If you’re looking for a fun and delicious twist on classic sliders, these Wichita Chicken Sliders are just what you need. They’re perfect for game day, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for easy-to-eat, crowd-pleasing food. Juicy chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and melty cheese come together on a soft slider bun for the ultimate handheld meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy chicken – Tender, flavorful chicken with the perfect blend of spices.
Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable – Add your favorite toppings or sauces to suit your taste.
Perfect for any occasion – Great for parties, picnics, or casual family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Slider buns
Pickles (optional)
Fresh cilantro (optional)

Full list of ingredients with measurements can be found below.

Directions

Season and Cook the Chicken

First, season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Add BBQ Sauce

Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and pour in your favorite BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Assemble the Sliders

While the chicken is simmering, slice the slider buns in half. Place the bottom halves of the buns on a baking sheet. Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture onto the buns, and then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake

Place the sliders in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are slightly toasted.

Add Toppings

Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and add any extra toppings you like. I recommend pickles and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor, but feel free to get creative!

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use chicken thighs for extra flavor – If you want extra juicy, flavorful sliders, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
Make it spicy – Add some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top of the BBQ chicken for a spicy kick.
Make ahead – You can make the BBQ chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it and assemble the sliders.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Different cheese – While cheddar cheese is delicious, you can swap it out for pepper jack for a spicier version or even mozzarella for a more mild flavor.
Swap the buns – If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can serve the BBQ chicken on lettuce wraps instead of slider buns.
Add extra toppings – Feel free to add toppings like sliced avocado, caramelized onions, or coleslaw for added texture and flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Wichita Chicken Sliders are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with some sides:

Serve them with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or classic French fries.
A simple green salad or tangy coleslaw would complement these sliders beautifully.
For drinks, a cold iced tea or lemonade would be a refreshing pairing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftovers – Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating – Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, and then assemble the sliders just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce before assembling the sliders.

Can I make these sliders in advance?
You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store the chicken in the fridge, and assemble the sliders just before serving.

Can I freeze the BBQ chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the BBQ chicken mixture for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.

Can I use other types of buns?
Absolutely! Feel free to use whole wheat buns, brioche buns, or even gluten-free buns for a different twist.

Conclusion

These Wichita Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and spicy, all in one easy-to-make meal. They’re a hit for any occasion and sure to be loved by all ages. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a casual dinner, or just craving something delicious, these sliders are always a great choice!

Wichita Chicken Sliders: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Sliders

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These Wichita Chicken Sliders bring together juicy chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese on soft slider buns, offering a delicious twist on traditional sliders. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or casual dinners.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 10 sliders 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Fried, Baked
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Season and Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for a few minutes. Shred with two forks into bite-sized pieces.
Add BBQ Sauce: Return shredded chicken to skillet, pour in BBQ sauce, and simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Assemble the Sliders: Slice slider buns in half and place the bottoms on a baking sheet. Spoon BBQ chicken mixture onto buns and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake: Place sliders in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and buns are lightly toasted.
Add Toppings: Remove sliders from the oven and add optional pickles and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
For extra spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the BBQ chicken.
Make ahead by prepping the BBQ chicken in advance and refrigerating it for up to 2 days.