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Flavorful Smoky Chipotle BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders Easy Recipe with Jalapeño Slaw

smoky chipotle bbq pulled pork sliders - featured image

These smoky chipotle BBQ pulled pork sliders combine tender slow-cooked pork with a fresh jalapeño slaw for a perfect balance of smoky heat and crisp freshness. Ideal for casual get-togethers and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (thick, smoky brand like Stubb’s)
  • ½ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 12 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 12 slider buns or small soft rolls
  • Optional: pickled jalapeños for extra kick

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from the pork shoulder, leaving some marbling for juiciness. Pat dry with paper towels. (10 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, combine chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Rub the spice mix evenly all over the pork shoulder, pressing it into the meat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  4. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker. Pour apple cider vinegar around the meat (not directly on top). Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until fork-tender.
  5. Remove pork from slow cooker and shred using two forks or meat claws. Discard large pieces of fat.
  6. Return shredded pork to slow cooker, add BBQ sauce, and stir to combine. Warm on low for 20-30 minutes.
  7. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and sliced jalapeños. In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over veggies and toss well.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm slider buns on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes until soft and lightly toasted.
  9. Assemble sliders by piling pulled pork on bottom half of buns, topping with jalapeño slaw and pickled jalapeños if using, then cover with top bun.
  10. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce and slaw on the side.

Notes

If sauce is too thick after reheating, stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or water to loosen. Let dry rub rest on pork for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor. Shred pork while warm for best texture. Prepare slaw just before serving to keep it crisp. Leftover pork can be used in tacos, burritos, or salads. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce cups. For dairy-free slaw, substitute mayonnaise with avocado-based dressing or dairy-free mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: pulled pork sliders, chipotle BBQ, smoky pulled pork, jalapeño slaw, slow cooker pulled pork, BBQ sliders, party food, easy BBQ recipe