Save Juicy shredded BBQ chicken served on soft slider buns, paired with crispy golden fries—a perfect combo for casual gatherings or family dinners.
I first made these BBQ chicken sliders and fries for a weekend game night at home. The sliders were a hit—everyone loved how tender the chicken was, and the fries disappeared fast.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Sauce: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade), 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper to taste
- Sliders: 12 slider buns, 6 slices cheddar cheese (halved), 1 cup coleslaw (prepared or homemade), 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- Fries: 4 large russet potatoes, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Season chicken:
- Pat chicken breasts dry. Season both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Sear chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 2 minutes per side until golden.
- Bake chicken:
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Pour chicken broth and barbecue sauce over the chicken. Cover tightly with foil. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature: 165°F/74°C).
- Prep fries:
- Cut potatoes into 1/4-inch thick fries. Toss with vegetable oil, sea salt, black pepper, and paprika. Spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake fries:
- Bake fries for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
- Shred chicken:
- Remove chicken from oven. Shred with two forks and toss with sauce in the baking dish.
- Toast buns:
- Brush slider buns with melted butter and toast lightly in the oven for 3–4 minutes.
- Assemble sliders:
- Place shredded BBQ chicken on bottom half of each bun, top with cheddar cheese and a spoonful of coleslaw. Cover with top bun.
- Serve:
- Serve sliders hot with crispy fries on the side.
Save My kids always request these sliders for movie nights, and they love helping assemble their own with extra cheese and coleslaw.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with pickle spears, extra BBQ sauce for dipping, or a crunchy garden salad for a balanced meal.
Variations
Swap out russet fries for sweet potato fries, or add a kick with pickled jalapeños in the sliders.
Make Ahead
Prepare the chicken ahead of time and reheat just before serving. Fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum crispness.
Save These BBQ chicken sliders with fries bring fun and flavor to any meal—make extras, because they'll go fast!
Recipe Questions
- → How can I ensure the chicken stays moist?
Seared chicken is baked covered with sauce and broth, which locks in moisture and enhances tenderness.
- → What kind of cheese complements the sliders best?
Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, creamy flavor that pairs well with smoky BBQ chicken.
- → Can I use alternative fries options?
Yes, sweet potato fries can be baked as a flavorful and colorful alternative.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the sliders?
Adding pickles or sliced jalapeños introduces a bright or spicy contrast to the smoky chicken.
- → What is the best way to shred the cooked chicken?
Use two forks to pull apart the chicken while it's still warm to achieve tender, even shreds.