Slow Cooker Pulled BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe for Easy Meals

Why You’ll Love This Pulled Chicken Sliders

Pulled Chicken Sliders are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal without much hassle. Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmered in a flavorful sauce, piled high on soft buns, and topped with crisp coleslaw for the perfect bite. This recipe stands out because it’s simple yet packed with taste, making it ideal for home cooks, busy parents, and food enthusiasts alike.

This dish shines in its ease of preparation, requiring just a slow cooker and a few basic steps to create something special. You’ll appreciate how it delivers health benefits through lean protein from chicken, which supports muscle growth and provides essential nutrients. Plus, its versatility means you can tweak it for different diets or occasions, turning it into a go-to option for family dinners or casual gatherings.

One of the best parts is the distinctive flavor profile from a blend of spices and sauces that make every slider memorable. Whether you’re a student short on time or a working professional needing a quick meal, these sliders offer a satisfying, flavorful experience. For more ideas on easy recipes, check out our guide on simple weeknight dinners that fit into your busy life.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

The main ingredients in Pulled Chicken Sliders contribute to a balanced diet. Chicken thighs provide high-quality protein that’s rich in vitamins, helping with overall wellness. Spices like smoked paprika add a nutritional boost with antioxidants, while vegetables in the coleslaw offer fiber and vitamins. This makes the sliders not just tasty but also a smart choice for diet-conscious individuals.

According to experts, chicken is a lean protein that aids in weight management and muscle repair. For instance, eating foods like these can promote heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels, as highlighted in resources about health benefits of chicken.

Don’t overlook the coleslaw, which includes cabbage that supports digestion and immune function. These elements combine to make Pulled Chicken Sliders a wholesome meal that fits various lifestyles.

Essential Ingredients for Pulled Chicken Sliders

To make Pulled Chicken Sliders, you’ll need a specific set of ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering dish. This section lists everything required, ensuring you have exactly what you need for success. By following this structured list, you’ll prepare the recipe with precision and ease.

The Complete Ingredient List

• 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1 cup ketchup
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 24 potato slider rolls or mini ciabatta rolls
• 3 cups coleslaw

These ingredients form the foundation of your Pulled Chicken Sliders, with chicken thighs chosen for their moisture and rich flavor. Water plays a key role in achieving the perfect sauce consistency, and there’s no tomato paste needed here for simplicity.

Why These Ingredients Work

Each item in the list contributes to the overall taste and texture of the sliders. For example, the spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper add a kick that elevates the BBQ flavor without overwhelming the dish. If you’re adapting for dietary needs, remember that chicken breasts can substitute for thighs if you want something leaner, as noted in our section on variations.

This setup makes preparation straightforward, especially for busy parents or students. With these on hand, you’ll create a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious, aligning with the blog’s focus on simple, accessible recipes.

How to Prepare the Perfect Pulled Chicken Sliders: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting Pulled Chicken Sliders right is all about following a clear, step-by-step process that anyone can master. Start by gathering your ingredients and tools, like a slow cooker, to make the cooking seamless. This method ensures tender, flavorful chicken every time, perfect for easy meals.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your slow cooker on the brown or sauté function. Season the 3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and sear the chicken pieces on both sides in batches if needed.
2. Remove the chicken and add the chopped onion to the cooker or skillet. Sauté for a few minutes, then stir in ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder, and ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes to release the flavors.
3. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup ketchup, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup water, and a bit of salt. Return the chicken to the slow cooker, pour this sauce mixture over the chicken to coat all pieces evenly, and cover with the lid.
4. Slow cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 8 hours, keeping the lid closed for the best results to retain moisture and flavor.
5. Once the chicken is tender, shred it using forks or tongs and stir it back into the sauce for even coating.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing about 2 tablespoons of the pulled chicken onto each of the 24 potato slider rolls or mini ciabatta rolls, and top with 3 cups of coleslaw. Serve warm for the ultimate taste.

Preparation takes about 30 minutes, with cooking time of 4 hours on high or 8 on low, bringing the total time to roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes. This approach works well for working professionals who need meals that cook themselves.

