BBQ Chicken Hawaiian Sliders

These BBQ chicken sliders are the answer when you crave something quick and comforting but festive enough for a crowd. Sweet Hawaiian rolls cradle juicy pulled chicken tossed with smoky, tangy barbecue sauce all baked under gooey cheddar—the perfect party bite or an easy weeknight win.

I pulled these together for a last-minute Sunday get-together once and was amazed at how fast they vanished. Now anytime I need a simple showstopper these sliders are my go-to.

Ingredients

• Hawaiian sweet rolls: brings a soft pillowy texture and signature sweetness look for the freshest pack you can find
• Butter: gives richness and helps the tops crisp up grab high-quality unsalted for best flavor
• Shredded cooked chicken: saves time when rotisserie is available or roast your own for deeper flavor
• Honey barbecue sauce: adds sweet smoky heat choose your favorite brand for just the right tang
• Garlic powder: sneaks in a savory boost opt for a fresh bottle so flavor pops
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully and offers sharpness try medium or sharp aged cheddar
• White sesame seeds: provide a gentle crunch and toasty finish the seeds should look plump and pale

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Pan:

Lightly coat a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with nonstick spray ensuring the rolls do not stick and cleanup stays easy

Split the Rolls:

With a serrated knife carefully halve the whole tray of Hawaiian rolls horizontally so you have two even slabs the bottoms and the tops nestle the bottoms into your prepared pan

Butter the Bottoms:

Spread three tablespoons of the softened butter in an even layer over the cut side of the bottom rolls this helps lock in moisture and adds toasty flavor

Mix Chicken with Sauce:

In a mixing bowl toss the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce until each piece is fully coated so every bite is juicy and flavorful

Assemble the Chicken Layer:

Distribute the sauced chicken evenly over the bottom rolls pressing lightly so the filling stays put during serving

Season with Garlic and Add Cheese:

Sprinkle the garlic powder over the chicken for depth and savor toss the shredded cheddar by hand over the chicken so cheese reaches every edge

Top with Remaining Rolls:

Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese pressing down gently to form neat sandwich slabs

Brush and Sprinkle:

Melt the last tablespoon of butter in a small dish use a pastry brush to coat the tops of the rolls completely then sprinkle with sesame seeds making sure to cover as much surface as possible

Bake the Sliders:

Slide the baking dish into a three hundred seventy five degree oven bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until cheese is melty and tops are a deep golden brown let them cool briefly before serving for easier slicing

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I will never forget the first time I made a double batch for my nephews they asked for seconds before the adults even found the platter

Storage Tips

These sliders keep really well in the fridge for up to three days Store wrapped tightly with foil Reheat covered in a low oven to keep them soft The cheese gets even gooier the second day

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap rotisserie chicken for your own roasted breasts or thighs For a smoky kick use chipotle barbecue sauce instead Mix up cheeses with Monterey Jack or Colby for a mild melt or pepper jack for heat

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside crunchy coleslaw for a classic barbecue plate or put out a big green salad for balance These shine on a game day appetizer table or make a delicious weeknight dinner with corn on the cob

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Cultural and Historical Context

Sliders became popular as mini burgers but stuffing rolls with barbecue chicken blends Southern flavors and convenient entertaining Hawaiian rolls bring that signature sweetness which balances smoky sauce for a playful twist on American barbecue

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of bread for these sliders?

Yes, while Hawaiian rolls add sweetness and softness, any slider or dinner roll can work as a substitute.

→ Is it possible to prepare these in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ What cheese pairs well with BBQ chicken in this dish?

Cheddar is classic for tanginess, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella melt nicely and complement the barbecue flavor.

→ Can I use homemade BBQ sauce instead of store-bought?

Homemade barbecue sauce works great and allows you to adjust sweetness, tang, and spice to your preference.

→ How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

Brush the rolls with butter first and avoid overfilling with sauce. Bake until the tops are golden and crisp.