When it comes to food, nothing quite compares to the tantalizing aroma of BBQ chicken sliders nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. Picture this: a sunny afternoon, laughter ringing in the air, and a platter of these delicious sliders that are just begging to be devoured. The smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce mingles with tender chicken, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Trust me; your friends will be begging for the recipe.

These sliders are not just for game day or summer barbecues; they’re perfect for any occasion where joy and good food meet. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply enjoying a cozy night in, BBQ chicken sliders on Hawaiian rolls are sure to elevate the experience. Get ready for some serious flavor excitement!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These BBQ chicken sliders on Hawaiian rolls are super easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The sweet and smoky flavor profile is guaranteed to please everyone at the table
- With their vibrant colors and enticing aromas, these sliders will steal the show at any gathering
- Perfect for parties but versatile enough for an everyday meal
I still remember the first time I made these BBQ chicken sliders for my best friend’s birthday party. Everyone raved about them, and my friend even suggested I should start a food blog!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 pieces depending on how many hungry mouths you need to feed.
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Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for an extra personal touch.
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Hawaiian Rolls: Opt for soft, sweet rolls to complement the savory chicken perfectly.
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Coleslaw: Adds crunch and creaminess—don’t skip this essential topping!
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Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle adds freshness that brightens up each bite.
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Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken—extra virgin is always a good choice.
For the Sauce:
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Smoked Paprika: This spice brings depth of flavor; it’s like giving your chicken a warm hug.
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Garlic Powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick; avoid using fresh garlic here as it can burn easily.
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Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can better control the saltiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together on your counter. Chop up any fresh veggies you plan on adding later.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side.
Add Flavor: While the chicken cooks, mix barbecue sauce with smoked paprika and garlic powder in a small bowl. This combo adds richness and depth.
Baste and Simmer: Once cooked through, pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Cover and let simmer for 5 minutes until well-coated and heated through.
Prepare Sliders: Slice Hawaiian rolls in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Spoon generous portions of BBQ chicken onto each roll.
Add Toppings: Top with coleslaw and cilantro before placing the other half of the roll back on top—feel free to pile it high!
Now you have scrumptious BBQ chicken sliders ready to impress anyone who walks through your door! Enjoy every bite as they disappear faster than you can say “delicious.”
You Must Know
- These BBQ chicken sliders on Hawaiian rolls are a sweet and savory delight
- The combination of flavors creates an irresistible dish perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in
- The rolls soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite a burst of flavor
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slow-cooking the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce, then shred it. While that simmers, slice the Hawaiian rolls and toast them lightly to enhance their sweetness and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the BBQ sauce for teriyaki or add pineapple slices for an extra tropical twist. You can also mix in jalapeños for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To avoid soggy sliders, serve them immediately after assembling
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut that still tastes homemade
- Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect flavor match!
Sharing this recipe with friends once resulted in unexpected laughter when someone mistook my BBQ chicken sliders for dessert, thinking they were sweet pastries!
FAQ
Can I use other types of rolls?
Yes, any soft roll can work, but Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness.
How long does it take to cook the chicken?
Cooking shredded chicken typically takes about 6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare all components, then assemble just before serving for best results.

BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 sliders 1x
Description
BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible treat for any gathering. Tender chicken smothered in smoky barbecue sauce is nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls, creating a flavor sensation that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Quick to prepare and packed with deliciousness, these sliders are ideal for game day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup coleslaw
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping veggies and gathering all items.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook seasoned chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Pour over cooked chicken and let simmer covered for 5 minutes.
- Slice Hawaiian rolls in half and place cut-side up on a baking sheet. Spoon BBQ chicken onto each roll.
- Top with coleslaw and cilantro before placing the other half of the roll back on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (130g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg