Effortless Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion
Prepare to delight your taste buds with these absolutely irresistible BBQ chicken sliders! Featuring succulent, tangy shredded chicken nestled between soft mini buns, these handheld treats are a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Forget spending hours over the stove; our recipe leverages the magic of the pressure cooker, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that’s bursting with flavor and unbelievably easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe
These BBQ chicken sliders are more than just a quick meal; they’re a party in every bite! We’ve taken our incredibly popular Instant Pot BBQ chicken and adapted it into miniature form, creating the perfect appetizer or light meal for potlucks, game day parties, summer barbecues, or even a fun weeknight dinner. Each slider is generously loaded with tender, juicy shredded chicken, lovingly coated in a rich, smoky, and perfectly tangy barbecue sauce. Just pile that delectable mixture onto a soft slider bun, and you’re all set for a crowd-pleasing experience.
What truly makes this recipe shine is its incredible ease and efficiency. The pressure cooker does most of the heavy lifting, ensuring the chicken cooks to fall-apart perfection in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. Don’t be deterred by the “pressure cooker” aspect – the prep time includes the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come up to pressure and the natural release, making this a surprisingly hands-off and straightforward process. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these flavor-packed sliders come together, leaving you more time to enjoy with your guests or family.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Chicken Sliders
Crafting these amazing BBQ chicken sliders requires a handful of common ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. For precise measurements, a detailed list, and step-by-step instructions, be sure to check out the printable recipe card available at the very end of this comprehensive guide. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need to gather:
Ingredient Deep Dive & Smart Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient’s role can help you tailor this recipe to your liking and make smart substitutions when needed:
Chicken
For this recipe, we’ve opted for a winning combination of both **boneless, skinless chicken breasts** and **boneless, skinless chicken thighs**. This blend is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The chicken breasts offer lean, tender meat, while the darker meat of the chicken thighs contributes incredible moisture and a richer flavor profile, preventing the chicken from becoming dry. This results in a truly succulent shredded chicken that’s ideal for sliders. However, if you have a preference or dietary restriction, you can certainly use all chicken breast or all chicken thighs. For an even quicker shortcut, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be used; simply shred it and warm it through with the sauce mixture.
BBQ Sauce
The barbecue sauce is the heart of the flavor in these sliders! While you can certainly use our homemade Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce for a unique sweet and savory kick, any high-quality bottled barbecue sauce will work wonderfully. Don’t hesitate to choose your favorite brand or style – whether you prefer a smoky, sweet, tangy, or even a spicy BBQ sauce, it will infuse the chicken with delicious character. Experiment with different varieties to find your perfect match!
Slider Buns
The choice of bun can elevate your sliders! While any store-bought slider buns will serve as a perfectly acceptable vehicle for the BBQ shredded chicken, if you’re aiming for an extra special touch, we highly recommend trying homemade Hawaiian rolls. Their slightly sweet and buttery flavor perfectly complements the tangy BBQ chicken, adding another layer of deliciousness. Regular small dinner rolls or even cut-down hamburger buns can also be used in a pinch.
Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Delicious BBQ Chicken Sliders
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you through making this recipe with confidence. For the complete printable version of this recipe, including all measurements and detailed instructions, please jump to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Onion: Begin by coarsely chopping a medium onion. Transfer the chopped onion into a mini chopper or a food processor. Process until the onion is very finely minced. This fine mince ensures the onion integrates smoothly into the sauce without large, chunky pieces. Set the minced onion aside for later use.
- Layer Chicken in Instant Pot: To your Instant Pot insert, add the chicken stock first. Then carefully place all the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs into the stock. Ensure the chicken pieces are relatively submerged for even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Evenly sprinkle the chicken with garlic powder and onion powder. These aromatics will infuse deep flavor into the meat as it cooks. Next, drizzle the Worcestershire sauce and liquid smoke over the chicken. Worcestershire adds a savory depth, while liquid smoke provides that essential barbecue aroma and taste without a smoker.
- Add Final Flavorings: Now, add the finely minced onion you prepared earlier, spreading it over the chicken and spices. Sprinkle the brown sugar on top, which will caramelize slightly and balance the tanginess of the BBQ sauce. Finally, pour the barbecue sauce generously over all the ingredients. Do not stir.
- Pressure Cook to Perfection: Securely close the lid of your Instant Pot and turn the vent to the sealed (closed) position. Set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release. This crucial step helps the chicken stay incredibly tender and juicy. After 10 minutes, carefully open the vent to quick-release any remaining pressure before removing the lid.
- Shred and Adjust Consistency: Gently remove the lid. You’ll notice some liquid in the pot. Using a large spoon, carefully spoon off much of the excess liquid, but be sure to reserve it in a separate bowl. This reserved liquid is liquid gold if your chicken mixture turns out too dry! Using two forks, begin to shred the chicken directly in the pot. It should be incredibly tender and easily pull apart. If, after shredding, the chicken mixture appears too dry for your liking, gradually add some of the reserved liquid back in, a spoonful at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
CHEF’S TIP: The juicy chicken mixture can sometimes release more liquid, which might make the bottom bun of your sliders soggy. To prevent this, you have a couple of options: either drain the shredded chicken more thoroughly before mixing in additional barbecue sauce, or, for an extra layer of protection and crunch, line each bottom slider bun with a small piece of lettuce before adding the chicken filling.
