15 min
30 min
8 sliders
Dinner, Snack, Appetizer
United States
These Elderberry BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner.
Featuring tender, baked chicken breasts shredded and smothered in a smoky-sweet elderberry BBQ sauce, these sliders are a game changer. Topped with homemade coleslaw that adds a satisfying crunch, they’re served on mini sweet buns. Easy to prepare and packed with deliciousness, these sliders are sure to become a favorite at your table, combining the wholesome goodness of organic ingredients with the rich taste of elderberry!
Ingredients
-
For the Chicken:
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
-
For the Elderberry BBQ Sauce:
- ¼ cup Elderberry Syrup
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- (Include the full sauce recipe from your BBQ post)
-
For the Coleslaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
-
For the Sliders:
- Small slider buns or dinner rolls
Directions
Bake the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then shred using two forks.
Make the BBQ Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, prepare your Smoky Sweet Elderberry BBQ Sauce following this recipe!
Toss the Chicken in Sauce:
Once the chicken is shredded, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the elderberry BBQ sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
Prepare the Coleslaw:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrot. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot, then toss to combine.
Assemble the Sliders:
To assemble, place a generous portion of pulled chicken on the bottom half of each slider bun, top with coleslaw, and finish with the top half of the bun.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of baking my own?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply shred the meat and mix it with the elderberry BBQ sauce for a quick and easy option.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover pulled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make the coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good toss before serving to mix the dressing.
Are these sliders suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The pulled chicken and coleslaw can be made ahead of time, making these sliders perfect for meal prep. Assemble them just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with these sliders?
These sliders pair well with a variety of sides, such as sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or baked beans. They also make a great addition to any BBQ spread.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add some cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce or incorporate sliced jalapeños into the coleslaw for a spicy kick!
What type of buns work best for sliders?
Slider buns, dinner rolls, or even small ciabatta or brioche buns work great. Choose your favorite for the perfect handheld bite!
Can I substitute chicken breasts with another protein?
Yes! Feel free to use chicken thighs for a juicier option or substitute with shredded pork or even jackfruit for a plant-based version.
Can I make these sliders gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free buns and ensure that your BBQ sauce ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious sliders.
How do I reheat the pulled chicken?
To reheat, place the pulled chicken in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish for a quick option.
Can I add cheese to these sliders?
Absolutely! A slice of cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack cheese can be added on top of the pulled chicken before serving for extra flavor and creaminess.
How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
To keep the buns from becoming soggy, consider toasting them lightly before adding the pulled chicken and coleslaw. This creates a barrier that helps maintain their texture.
