Looking for a quick, tasty meal? You’ve come to the right place! These Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders bring savory flavors and ease to your table. I’ll guide you through simple steps to make juicy chicken bites and delightful sliders. With just a few key ingredients and some clever tips, you’ll impress your family or friends in no time. Ready to dive into this easy, flavorful recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Key Ingredients for Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders
– Chicken Thighs and Broths
For this recipe, I use 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender during cooking. I also add 1/2 cup chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and add flavor.
– BBQ Sauce Selection
Choose 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. The sauce is key to the taste of the sliders. You can go for sweet, spicy, or smoky, depending on your preference.
– Essential Seasonings
The seasonings make the chicken pop with flavor. I use:
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients for Serving
– Slider Rolls
You will need 12-15 small slider rolls. These are perfect for holding the BBQ chicken.
– Toppings like Coleslaw and Pickles
Topping your sliders with coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess. Sliced pickles are a great garnish for extra flavor and tang.
For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Seasoning Chicken Thighs
First, I take 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I season them well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This mix gives the chicken a great flavor. Make sure to cover every piece evenly.
Mixing Sauce Ingredients
Next, I prepare the sauce. In a bowl, I combine 1 cup of BBQ sauce, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. I stir this mixture well until all ingredients blend. This sauce will make the chicken juicy and tasty.
Cooking in the Instant Pot
Setting Up the Instant Pot
I pour the sauce mixture into the Instant Pot. Then, I add the seasoned chicken thighs, making sure they are well submerged in the sauce. I secure the lid tightly.
Cooking Time and Pressure Release
I set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After cooking, I wait for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This step is key for tender chicken. After that, I switch to quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Assembling the Sliders
Shredding the Chicken
Once the lid opens, I carefully remove the chicken thighs. Using two forks, I shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. I place the shredded chicken back into the pot, stirring to coat it well with the sauce.
Building the Perfect Sliders
I slice the slider rolls in half. On the bottom half of each roll, I spoon a generous amount of BBQ chicken. To top it off, I add coleslaw for crunch. Finally, I place the top half of the roll back on. This makes a perfect, tasty slider.
For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Tender Chicken
To make sure the chicken is tender, use natural pressure release. This method keeps the meat juicy. After cooking, let the Instant Pot sit for 10 minutes. This slow release helps the chicken stay moist.
When shredding the chicken, use two forks. Hold one fork steady and pull apart with the other. This technique gives you perfectly shredded chicken in no time.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
You can change the taste of your sliders by using different BBQ sauces. Try a smoky sauce for a rich flavor or a sweet sauce for a fun twist. You can also mix sauces to find your favorite blend.
Adjust seasonings to match your taste. Add more garlic powder for a bolder flavor or extra brown sugar for sweetness. Experimenting with flavors makes your meal unique.
Serving Suggestions
For side dishes, consider serving chips or a fresh salad. These pair well with the sliders and add crunch. You can also serve baked beans for a classic BBQ meal.
When it comes to drinks, iced tea or lemonade complements the sliders perfectly. For adults, a light beer or a fruity cocktail works well too. These beverages enhance the overall dining experience.
Variations
Different Proteins to Use
You can switch the protein in this recipe for variety.
– Alternative Chicken Cuts: Instead of chicken thighs, try chicken breasts. They are leaner but still work well. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick meal.
– Vegan or Vegetarian Options: For a plant-based option, substitute chicken with jackfruit. It shreds like chicken and soaks up flavors well. Another great choice is tempeh, which adds a nice texture.
Flavor Twists
Get creative with flavors to make these sliders your own.
– Mixing in Spices or Sauces: Add chili powder for a spicy kick. You can also mix in some honey for sweetness. Try different BBQ sauces, like a spicy or smoky version, to change the taste.
– Unique Topping Ideas: Beyond coleslaw, you can use avocado slices or jalapeños for extra flavor. Try adding cheese for a melty surprise. You can also top with fresh herbs like cilantro for brightness.
For a full guide on making these sliders, check out the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Refrigeration
How should you store leftovers? After you make your sliders, let them cool. Place the sliders in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can also store the BBQ chicken separately. Just keep it in a sealed bag or container.
How long can you safely eat them? Leftover sliders can last up to three days in the fridge. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Freezing Guidelines
What are the best ways to freeze BBQ chicken sliders? First, let the sliders cool completely. Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use freezer bags for easy storage. Make sure to squeeze out any air before sealing.
How do you reheat them? To reheat, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, you can heat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. This keeps the bread soft and the chicken warm. Enjoy your meal again!
FAQs
What can I substitute for chicken thighs?
You can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Chicken breasts cook fast and stay moist. Drumsticks add flavor but take longer. For a different protein, try pork or tofu. Both can work well in BBQ sliders.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these sliders ahead. Cook the chicken and store in the fridge. Keep the sliders separate until ready to serve. They will stay fresh for about three days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or stovetop before serving.
How do I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?
To scale down, use one pound of chicken. Cut the sauce in half, too. This makes about 6-8 sliders. Adjust seasonings to your taste. Remember, the cooking time stays the same in the Instant Pot.