- Assemble Your Sliders: Once your BBQ chicken is perfectly shredded and saucy, it’s time to assemble! Scoop approximately 1/4 cup of the delicious BBQ chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each slider bun. If desired, top with a spoonful of creamy coleslaw for a delightful textural and flavor contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions & Pro Tips for Success
To ensure optimal freshness, it’s best to store the shredded BBQ chicken mixture separately from the buns. Place any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. This prevents the buns from becoming soggy. When ready to serve again, simply reheat the chicken and assemble fresh sliders.
Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the BBQ chicken up to 3 days in advance. Once cooked and shredded, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make sliders, gently reheat the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, then assemble your sliders. This makes entertaining a breeze!
For best results, reheat the shredded BBQ chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You can add a splash of chicken broth or extra BBQ sauce if it seems a little dry. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
While this recipe is optimized for the Instant Pot for speed and tenderness, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients (except buns and coleslaw) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is easily shreddable. Then proceed with shredding and assembly.
Delicious Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These BBQ chicken sliders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of sides. For an extra touch of presentation and flavor, consider garnishing your sliders with a dollop of creamy coleslaw and securing them with a cute bamboo pick. They are also fantastic when sprinkled with your favorite shredded cheese – quickly pop the assembled sliders into the oven or a toaster oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese until gooey and lightly toast the buns. For an ultimate indulgence, you can even baste melted butter over the tops of the buns before toasting!
When it comes to side dishes, classic “burger” accompaniments are always a winner. Think crispy french fries, hearty baked beans, golden tater tots, or crunchy onion rings. For a lighter touch, a fresh garden salad or corn on the cob would also be delightful. Don’t forget to serve an extra side of barbecue sauce for those who love to dip! These sliders are perfect with a cold glass of lemonade, iced tea, or your favorite craft beer.
More Irresistible Slider Recipes to Try
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of sliders, we have even more fantastic recipes for you to explore. They’re perfect for any occasion!
- Pizza Sliders
- Cheeseburger Sliders
- Ham and Cheese Sliders
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork (can also be used for sliders!)
- Mississippi Pot Roast Sliders
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BBQ Chicken Sliders
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 medium onion finely minced
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 2 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 cup barbecue sauce plus more for serving
- 20 slider buns
- coleslaw optional as topping
Things You’ll Need
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Instant Pot
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Food processor (or mini chopper)
Before You Begin: Expert Tips for the Best Sliders
- Chicken Choice: We recommend using a mix of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs. This combination yields the most flavorful and moist shredded chicken, thanks to the darker meat of the thighs. However, feel free to use all chicken breast if that’s your preference.
- Sauce Selection: The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility with BBQ sauce. While our homemade Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce adds a unique touch, any good quality bottled barbecue sauce you love will work perfectly. Experiment with different flavors like smoky, sweet, or spicy!
- Bun Perfection: For an elevated experience, consider making your own homemade Hawaiian rolls. Their soft, slightly sweet profile is a dream match for the tangy BBQ chicken. Otherwise, your favorite store-bought slider buns will be just as delicious.
Instructions
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Coarsely chop the onion. Place it into a mini chopper or food processor and blend until it is very finely minced. Set aside.
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Pour chicken stock into the Instant Pot. Add all the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs into the pot.
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Sprinkle the chicken evenly with garlic powder and onion powder. Drizzle with Worcestershire sauce and liquid smoke.
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Add the finely minced onion on top of the chicken and seasonings. Sprinkle with brown sugar, then generously top everything with the barbecue sauce. Do not stir.
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Close the lid of the Instant Pot and turn the vent to the sealed (closed) position. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. After cooking, allow a 10-minute natural pressure release, then open the vent to quick-release any remaining pressure before removing the lid.
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Remove the lid. Spoon off most of the liquid from the pot, reserving it in a separate bowl. Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the pot. If the chicken mixture appears too dry after shredding, add some of the reserved liquid back in, a spoonful at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
CHEF’S TIP – To prevent the bottom bun from becoming soggy, you can either drain the chicken mixture more thoroughly and add extra barbecue sauce, or line each bottom bun with a crisp lettuce leaf before adding the chicken.
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Scoop about 1/4 cup of the shredded BBQ chicken mixture onto each slider bun. Top with coleslaw if desired, then place the top bun to complete your delicious sliders.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- This recipe generously yields approximately 20 sliders, which equates to about 5 cups of delicious shredded BBQ chicken. Adjust quantities if serving a larger or smaller crowd.
- Any leftover shredded chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for future meals or quick snacks!
- For extra flavor and moisture, especially if reheating leftovers, you can always stir in a little more BBQ sauce before serving.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.