Print

Flavorful Smoky BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders with Tangy Apple Slaw

smoky bbq pulled chicken sliders - featured image
Print Recipe

These smoky BBQ pulled chicken sliders with a tangy apple slaw are quick, easy, and perfect for casual gatherings. The crunchy, fresh slaw balances the rich, smoky chicken for a crowd-pleasing flavor combination.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 450 g)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) smoky BBQ sauce (e.g., Stubb’s Smokey Mesquite)
  • 8 small slider buns
  • 1 medium apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), julienned or thinly sliced
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage (about 150 g)
  • ½ cup shredded carrot (about 60 g)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (use vegan mayo if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: pickles, extra BBQ sauce drizzle, chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken has a slight golden crust. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces in the skillet or transfer to a bowl.
  3. Pour 1 cup (240 ml) smoky BBQ sauce over the shredded chicken and stir well to coat. Keep warm on low heat.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrot, and julienned apple. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over veggies and toss gently to coat.
  5. Optionally, lightly toast slider buns in a dry skillet or under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden.
  6. Assemble sliders by spooning BBQ pulled chicken onto the bottom half of each bun, topping with apple slaw, adding optional pickles or extra BBQ sauce, then capping with the top bun.
  7. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Do not overcook chicken to avoid dryness; use a meat thermometer for best results. Let chicken rest before shredding to keep it juicy. Prepare apple slaw just before serving to maintain crispness. Adjust BBQ sauce flavor with water, honey, or vinegar if needed. Optionally toast buns for better texture. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Vegan adaptation possible with jackfruit and vegan mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ pulled chicken, sliders, apple slaw, smoky BBQ, quick dinner, easy recipe, crowd-pleaser, backyard barbecue

Find it online: https://avabake.com/flavorful-smoky-bbq-pulled-chicken-sliders-with-tangy-apple-slaw-recipe/