Easy Chicken Sliders Recipe

If there’s one thing I’ve learned on game days, family nights, and random Tuesdays—it’s this: nothing brings people together faster than a good chicken sliders recipe. Years ago, I burnt an entire sheet pan of buns because I got distracted by a college football game (Texas vs. OU, if you must know). Ever since, I’ve taken slider-making very seriously. From juicy shredded chicken sliders to crispy fried ones, I’ve tested nearly every version in my little Austin kitchen.

In today’s post, I’ll walk you through 7 irresistible variations of chicken sliders—each one beginner-friendly, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’ve got rotisserie leftovers, ground chicken, or craving something spicy and fried, I’ve got you. We’ll also cover how to keep sliders from getting soggy, what buns actually work best, and the one sauce that turns simple sliders into a full-on obsession.

This is not your average “dump and bake” recipe post. This is slider magic, made for real kitchens and real appetites.

Key Takeaways: What You Need To Know

• A chicken sliders recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
• You can make sliders with shredded, fried, rotisserie, or ground chicken—each method delivers a unique flavor and texture.
• Keep sliders from going soggy by toasting buns and draining any excess sauce from your filling.
• Hawaiian rolls, potato buns, and brioche slider buns hold up best under hearty fillings.
• Leftover rotisserie chicken? Use it to make rotisserie chicken sliders recipe with minimal prep.
• From buffalo chicken to garlic parmesan, flavor your sliders to match the mood (or craving).
• Add crunch with coleslaw or pickles and finish with a butter-brushed top for that wow factor.

Why Chicken Sliders Deserve a Spot on Your Table

What makes a chicken sliders recipe so special?

A great chicken sliders recipe turns ordinary ingredients into something unforgettable. You get the juicy meat, the melty cheese, the toasted bun—and when it’s done right, it disappears from the tray faster than you can say “seconds, please.”

Back when I was first learning how to cook, I used to overthink everything. I thought I had to marinate, slow cook, sear, and sauce everything like some gourmet chef. One day, short on time and long on hunger, I threw together what I now call my “oops sliders”—just shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover chipotle mayo, and a few sweet rolls from the back of my freezer.

And guess what?

They were better than anything I’d tried to “perfect.” Since then, sliders have become a go-to in my kitchen, not just because they’re delicious—but because they’re flexible, easy, and always a hit.

Whether you’re working with leftover rotisserie chicken sliders recipe, frying up some southern-style crunch, or rolling out spicy shredded chicken sliders, there’s a slider for every mood and meal.

And let’s be real—nobody’s ever mad about sliders showing up at the party.

How do chicken sliders compare to full-size sandwiches?

Chicken sliders offer all the satisfaction of a full sandwich, but with more fun and flexibility. You can serve multiple flavor combos on one tray, and they’re easier for guests to grab and go.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Need an excuse to make them? Here are a few:

• Game day appetizers
• Kid-friendly lunches
• Potluck hits
• Meal prep (freeze & reheat!)

And let’s not forget the endless ways to flavor them. Just like my spicy Chipotle Chicken wraps, sliders are your blank canvas. Craving garlic parmesan? Feeling bold with buffalo? Want cheesy jalapeño vibes? We’re doing it all in this post.

Shredded Chicken Sliders Recipe Made Easy

How do you make shredded chicken sliders with minimal prep?

To make easy shredded chicken sliders, mix pre-cooked chicken with your favorite sauce, layer onto buns with cheese, and bake until bubbly. Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.

There’s something cozy about a tray of warm shredded chicken sliders coming out of the oven. You hear the sizzle, smell the butter, and know dinner’s handled. These sliders have saved me more times than I can count—especially on nights when I’m too tired to even look at a stove.

And if you’ve got leftover rotisserie chicken from last night’s dinner (or from this leftover rotisserie chicken recipe), you’re halfway there.

What ingredients do you need for shredded chicken sliders?

Here’s what I use for my no-fail, beginner-friendly version:

Optional: thinly sliced red onion, pickles, or slaw for extra crunch.