Tips for Best Results

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly before cooking. If you’re in a rush, a pressure cooker can cut down the time, though you might need to reduce the sauce afterward. Remember, soft rolls like potato ones should be warmed gently before serving to enhance the experience.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Pulled Chicken Sliders

Pulled Chicken Sliders can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences, making them versatile for everyone from newlyweds to seniors. By swapping a few items, you keep the dish delicious while meeting specific needs. This flexibility ensures the recipe remains a favorite across different lifestyles.

Options for Protein and More

• Substitute chicken thighs with shredded jackfruit or chickpeas for a vegan option.
• Use turkey breast or pork shoulder as alternative proteins for a different taste.
• Replace chicken with tofu or seitan to boost plant-based elements.
• For sauces, swap with buffalo sauce or spicy mustard to vary flavors.
• Add vegetables like avocado slices or roasted peppers for freshness.
• Adjust seasonings with smoked paprika or cumin to match preferences.

These changes help make the sliders gluten-free or low-calorie, as mentioned in earlier notes. Chicken thighs are preferred for moisture, but breasts work if you’re watching calories, aligning with tips from our healthy cooking tips section.

Mastering Pulled Chicken Sliders: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basic recipe, dive into advanced techniques to elevate your Pulled Chicken Sliders. These tips help you experiment and create variations that suit your taste, whether for baking enthusiasts or travelers seeking portable meals. Let’s explore how to take this dish to the next level.

Pro Techniques and Ideas

• Use sous-vide to cook chicken evenly and keep it juicy before shredding.
• Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor that makes each bite pop.
• Try different barbecue sauces like honey mustard or spicy chipotle for unique profiles.
• Serve on mini boards with fresh cilantro and coleslaw for an appealing presentation.
• Prepare in bulk and freeze portions for quick meals on busy days.

Pulled chicken’s versatility means it works in tacos or quesadillas, as noted in the additional details. For more inspiration, benefits of cabbage in coleslaw can add crunch, as discussed in benefits of cabbage resources.

How to Store Pulled Chicken Sliders: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Pulled Chicken Sliders fresh and tasty for later enjoyment. By following these guidelines, you maintain quality whether refrigerating or freezing. This is especially useful for busy parents or students planning meals ahead.

• Store pulled chicken and buns separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Freeze pulled chicken in portions for up to 3 months, thawing overnight before use.
• Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of moisture to avoid drying.
• Assemble sliders just before serving to prevent soggy buns.

Leftover chicken freezes well when stored flat, and it’s great for other dishes like sandwiches. This method ensures you always have a quick option ready.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Pulled Chicken Sliders

Pulled Chicken Sliders

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🍗 Enjoy tender, flavorful pulled chicken made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for quick and satisfying meals.
🍔 These sliders combine savory BBQ chicken with fresh coleslaw for a delicious handheld treat ideal for any occasion.

• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 24 sliders 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 onion, chopped

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon dry mustard powder

½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

1 cup ketchup

¼ cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

¼ cup apple cider vinegar

¼ cup water

24 potato slider rolls or mini ciabatta rolls

3 cups coleslaw

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Instructions

1-Preheat your slow cooker on the brown or sauté function. Season the 3 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and sear the chicken pieces on both sides in batches if needed.

2-Remove the chicken and add the chopped onion to the cooker or skillet. Sauté for a few minutes, then stir in ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder, and ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes to release the flavors.

3-In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup ketchup, ¼ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup water, and a bit of salt. Return the chicken to the slow cooker, pour this sauce mixture over the chicken to coat all pieces evenly, and cover with the lid.

4-Slow cook on HIGH for 4 hours or on LOW for 8 hours, keeping the lid closed for the best results to retain moisture and flavor.

5-Once the chicken is tender, shred it using forks or tongs and stir it back into the sauce for even coating.

6-Assemble the sliders by placing about 2 tablespoons of the pulled chicken onto each of the 24 potato slider rolls or mini ciabatta rolls, and top with 3 cups of coleslaw. Serve warm for the ultimate taste.

Last Step:

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Notes

🍖 Use chicken thighs for moist and flavorful meat; chicken breasts can be substituted but may be drier.
🔒 Keep slow cooker lid closed during cooking for best results.
❄️ Leftover pulled chicken freezes well when stored flat in sealed bags.

• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 8 hours (low)
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slider
• Calories: 206
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 357 mg
• Fat: 3 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 48 mg