Pulled Chicken And Slaw Sliders
Get ready for a flavor-packed meal with these pulled chicken and slaw sliders. Tangy barbecue chicken pairs perfectly with a creamy, crunchy slaw, all tucked into a soft slider bun.
Slaw
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 package (16 ounce size) shredded coleslaw mix
Chicken
1 cup barbecue sauce
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
3 cups shredded or chopped rotisserie chicken
12 slider buns
For extra flavor in the pulled chicken, try adding sauteed onions or garlic when combining the chicken and barbecue sauce.
Try different types of coleslaw mix, such as adding red cabbage or kale for variety.
To add more crunch, try topping the slaw with toasted nuts or seeds just before serving.
Use sliders with a sturdier texture, like brioche or whole grain, to hold up well against the hearty chicken and slaw mixture.
Serve with a small side of extra barbecue sauce for dipping for those who like more flavor.
If you're hosting a party, set up a slider station where guests can assemble their own with various toppings, such as pickles or hot sauce.
Choosing a barbecue sauce depends on your taste preference. Sweet sauces work well with tangy coleslaw, while spicy sauces can add a kick. Try experimenting with mustard-based or vinegar-based sauces for variety.
You can use fresh chicken. Cook it by baking, boiling, or grilling, then shred it once cooked. This method allows you to control seasoning and flavor better. This recipe is also a great way to use leftover cooked chicken (or even turkey!)
If you don't have cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work well.
You can substitute the pulled chicken with jackfruit, which mimics the texture when cooked and shredded. Use your favorite barbecue sauce to balance the sweeter flavor.
You can store the leftover pulled chicken and slaw sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the slaw separate until you're ready to serve for the best texture.
You can freeze the pulled chicken mixture. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Use within 2-3 months. The slaw mixture won't freeze well so that is best made fresh.
To prevent soggy buns, try toasting them lightly before assembling the sliders. You can also keep the pulled chicken and slaw separate until just before serving.
You can use Greek yogurt, avocado mayo, or even a vegan mayo substitute for a healthier option.
You can add diced apples, shredded carrots, or even chopped jalapenos for added flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also enhance the flavor of the slaw.
You can serve these sliders as an appetizer for parties or as a main dish alongside sides like potato chips, sweet potato fries, or a light salad.
Prepare the slaw up to 1 day in advance, and keep it stored in the refrigerator. This also allows the flavors to meld together.
Baked Beans: Serve these boozy baked beans alongside the sliders for a robust, smoky flavor that echoes the barbecue chicken, while providing a nice contrast in texture.
Pickle Chips: A side of dill pickle chips adds a tangy bite that complements the sweetness of the barbecue sauce and cuts through the richness of the mayo slaw.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy baked sweet potato shoestring fries bring a hint of sweetness and a light crunch that pairs beautifully with the savory sliders.
Guacamole: A side of chunky guacamole can add a fresh, herby dimension, providing a nice counterbalance to the rich pulled chicken.
Hot Sauce: A drizzle of your go-to hot sauce brings an extra kick and can help boost the barbecue flavors.
Onion Rings: These crispy, beer-battered onion rings add a sweet onion flavor that pairs perfectly with the sliders' richness.
Fruit Salad: A boozy fruit salad with melons and berries and a tequila orange liqueur dressing offers a sweet balance to the savory flavors.
Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: A nice, buttery Chardonnay can be a good pairing here. Look for one that's lightly oaked, giving it a creamy mouthfeel that'll match the richness of the mayo and pull everything together.
Sauvignon Blanc: A zesty Sauvignon Blanc will bring some refreshing acidity to cut through the creamy slaw and complement the tangy barbecue chicken. Aim for one with grassy notes and citrusy zing.
Zinfandel: A fruity Zinfandel can hold its own against bold barbecue flavors. Look for berry notes and a bit of spice; it'll blend seamlessly with the smokiness of the chicken.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Pale Ale: A hoppy pale ale can really boost the flavor of your sliders. The bitterness will contrast nicely with the sweet barbecue sauce, while the citrus notes will play well with the slaw's tanginess.
Moscow Mule: This refreshing cocktail made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime is a great option. The ginger's bite adds a little kick, making it a lively match with the robust flavors of pulled chicken.
Whiskey Sour: A whiskey sour strikes a nice balance between sweet and tart. The citrus notes complement the slaw while the whiskey brings a smooth depth that stands boldly up to the barbecue sauce.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Sparkling Water with Lime: Sometimes the simplest things are the best. A fizzy splash of sparkling water will keep your palate refreshed while the lime adds a nice twist that plays well with the slaw's zing.
Coconut Water: If you want something a bit different, coconut water adds a hint of sweetness and provides a tropical touch that can cool down the spicy elements in the barbecue.
Cranberry Spritzer: A cranberry spritzer, with its bubbling goodness and fruity notes, can brighten up the meal.
Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.