Pro tip: If you’re starting from raw chicken, just boil or bake boneless thighs or breasts, shred them with two forks, and toss with your favorite sauce.

What makes these sliders stand out from other chicken recipes?

Unlike fried chicken sliders recipe versions that need deep frying, these are oven-baked and fast. They’re also lighter, making them perfect for feeding a crowd without deep fryer drama.

I like to serve them alongside a bowl of this cozy Buffalo Chicken Chili when I want something hearty and shareable.

Steps to Make Shredded Chicken Sliders

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Mix chicken with your sauce of choice in a bowl.
3. Slice slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the bottoms together.
4. Layer chicken and cheese evenly across the buns.
5. Top with bun lids, then brush with melted butter and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
6. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and tops are golden.

Fried Chicken Sliders Recipe With Big Crunch

How do you make fried chicken sliders from scratch?

Fried chicken sliders start with boneless thighs or breasts, breaded and pan-fried until golden. Sandwich them in soft slider buns with your favorite sauce or slaw for a perfect crispy bite.

I still remember the first time I made fried chicken sliders for friends. I was nervous. Frying always felt like “real chef” territory to me. But once I got the oil hot and dropped in the first batch, something clicked. The sizzle, the smell—it felt like a celebration in my cast-iron skillet.

Since then, this recipe has become one of my most requested. And trust me, if I can fry without burning the house down, you can too.

What’s the best cut of chicken for fried sliders?

Go with boneless chicken thighs for the juiciest result. They stay moist, crisp up beautifully, and fit perfectly inside slider buns.

Here’s your quick ingredient lineup:

How to Make Fried Chicken Sliders at Home

1. Marinate chicken in buttermilk (at least 1 hour, or overnight).
2. Mix flour + spices in a shallow bowl.
3. Dredge chicken in seasoned flour.
4. Fry in 350°F oil until golden brown, about 4–5 mins per side.
5. Drain on paper towels, then assemble on buns with toppings.

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, fry once and finish in the oven for 5–7 minutes at 375°F to keep them warm and crispy.

What should you serve with fried chicken sliders?

Balance the richness with something fresh! I like serving these with tangy slaw, sweet pickles, or a simple salad. For a heartier option, pair with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta on the side.

Ground Chicken Sliders Recipe for Juicy, Lighter Bites

Can you make a chicken sliders recipe with ground chicken?

Yes! Ground chicken makes a juicy, flavorful base for chicken sliders. Mix with seasoning, form into mini patties, sear in a skillet, and layer into buns for a lighter twist on this crowd favorite.

When people ask me for a healthier version of my go-to chicken sliders recipe, I always suggest ground chicken sliders. They’re easy, juicy, and don’t require deep frying or even heavy sauces. Best of all? You can season them any way you want.

Back when my friend Katie had her second baby, I brought over a tray of these to help with the chaos. I kept the seasoning mild (just garlic, onion, and parsley) and paired it with mini brioche buns. Her exact words?

“Lucy, these are the best chicken sliders I’ve ever had—my toddler AND husband actually agreed on dinner for once.”

That’s the kind of win we all need.

What’s in a great ground chicken sliders recipe?

Optional Add-ons: Slice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, or a smear of mayo or mustard.

Steps: How to Make Ground Chicken Sliders

1. Mix ground chicken with egg, breadcrumbs, and seasoning in a bowl.
2. Form into mini patties (about 2 oz each) and chill for 10 minutes.
3. Sear in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
4. Assemble your sliders with buns, toppings, and any sauces you like.

These sliders cook up fast and freeze like a dream. I often double the batch and stash a few for emergency weeknight meals.

Why try ground chicken instead of shredded or fried?

This version of the chicken sliders recipe is:

• Healthier (less fat than fried)
• Faster (no slow cooking or breading)
• Customizable (add herbs, spices, or cheese right into the mix)

Pair with this creamy Chicken Salad Without Celery for a slider-and-salad lunch combo that doesn’t feel boring.

Real-life tip: If your patties are too soft to shape, add a bit more breadcrumbs until they hold together. And don’t skip chilling before cooking—it helps them stay intact and sear beautifully.

chicken sliders recipe

These easy chicken sliders are cheesy, juicy, and ready in 30 minutes or less — perfect for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight dinner.