This article covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for making Instant Pot BBQ chicken sliders. You learned how to select the right chicken and BBQ sauce, plus optional toppings for added flavor. I shared storage tips and variations to inspire creativity in your cooking. Remember, the right techniques ensure a delicious meal every time. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a few, these sliders are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make these sliders your own!
![- Chicken Thighs and Broths For this recipe, I use 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender during cooking. I also add 1/2 cup chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and add flavor. - BBQ Sauce Selection Choose 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. The sauce is key to the taste of the sliders. You can go for sweet, spicy, or smoky, depending on your preference. - Essential Seasonings The seasonings make the chicken pop with flavor. I use: - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 tablespoon brown sugar - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Slider Rolls You will need 12-15 small slider rolls. These are perfect for holding the BBQ chicken. - Toppings like Coleslaw and Pickles Topping your sliders with coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess. Sliced pickles are a great garnish for extra flavor and tang. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. Seasoning Chicken Thighs First, I take 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I season them well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This mix gives the chicken a great flavor. Make sure to cover every piece evenly. Mixing Sauce Ingredients Next, I prepare the sauce. In a bowl, I combine 1 cup of BBQ sauce, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. I stir this mixture well until all ingredients blend. This sauce will make the chicken juicy and tasty. Setting Up the Instant Pot I pour the sauce mixture into the Instant Pot. Then, I add the seasoned chicken thighs, making sure they are well submerged in the sauce. I secure the lid tightly. Cooking Time and Pressure Release I set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After cooking, I wait for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This step is key for tender chicken. After that, I switch to quick release to let out any remaining steam. Shredding the Chicken Once the lid opens, I carefully remove the chicken thighs. Using two forks, I shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. I place the shredded chicken back into the pot, stirring to coat it well with the sauce. Building the Perfect Sliders I slice the slider rolls in half. On the bottom half of each roll, I spoon a generous amount of BBQ chicken. To top it off, I add coleslaw for crunch. Finally, I place the top half of the roll back on. This makes a perfect, tasty slider. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To make sure the chicken is tender, use natural pressure release. This method keeps the meat juicy. After cooking, let the Instant Pot sit for 10 minutes. This slow release helps the chicken stay moist. When shredding the chicken, use two forks. Hold one fork steady and pull apart with the other. This technique gives you perfectly shredded chicken in no time. You can change the taste of your sliders by using different BBQ sauces. Try a smoky sauce for a rich flavor or a sweet sauce for a fun twist. You can also mix sauces to find your favorite blend. Adjust seasonings to match your taste. Add more garlic powder for a bolder flavor or extra brown sugar for sweetness. Experimenting with flavors makes your meal unique. For side dishes, consider serving chips or a fresh salad. These pair well with the sliders and add crunch. You can also serve baked beans for a classic BBQ meal. When it comes to drinks, iced tea or lemonade complements the sliders perfectly. For adults, a light beer or a fruity cocktail works well too. These beverages enhance the overall dining experience. {{image_2}} You can switch the protein in this recipe for variety. - Alternative Chicken Cuts: Instead of chicken thighs, try chicken breasts. They are leaner but still work well. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick meal. - Vegan or Vegetarian Options: For a plant-based option, substitute chicken with jackfruit. It shreds like chicken and soaks up flavors well. Another great choice is tempeh, which adds a nice texture. Get creative with flavors to make these sliders your own. - Mixing in Spices or Sauces: Add chili powder for a spicy kick. You can also mix in some honey for sweetness. Try different BBQ sauces, like a spicy or smoky version, to change the taste. - Unique Topping Ideas: Beyond coleslaw, you can use avocado slices or jalapeños for extra flavor. Try adding cheese for a melty surprise. You can also top with fresh herbs like cilantro for brightness. For a full guide on making these sliders, check out the Full Recipe. How should you store leftovers? After you make your sliders, let them cool. Place the sliders in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. You can also store the BBQ chicken separately. Just keep it in a sealed bag or container. How long can you safely eat them? Leftover sliders can last up to three days in the fridge. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. What are the best ways to freeze BBQ chicken sliders? First, let the sliders cool completely. Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap. You can also use freezer bags for easy storage. Make sure to squeeze out any air before sealing. How do you reheat them? To reheat, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, you can heat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. This keeps the bread soft and the chicken warm. Enjoy your meal again! You can use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Chicken breasts cook fast and stay moist. Drumsticks add flavor but take longer. For a different protein, try pork or tofu. Both can work well in BBQ sliders. Yes, you can make these sliders ahead. Cook the chicken and store in the fridge. Keep the sliders separate until ready to serve. They will stay fresh for about three days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or stovetop before serving. To scale down, use one pound of chicken. Cut the sauce in half, too. This makes about 6-8 sliders. Adjust seasonings to your taste. Remember, the cooking time stays the same in the Instant Pot. This article covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for making Instant Pot BBQ chicken sliders. You learned how to select the right chicken and BBQ sauce, plus optional toppings for added flavor. I shared storage tips and variations to inspire creativity in your cooking. Remember, the right techniques ensure a delicious meal every time. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just a few, these sliders are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make these sliders your own!](https://pagosarecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/782deaac-8ce5-4ea8-ae70-1891f5bb4bab-250x250.webp)