Irresistible Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders: Your Ultimate Guide to Flavorful Mini Sandwiches
Prepare for a taste sensation that’s as effortless to make as it is delicious to devour! These BBQ chicken sliders feature tender, tangy shredded chicken nestled perfectly between soft mini buns. They are an absolute crowd-pleaser, ideal for any gathering, and surprisingly simple to whip up using your pressure cooker. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; with the Instant Pot, you’ll have these smoky, sweet, and savory delights ready in a flash.
Why These Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders Will Be Your New Favorite
Our renowned Instant Pot BBQ chicken recipe gets a delightful transformation, making it perfect for bite-sized indulgence. These BBQ chicken sliders are not just miniature versions of a classic; they are specifically designed to be the stars of your next potluck, party, or game day celebration. Each slider is generously packed with exceptionally tender shredded chicken, drenched in a rich, tangy, and subtly smoky barbecue sauce. Simply pile this irresistible mixture onto a soft slider bun, and you’re all set for a truly satisfying snack or meal.
The magic of this recipe lies in its incredible speed and ease, thanks to the pressure cooker. You might glance at the recipe time and feel a tad intimidated by the listed “prep time,” but rest assured, this includes the time it takes for your Instant Pot to come up to pressure, as well as the natural release process. Your active, hands-on cooking time is minimal, making this a truly “set it and forget it” kind of dish until it’s time to shred the chicken. It’s an incredibly efficient way to achieve deep, slow-cooked flavors in a fraction of the traditional time, delivering fall-apart tender chicken every single time.
Effortless Crowd-Pleasing Goodness
There are countless reasons why these BBQ Chicken Sliders consistently earn rave reviews. Firstly, they eliminate the guesswork and lengthy cooking times often associated with perfectly tender shredded chicken. The Instant Pot handles the heavy lifting, ensuring consistently juicy results. Secondly, their small size makes them incredibly versatile and fun to eat. Guests can easily grab one (or two, or three!) without needing utensils, making them ideal for casual get-togethers. Finally, the combination of savory chicken, sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, and a soft bun creates a harmonious flavor profile that appeals to nearly everyone, from kids to adults. They are the epitome of comfort food, elevated for entertaining.
Essential Ingredients for Your BBQ Chicken Sliders
Before you dive into the cooking process, let’s gather everything you’ll need. You’ll find all precise measurements, a comprehensive list of ingredients, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post. Don’t worry, we’ve broken down each component to ensure your BBQ Chicken Sliders are nothing short of spectacular!
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Understanding your ingredients is key to successful cooking. Here’s a deeper dive into the components that make these BBQ Chicken Sliders shine, along with some helpful substitution suggestions to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.
CHICKEN – The Heart of Your Sliders
For this recipe, we recommend using a combination of both boneless, skinless chicken breast and chicken thighs. This blend is truly magical; the leaner chicken breast absorbs the flavors beautifully, while the richer dark meat from the chicken thighs adds an unparalleled depth of flavor and ensures the shredded chicken remains incredibly moist and tender. This prevents the chicken from drying out, which can sometimes happen with all white meat. If you prefer, you can certainly use all chicken breast for a leaner option, or all chicken thighs for an even richer, more succulent result. Just remember that cooking times might vary slightly if using only one type of meat.
BBQ SAUCE – The Tangy, Smoky Star
The barbecue sauce is what truly defines these sliders. While our signature Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce is highly recommended for its unique sweet and tangy notes, any high-quality bottled barbecue sauce will work wonderfully. Don’t hesitate to use your favorite brand! Whether you prefer a smoky hickory, a sweet honey BBQ, a spicy chipotle, or a classic Carolina tangy mustard sauce, feel free to personalize your sliders. Experiment with different varieties to find what suits your palate best. For an extra special touch, you can also consider making your own homemade BBQ sauce from scratch if you have the time.
BUNS – The Perfect Vessel
The bun is more than just a holder; it’s an integral part of the slider experience. If you’re looking to elevate your sliders to gourmet status, our homemade Hawaiian rolls are an absolutely fantastic choice. Their slight sweetness and incredibly soft, fluffy texture complement the tangy BBQ chicken perfectly. However, if convenience is your priority, store-bought slider buns work just as well and are readily available. Brioche slider buns offer a richer, buttery flavor, while potato rolls provide a soft yet sturdy base. Choose mini buns that are soft enough to bite through easily but firm enough to hold the generous filling without falling apart.
Other Flavor Enhancers
- Onion: A finely minced onion forms an aromatic base, contributing a subtle sweetness and savory depth to the chicken. It melts into the sauce during cooking, becoming almost imperceptible in texture but essential for flavor.