Print Pin

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American, American comfort food

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 Sliders

Calories: 218kcal

Cost: $11

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.

Nutrition

Calories: 218kcal

Rotisserie Chicken Sliders Recipe for Quick Wins

What’s the easiest chicken sliders recipe for busy nights?

Use rotisserie chicken to make sliders in under 20 minutes. Shred the meat, toss it with sauce, load it into buns, and bake. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for last-minute meals.

You know those nights where the fridge is empty, the kids are cranky, and your energy is somewhere under the couch with the crumbs? That’s when this rotisserie chicken sliders recipe comes to the rescue.

I’ve leaned on this version more times than I can count. It’s the shortcut hero in my kitchen. The chicken’s already cooked. All you need to do is bring the flavor. Whether you go spicy, sweet, tangy, or creamy—rotisserie chicken soaks it up like a charm.

One time, I even made these on a camping trip (yep, on a little cast-iron over a portable burner), and they were the first thing gone.

Ingredients for Rotisserie Chicken Sliders

Want to level it up? Add a spoonful of Ina Garten’s Curry Chicken Salad to give it a warm, earthy twist with minimal effort.

How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Sliders in 20 Minutes

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Shred your rotisserie chicken (about 2–3 cups).
3. Mix with sauce in a bowl—go heavy or light depending on preference.
4. Slice slider buns in half without separating them.
5. Layer the chicken mixture and cheese inside, then replace the tops.
6. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with garlic powder or herbs.
7. Bake 15 minutes until hot, melty, and golden on top.

Serve warm, and watch your family devour them straight from the tray.

Why use rotisserie chicken in a chicken sliders recipe?

Because it:

• Saves time
• Reduces waste
• Tastes amazing with zero effort

Plus, rotisserie chicken is super versatile. You can use leftovers from recipes like this Newk’s Chicken Salad or even toss in some spicy shredded pieces from your Wendy’s Grilled Chicken Wrap meal prep.

Real-life tip: If your rotisserie chicken is dry (hey, it happens), add a splash of chicken broth or a little mayo to rehydrate it before mixing with sauce.

What to Serve With Chicken Sliders

What goes well with a chicken sliders recipe?

Great chicken sliders deserve bold, balanced sides. Pair them with crispy potatoes, slaws, fresh salads, or creamy pastas. Add a dipping sauce or two to elevate the entire slider experience.

You’ve made the perfect chicken sliders recipe—golden buns, juicy filling, melted cheese. Now what?

You need sides that complement the sliders without stealing the show. Over the years, I’ve tested dozens (maybe too many) side dishes to find that sweet spot. Whether you’re doing shredded, fried, or rotisserie chicken sliders, these sides will seal the deal.

Best Sides for Chicken Sliders

Pro tip: If you’re serving sliders buffet-style, keep sides finger-friendly. Think little ramekins of slaw or pre-portioned salad cups.

Sauces That Take Sliders to the Next Level

A chicken sliders recipe isn’t complete without sauce options. I always serve two or three. Try these:

• Spicy ranch: Mix ranch with hot sauce and garlic powder
• Honey mustard: A sweet-tangy classic
• Sriracha mayo: Creamy heat in every bite
• BBQ aioli: Smoky, rich, and addictive
• Marry Me sauce: Inspired by this Marry Me Chicken Pasta, it’s creamy, garlicky magic

What drinks go well with chicken sliders?

Keep it simple and refreshing:

• Iced tea (sweet or unsweet)
• Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber
• Lemonade or limeade for a sweet contrast
• Light beer or a crisp white wine for adults

How to Serve Sliders for a Crowd

Hosting a game day or casual party? Here’s how I set up a chicken sliders recipe bar:

1. Bake sliders and keep warm in foil pans.
2. Set out sauces, slaw, and pickles on the side.
3. Let guests build their own or grab and go.

This DIY setup is always a hit—and keeps you out of the kitchen during the fun.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Sliders Recipe