Save to Pinterest Tender BBQ chicken sliders piled high with tangy coleslaw have become my go—to for casual gatherings and lazy weekends. Each bite delivers smoky sweet saucy chicken with a crunchy refreshing slaw on the softest buns—it is that perfect mix of messy and irresistible. Whether you are serving a crowd or just want something special for dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes.
The first time I made this was for an impromptu backyard get—together—we ran out way before the party ended. Now I always make extra because my family begs for them again the next day.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: provide juicy flavorful meat that absorbs barbecue sauce beautifully
- Barbecue sauce: gives the chicken a sweet savory and smoky finish use your favorite brand or homemade
- Coleslaw mix: typically cabbage and carrots adds crunchy texture and color look for bags with crisp fresh shreds
- Mayonnaise: brings creaminess to the slaw and balances the tang choose high—quality real mayonnaise for best results
- Apple cider vinegar: brightens everything and brings zippy acid to the salad try to use a vinegar with a live mother for extra flavor
- Sugar: rounds out the sharpness in the slaw but you can use honey for a different sweetness
- Salt and pepper: to season the slaw and let the veggies shine
- Slider buns: soft pillowy buns work best warm them slightly for extra comfort
- For barbecue sauce and buns you get more depth if you pick brands with a short ingredient list or local artisan options
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Add boneless chicken thighs to your slow cooker nestling them so they are evenly spread. Pour barbecue sauce completely over the top ensuring every piece gets coated. Set the cooker to low for four to five hours or high for two to three hours. Chicken should be fork—tender and shred easily when ready
- Make the Tangy Coleslaw:
- In a large bowl whisk together mayonnaise apple cider vinegar sugar salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. Toss in the coleslaw mix and stir until every shred is coated thoroughly. Taste and tweak seasoning if needed. Let it rest while the chicken finishes so the flavors meld
- Shred the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked use two forks to pull it apart right in the slow cooker. Mix the juicy shreds well with the barbecue sauce lingering in the pot so nothing gets wasted. Chicken should look moist and glistening
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Lay out your slider buns and gently open them. Pile a generous heaping of warm BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each bun. Scoop a spoonful of crunchy coleslaw on top. Crown them with the top bun and gently press down. Serve right away for the best textures
Save to Pinterest Nothing beats the juicy tang of BBQ chicken paired with the crunch of cold slaw. Using boneless chicken thighs makes all the difference in moisture. I still remember my dad sneaking leftover coleslaw spoonfuls from the bowl while assembling these—they always vanished faster than anything else on the table.
Storage Tips
Leftover chicken and slaw should be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Chicken will stay good for up to four days and the slaw keeps fresh for two. Reheat the chicken gently on the stovetop or in a microwave before assembling for the best results. Buns are best stored at room temperature in a sealed bag to preserve softness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken breast works if you prefer a leaner option but check for doneness as it cooks faster. Swap in spicy barbecue sauce or add a few dashes of hot sauce for extra zing. Vegan mayonnaise and gluten—free buns keep this recipe crowd—friendly. Purple cabbage adds color and a little nutty taste if you find some at your market.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are perfect paired with crispy potato wedges sweet corn or a light salad. For parties set up a build—your—own slider bar with pickles jalapenos and different slaw varieties. They also fit right in alongside baked beans or a cold pasta salad for picnic vibes.
Cultural Context
BBQ pulled chicken is a classic at summer gatherings all across the southern United States. Sliders have become a cross—generational favorite because they make serving easy and fun. Coleslaw’s cooling crunch tames spicy barbecue and has been a staple on southern tables for generations.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add thinly sliced apples or fennel to the slaw in autumn. Mix in a few sprigs of fresh dill or parsley in spring for bright flavor. Try peach or apricot barbecue sauce in summer for a fruity twist.
Success Stories
My neighbor borrowed this recipe for her son’s graduation picnic. She said people raved so much she handed out recipe cards at the end. I have served these at Super Bowl parties and even as a weeknight treat for our family and it is always a guaranteed hit.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Prepare the barbecue chicken as written then portion the shredded meat into freezer—safe bags with a drizzle of extra sauce. Freeze for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge or gently reheat from frozen on the stovetop. Slaw should always be freshly tossed before serving.
Save to Pinterest Make extra because these vanish fast. This recipe always brings people together—enjoy every bite.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I make the chicken extra tender?
Cook chicken thighs on low in a slow cooker for 4-5 hours. This ensures they shred easily and stay juicy.
- → Can I prepare the coleslaw in advance?
Yes, mix the coleslaw up to a day ahead. Store it covered in the fridge and stir before using for best texture.
- → Are there gluten-free options for this dish?
Substitute regular slider buns with gluten-free varieties and check condiment labels for gluten content.
- → What sides complement these sliders?
Serve with sweet potato fries, pickles, or a simple salad to round out the flavors and textures.
- → Can I add extra flavor to the barbecue sauce?
Mix in hot sauce, smoked paprika, or a dash of honey to customize the barbecue sauce to your taste.
- → Can another protein be used instead of chicken?
Pulled pork or jackfruit can be substituted for chicken, allowing for different flavors and dietary needs.