- Chicken Stock: This liquid creates the pressure in your Instant Pot and infuses the chicken with savory flavor as it cooks, keeping it moist.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples provide consistent savory notes that round out the flavor profile without being overpowering.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire adds umami depth and a subtle tang, enhancing the overall savory character of the BBQ chicken.
- Liquid Smoke: For that authentic, smoky BBQ flavor without needing a smoker, liquid smoke is a game-changer. A little goes a long way to impart a deep, wood-fired aroma.
- Brown Sugar: This adds a touch of molasses-rich sweetness, balancing the tanginess of the BBQ sauce and promoting a lovely caramelization.
Mastering the Art of Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders
These step-by-step photos and instructions are designed to help you visualize exactly how to make this delightful recipe. For a convenient, printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and detailed instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
- First, take your medium onion, coarsely chop it, and place it into a mini chopper or a reliable food processor. Pulse until the onion is very finely minced. The goal here is to integrate the onion flavor into the sauce seamlessly without having large chunks, ensuring a smooth texture for your shredded chicken. Set the minced onion aside for a moment.
- Next, open your Instant Pot. Pour in the 2 cups of chicken stock. Then, carefully add all the 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts and 1 ½ pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs to the pot. Arrange them in a single layer if possible, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the stock. This liquid is crucial for generating the steam needed for pressure cooking and for infusing the chicken with flavor.
- Now it’s time to build those incredible flavors! Evenly sprinkle the chicken with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Follow this by drizzling ½ Tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke directly over the chicken pieces. These ingredients are essential for creating that deep, savory, and smoky BBQ base.
- Distribute the finely minced onion you prepared earlier on top of the chicken and seasonings. Then, sprinkle 2 ½ teaspoons of brown sugar over everything. Finally, pour the 1 cup of your chosen barbecue sauce evenly over the entire mixture. Do not stir at this point; allowing the sauce to sit on top helps it meld beautifully during the pressure cooking process.
- Now, securely close the lid of your Instant Pot and turn the vent to the sealed (closed) position. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a 10-minute natural pressure release. This is crucial for keeping the chicken tender and juicy. After 10 minutes, carefully open the vent to quick-release any remaining pressure. Always exercise caution when releasing steam.
- Once the pressure has fully released, remove the lid. You’ll notice some liquid in the pot. Using a spoon or ladle, carefully spoon off much of this liquid into a separate bowl, but be sure to reserve it. This reserved liquid is your secret weapon for moisture control! Now, using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the pot, mixing it with the delicious remaining sauce and onions. If the shredded chicken mixture appears too dry for your liking, gradually add some of the reserved liquid back in, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
CHEF’S TIP – The succulent chicken mixture, rich with barbecue sauce, can sometimes be quite juicy. If not adequately drained, this can lead to soggy bottom buns, which nobody wants! To prevent this, you have a couple of options: you can either drain the chicken mixture even more thoroughly and add extra barbecue sauce to moisten it, or for a simpler solution, line each bottom bun with a small piece of crisp lettuce before adding the chicken. This creates a barrier, keeping your buns perfectly soft and intact.
- Finally, it’s time to assemble your masterpieces! Scoop approximately 1/4 cup of the flavorful shredded BBQ chicken onto each slider bun. For an extra layer of flavor and crunch, you can optionally top with creamy coleslaw. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
Why Cook BBQ Chicken Sliders in the Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot isn’t just a trendy appliance; it’s a game-changer for recipes like these BBQ chicken sliders. Here’s why it’s the superior choice:
- Speed and Efficiency: Achieve fall-apart tender chicken in a fraction of the time it would take in a slow cooker or oven. What usually takes hours is done in minutes of active cooking.
- Unmatched Tenderness: The high-pressure environment forces moisture deep into the chicken, resulting in incredibly succulent and easy-to-shred meat every time.
- Flavor Infusion: Pressure cooking helps the chicken absorb all the delicious flavors of the BBQ sauce and seasonings more deeply and quickly.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once you set the pot, you can walk away and focus on other tasks or enjoy your time, knowing dinner is cooking itself.
- Easy Cleanup: A single pot means fewer dishes to wash, making post-meal cleanup a breeze.
Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Sliders Every Time
- Don’t Overcrowd: While the Instant Pot is spacious, avoid stuffing it too full. Ensure the chicken pieces have enough room to cook evenly in the liquid.
- Adjust BBQ Sauce to Taste: Feel free to use more or less barbecue sauce based on your preference. Some like their sliders extra saucy, while others prefer a lighter coating.
- Toast Your Buns: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, lightly toast your slider buns before assembling. You can do this in a dry pan, under the broiler, or in a toaster oven. A brush of melted butter before toasting adds richness.
- Make Ahead: The shredded BBQ chicken mixture can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling the sliders. This makes party prep even easier!
