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Pulled Chicken Sliders

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These cozy tailgate pulled chicken sliders feature tender, juicy chicken simmered in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce and served on soft slider buns. Perfect for casual gatherings and game day snacking, they come together quickly with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (smoky, slightly sweet)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 12 slider buns (soft, sturdy like Hawaiian rolls or mini brioche)
  • Optional toppings: coleslaw, pickles, sliced jalapeños, extra barbecue sauce

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts or thighs in a large skillet. Add chicken broth or water and drizzle with olive oil. Cover and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid boiling.
  2. Remove chicken from skillet and shred finely using two forks or meat claws while still warm.
  3. In a small bowl, mix barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey (if using), smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until combined and adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Return shredded chicken to skillet over low heat. Pour sauce over chicken and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add splash of water or broth if sauce is too thick.
  5. Slice slider buns in half. Optionally toast buns lightly on a baking sheet or skillet until golden and slightly crisp.
  6. Spoon pulled chicken mixture onto bottom halves of buns. Add optional toppings like coleslaw, pickles, or jalapeños. Place top bun on each slider.
  7. Serve sliders warm immediately or cover loosely with foil to keep warm. Can be kept in a low oven (200°F / 93°C) for 15-20 minutes without drying out.

Notes

Simmer chicken gently to keep it tender and juicy. Shred chicken while warm for easier shredding. Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess. Adjust sauce seasoning to balance sweetness and tang. Add extra broth if sauce thickens too much. Leftovers reheat well with added sauce or broth to maintain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled chicken sliders, tailgate recipe, easy appetizer, barbecue chicken, game day food, slider recipe, party food

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/pulled-chicken-sliders-recipe-easy-cozy-tailgate-appetizer-ideas/