flair by using a jerk seasoning on the chicken. After shredding, mix in some pineapple salsa or mango chutney for a sweet and spicy twist.
• BBQ Pulled Chicken with Avocado: Make your sliders extra creamy by adding sliced avocado or guacamole as a topping. The creaminess of the avocado pairs wonderfully with the smoky barbecue chicken.
• Asian Pulled Chicken Sliders: For a different take, use a soy sauce and ginger-based marinade for the chicken. Top with a quick pickled cucumber slaw and drizzle with a little sriracha sauce for added heat.

Storage and Shelf Life

Pulled

Chicken Sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. To store, place the leftover pulled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the shredded chicken for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For the assembled sliders, it’s best to store them without the toppings and buns to avoid sogginess. You can store the chicken and buns separately and assemble the sliders when you’re ready to serve them.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Pulled Chicken Sliders

Pair these sliders with complementary sides to create a complete meal:

• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries are a classic pairing with sliders. Sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness to balance the savory chicken.
• Coleslaw: A fresh, tangy coleslaw is the perfect accompaniment to the rich, savory flavors of the pulled chicken. The crunchiness of the slaw adds great texture.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve these sliders with grilled vegetables like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers for a healthy and colorful side dish.
• Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad pairs well with the smoky flavor of the pulled chicken, adding a nice contrast in texture.

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Conclusion

Pulled Chicken Sliders are a simple, delicious dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just looking for a quick meal, these sliders are versatile, easy to make, and full of flavor. The combination of tender, shredded chicken and customizable toppings ensures that these sliders are a hit every time. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish in no time. Enjoy the flavor-packed goodness of pulled chicken sliders—they’ll quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire!