Looking for a quick, cheesy, and downright irresistible recipe that everyone will love? These easy chicken sliders are your new go-to, whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or need the ultimate party snack that disappears fast.
Ready in 30 minutes or less, this chicken sliders recipe is everything you want:
✅ Juicy, flavorful chicken
✅ Gooey melted cheese
✅ Buttery toasted buns
✅ Zero stress in the kitchen
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s not just easy, it’s customizable, freezer-friendly, and built to impress. You can go classic, BBQ-style, buffalo-spicy, or even throw in some crispy bacon. There’s room to get creative, or keep it simple and still win everyone over.
As someone who’s tested more slider combos than I can count, this version checks all the boxes: fast, delicious, and dangerously addictive.
In this guide, you’ll get:
- A step-by-step breakdown (perfect even for beginner cooks)
- Tips to make them extra juicy and never soggy
- Fun flavor variations
- Smart ways to store, reheat, and serve like a pro
Let’s get started, because great sliders shouldn’t take all day.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this chicken sliders recipe is how flexible it is, you can keep it classic or dress it up depending on your vibe (and what’s in your fridge). Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect batch of sliders in 30 minutes or less:
🛒 Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or finely chopped)
Use rotisserie chicken to save time or cook your own with seasoning for more flavor. - 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls, brioche, or potato rolls work great)
Hawaiian rolls give a soft, sweet bite that balances savory fillings. - 6–8 slices of cheese (mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, or your favorite)
Cheese melts better when shredded or torn into smaller pieces. - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or your favorite sauce (optional, but adds moisture and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
This goes on top for that golden, toasty slider bun finish. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder + ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Mix with melted butter for a flavorful glaze.
➕ Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
- Pickles – for crunch and tang
- Sliced jalapeños – if you like it spicy
- BBQ sauce or buffalo sauce – for flavor twists
- Chopped bacon – because bacon makes everything better
👩🍳 Ingredient Tips
- Best Chicken to Use: Leftover rotisserie chicken is fast and flavorful, and perfect for this recipe. You can also use grilled, baked, or even canned chicken in a pinch.
Want ideas for using leftovers? Check out our Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes. - Best Buns for Sliders: Hawaiian rolls are a crowd favorite, but soft brioche buns work just as well. Avoid crusty rolls that don’t bake evenly or absorb the butter.
- Best Cheese Combos: Mozzarella gives that stretchy melt, cheddar adds sharpness, and provolone delivers smooth richness. Mix and match for your perfect bite.
How to Make Chicken Sliders Step-by-Step
These easy chicken sliders come together in minutes, with juicy chicken, melty cheese, and buttery golden buns that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making them for a party, a quick dinner, or game day, this process is totally fuss-free.
👨🍳 Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Coat your baking dish with a thin layer of oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
This keeps the bottoms from getting soggy and makes cleanup a breeze.
🥪 Step 2: Slice the Rolls
- Without pulling the rolls apart, slice the entire batch horizontally using a serrated knife
- Place the bottom half in your prepared baking dish
💡 Tip: Keep the rolls connected, it makes assembly and serving so much easier!
🍗 Step 3: Layer the Chicken and Cheese
- Spread your shredded or chopped chicken evenly across the bottom half
- Add any sauce (mayo, BBQ, buffalo)
- Layer your cheese slices across the top of the chicken
- Add optional extras: pickles, jalapeños, bacon, whatever you like
🥯 Step 4: Add the Top Layer
- Gently place the top half of the rolls over the fillings
- Press down lightly to hold everything together
🧈 Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Topping
In a small bowl, mix:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (or Italian seasoning)
Use a pastry brush or spoon to generously coat the tops of the sliders with the butter mixture.
This is what gives them that golden, flavor-packed finish.
🔥 Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish loosely with foil
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, then remove the foil
- Bake 5 more minutes uncovered, until the tops are golden and cheese is melted
Your kitchen will smell amazing, try not to eat one straight from the oven (but we won’t judge if you do).
🔪 Step 7: Slice & Serve
Use a sharp knife or spatula to separate the sliders and serve warm.
These are best enjoyed right out of the oven, but they also reheat well.
Pro Cooking Tips for Perfect Sliders
Want to take your chicken sliders from good to seriously next-level? These simple pro tips will help you avoid common mistakes and make sliders that are juicy, golden, and totally unforgettable.
🔥 1. Don’t Overload the Filling
It’s tempting to pile everything on, but too much filling can make the sliders fall apart or turn soggy.
✅ Keep a balanced ratio of chicken to cheese to bun for best results.
🧈 2. Always Use the Garlic Butter Glaze
That golden, buttery crust on top? It’s everything. The garlic butter not only adds flavor, it helps the buns crisp up just right.
💡 Want more flavor? Sprinkle a little shredded Parmesan on top before baking.
🧊 3. Use Room-Temperature Chicken
Cold chicken straight from the fridge can cause uneven heating.
✅ Let your shredded chicken sit out for 10–15 minutes before assembling.
🍞 4. Toast the Bottom Half (Optional but Pro-Level)
For an extra crispy base, pop the bottom layer of buns in the oven for 3 minutes before adding fillings.
🔥 Especially helpful if you’re adding sauce or moist ingredients.
🧀 5. Don’t Skip the Cheese
Cheese isn’t just for taste, it acts like glue that holds the sliders together when melted.
🧡 Mozzarella melts beautifully, cheddar adds bite, and provolone brings richness.
🔄 6. Make It Ahead (Yes, Really!)
Assemble the sliders and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, add the butter topping and pop them in the oven.
This trick is perfect for parties, meal prep, or feeding a crowd fast.
💡 Bonus: Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken
Want max flavor with zero effort? Use shredded rotisserie chicken from last night’s dinner.
👉 Try it with our Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes for even more tasty ideas.
Best Toppings and Flavor Variations
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, it’s time to switch things up with bold flavors and creative combos. Whether you’re into spicy, cheesy, or smoky, there’s a chicken slider here with your name on it.
Here are six crowd-favorite variations that bring serious flavor, and each one is just as easy to make.
🌶️ 1. Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Love heat? Toss your shredded chicken with buffalo sauce before layering it onto the buns. Top with ranch or blue cheese dressing and mozzarella or provolone.
🔥 Pro Tip: Add thinly sliced celery for crunch, or a drizzle of ranch on top after baking.
🥓 2. Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
This one’s an instant classic. Mix shredded chicken with a little ranch dressing, layer with crispy bacon and shredded cheddar. These chicken bacon ranch sliders are loaded with flavor and texture.
💡 Make it smoky: Use smoked bacon and a bit of chipotle ranch for a twist.
🧂 3. BBQ Chicken Sliders
Toss the chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce, layer with cheddar or pepper jack, and add pickles for the perfect tang. These BBQ chicken sliders are a game day essential.
🎉 Great for parties: Prep a double batch, they disappear fast.
🧀 4. Chicken Parm Sliders
Transform your sliders into mini comfort bombs. Use marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and parmesan over seasoned chicken. These chicken parm sliders are rich, gooey, and incredibly satisfying.
🍅 Optional: Add a basil leaf or Italian seasoning to the butter topping before baking.
🍗 5. Chicken Wing Sliders
Yes, it’s a thing! Combine buffalo-style shredded chicken with coleslaw or ranch slaw and serve on buns. These chicken wing sliders are messy in the best way.
🔥 Want crunch? Top with crushed fried onions before serving.
🤤 6. Crack Chicken Sliders
Ultra-creamy and impossible to resist. Mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, cheddar, and bacon. These crack chicken sliders are rich, savory, and perfect for serious comfort food lovers.
💥 Baking tip: Add extra cheese on top and let it bubble to golden perfection.
What to Serve With Chicken Sliders
Your chicken sliders are hot, melty, and ready to impress, now let’s talk about the perfect sides and drinks to serve with them. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a game-day spread, or just making an easy dinner, the right pairings can elevate the whole experience.
🥗 1. Crisp, Fresh Sides
Balance out the richness of sliders with something light and crunchy:
- Coleslaw – Creamy or vinegar-based slaw adds texture and a tangy contrast
- Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad – A fresh, hearty option with crunch (Try this recipe)
- Carrot and Raisin Salad – A sweet-savory side that complements BBQ and ranch flavors (Get the recipe)
🍟 2. Crowd-Pleasing Classics
Comfort food deserves comfort sides:
- Baked waffle fries or sweet potato fries
- Potato salad or pasta salad for summer gatherings
- Pickles, chips, or a snack board for quick, low-prep variety
🧊 3. Refreshing Drinks
Wash it all down with something cool and flavorful:
- Iced tea or lemonade – Classic, simple, and refreshing
- Dole Strawberry Lemonade – A sweet-tart favorite that pairs especially well with spicy sliders (Try it here)
- Peach Oolong or Jasmine Tea – If you’re going for a more unique, calming twist (Check out our tea recipes)
🧁 4. Sweet Finishes
Hosting guests? Cap it off with something sweet and fun:
- Banana Bread Cookies or Vanilla Wafer Cookies – Easy handheld dessert options
- Peach Cobbler with Cake Mix – Great for BBQ slider night (Full recipe here)
Storage & Reheating Tips
Made too many sliders (on purpose)? Good call, because these chicken sliders reheat beautifully and are just as tasty the next day. Here’s how to store them properly and bring them back to life without drying them out.