- Slow Cooker Alternative: No Instant Pot? No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients (except buns and coleslaw) to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is easily shredded.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
For best results, it’s ideal to store the shredded BBQ chicken mixture separately from the buns. Place any leftover shredded chicken in an air-tight container and keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When you’re ready for more sliders, simply reheat the chicken mixture gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and then assemble fresh sliders with new buns. If you have already assembled sliders, they can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days, but the buns may become a bit soggy.
Absolutely! The shredded BBQ chicken mixture is fantastic for meal prepping. Prepare it fully, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes assembly for parties or quick weeknight meals incredibly convenient.
While we love our Dr. Pepper BBQ Sauce for its unique flavor, the best BBQ sauce is truly subjective! Consider your preferences: do you like it sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy? Popular choices include classic Kansas City-style (sweet and smoky), Carolina-style (vinegar or mustard-based), or Texas-style (rich and savory). Don’t be afraid to try different brands and styles to find your perfect match.
For appetizers, plan for 2-3 sliders per person. If the sliders are the main dish, especially alongside a few side dishes, 3-4 sliders per person is a good estimate, depending on appetite.
Creative Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings
Elevate your BBQ chicken sliders beyond the basic bun with these delightful serving suggestions:
- Garnish Galore: For a pop of freshness and crunch, garnish your BBQ chicken sliders with creamy coleslaw (either a classic mayo-based or a tangy vinegar-based one). Secure them with a charming bamboo pick if desired, especially for parties.
- Cheesy Perfection: A sprinkle of your favorite shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack) adds another layer of flavor and gooey texture. For melted cheese goodness, quickly pop the assembled sliders into the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the buns are lightly toasted. Optionally, baste melted butter over the tops of the buns before toasting for a golden-brown finish.
- Pickle Power: Don’t underestimate the power of a good pickle! Dill pickle slices or sweet bread and butter pickles offer a fantastic counterpoint to the rich chicken and sauce.
- Crispy Onions or Bacon: For an extra textural element, consider adding a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or crumbled cooked bacon bits on top of the chicken before adding the bun.
- Fresh Herbs: A touch of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley can add a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness.
These mini sandwiches pair exceptionally well with a variety of classic “burger” or picnic sides. Consider serving them alongside crispy french fries (sweet potato, curly, or traditional), hearty baked beans, golden tater tots, crunchy onion rings, creamy potato salad, refreshing macaroni salad, or sweet corn on the cob. Don’t forget to offer an extra side of your favorite barbecue sauce for dipping!
For drinks, a cold iced tea, lemonade, or a craft beer would perfectly complement the flavors of these sliders.
Discover More Irresistible Slider Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of sliders, you’re in luck! We have a fantastic collection of other easy-to-make slider recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Explore these crowd-pleasing options:
- Pizza Sliders: All the flavors of your favorite pizza, in a bite-sized bun!
- Cheeseburger Sliders: A miniature take on the classic American burger, perfect for parties.
- Ham and Cheese Sliders: A sweet and savory combination that’s always a hit.
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork: While not explicitly a slider recipe, this versatile pulled pork makes incredible sliders!
- Mississippi Pot Roast Sliders: Tender, flavorful pot roast piled high on mini buns.
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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
- 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
- 20 slider buns
- coleslaw optional as topping
Things You’ll Need
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Instant pot
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Food processor
Before You Begin
- We’re using both chicken breast and chicken thighs for this recipe. The mixture of the two goes really well together and the dark meat helps add even more moisture and flavor. You can certainly use all chicken breast if that’s what you prefer.
- You can use our Dr. Pepper Barbecue Sauce for this recipe! However, any bottled barbecue sauce will do.
- If you really want to get fancy with it, homemade Hawaiian rolls are a fantastic vehicle for BBQ shredded chicken. Store-bought slider buns work just as well.
Instructions
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Coarsely chop onion and place into a mini chopper or food processor. Blend until until finely minced. Set aside.
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To the Instant Pot, add chicken stock and all the chicken breasts and thighs.
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Sprinkle chicken with garlic powder and onion powder, drizzle with Worcestershire and liquid smoke.
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Add the finely minced onion on top of everything. Sprinkle with brown sugar and top it all with the barbecue sauce.
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Close lid and turn vent to the closed position. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Do a 10 minute natural release, then open vent to release any remaining pressure.
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Remove lid and spoon off much of the liquid, but reserve it in case you need to add some back in. Shred the chicken with two forks. If it is too dry add some of the reserved liquid back in.
CHEF’S TIP – the chicken mixture may drip some of its liquid, making the bottom bun soggy. You can either drain it more and add more barbecue sauce, or line each bottom bun with lettuce before adding the chicken.
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Scoop 1/4 cup of chicken onto each slider bun. Top with coleslaw if desired.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- This recipe yields 20 sliders, or 5 cups of chicken.
- Store any leftover shredded chicken in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
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.