🥡 How to Store Chicken Sliders
- Refrigerator:
Let sliders cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Freezer:
Wrap individual sliders tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
💡 Pro Tip: Freeze them unbaked if you’re prepping ahead. Assemble, wrap, and bake straight from frozen (add 5–10 extra minutes).
🔁 How to Reheat Without Drying Out
- Oven (Best Method):
Preheat to 325°F (160°C). Wrap sliders loosely in foil and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through and cheese is melted.
✅ Preserves texture, keeps buns soft but slightly crisp. - Air Fryer:
Reheat at 300°F for about 5 minutes. Great for restoring crisp tops without overcooking the inside. - Microwave (Quickest):
Place the slider in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a slightly damp paper towel, and heat for 30 to 45 seconds until warm. Works in a pinch but may soften the bun too much.
❄️ Can You Prep Chicken Sliders Ahead?
Yes, these are perfect for make-ahead meals.
Assemble the sliders (with or without sauce), cover, and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just add the garlic butter on top and bake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, bake as directed. This is a great time-saver for parties or busy weeknights.
What type of chicken is best for sliders?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is a popular choice because it’s quick, flavorful, and easy to work with. You can also use grilled, baked, or even slow-cooked chicken. Just make sure it’s moist and well-seasoned for the best result.
How do I prevent the sliders from becoming soggy?
To avoid soggy bottoms, toast the bottom halves of the buns lightly before assembling. Also, be mindful not to overload with sauces and make sure any toppings like pickles or slaw are well-drained.
Can I freeze chicken sliders?
Yes! Wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven until hot and melty.
What are some variations of chicken sliders?
There are tons of delicious twists you can try:
Buffalo Chicken Sliders – with buffalo sauce and ranch or blue cheese
BBQ Chicken Sliders – smoky, tangy, and topped with pickles
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders – loaded with crispy bacon and creamy ranch
Chicken Parm Sliders – with marinara and melty mozzarella
Crack Chicken Sliders – creamy, cheesy, and topped with bacon
These options are perfect for switching things up or feeding different tastes at partie
chicken sliders recipe
Equipment
- baking dish
- mixing bowl
- Pastry Brush
- Serrated Knife
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups Cooked shredded chicken Rotisserie or homemade
- 12 rolls Slider buns Hawaiian or brioche preferred
- 6 slices Cheese Mozzarella cheddar, or provolone
- 2 tbsp Mayonnaise Optional
- 2 tbsp Butter Melted
- 1 tsp Garlic powder For butter topping
- 0.5 tsp Dried parsley For butter topping
- – – Optional toppings Pickles jalapeños, bacon, sauces
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Slice the slider buns horizontally without separating them. Place the bottom half in the baking dish.
- Layer the shredded chicken, cheese, and any sauces or toppings evenly over the buns.
- Place the top half of the buns on top and press down gently.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley. Brush the tops of the buns generously.
- Cover with foil and bake for 10–12 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5 minutes until tops are golden.
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- These sliders are perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
- Use any flavor combo you lik, try buffalo, BBQ, or ranch chicken for delicious variations.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a game day menu, or just need a fast and flavorful dinner, these easy chicken sliders check all the boxes. They’re:
- Quick to make (ready in 30 minutes or less)
- Easy to customize with bold flavors
- Perfect for kids, adults, picky eaters, and big crowds alike
From buffalo chicken sliders to chicken bacon ranch sliders, the variations are endless, and every version is just as crave-worthy as the last. Don’t be surprised if they become a weekly request in your house.
Want more easy, crowd-pleasing meals? Try these next:
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
- Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
- Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let us know your favorite variation, or share your own spin on it!
