Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders Savory and Simple Meal
Craving a quick and tasty meal? Look no further than these Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders! They’re savory, simple, and perfect for any weekday dinner. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have tender chicken coated in rich BBQ sauce, ready to pile on soft slider buns. Whether it’s for game day or a family feast, these sliders promise to satisfy everyone. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Flavorful BBQ: The combination of BBQ sauce and spices creates a rich and delicious flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your sliders with coleslaw and pickles for extra crunch and zing, catering to everyone’s taste.
- Family-Friendly: These sliders are a hit with both kids and adults, making them a great choice for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
The chicken is the star of this dish. I always go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook nicely and shred easily. The BBQ sauce adds sweet and tangy flavors. You can pick any sauce you love. The chicken broth keeps the meat juicy and adds depth to the taste.
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings (coleslaw, pickles)
The seasonings are key to making the chicken burst with flavor. Garlic powder and onion powder bring a savory taste. Smoked paprika adds a nice smoky note. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper for balance. For toppings, coleslaw adds crunch and freshness. Pickles give a tangy twist that brightens each bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Seasoning Chicken Breasts
First, take your chicken breasts out. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. This mix gives the chicken a great flavor. Use your hands to rub the spices in well.
Adding Ingredients to Instant Pot
Next, put the seasoned chicken into the Instant Pot. Pour the chicken broth over it. Then, add your favorite BBQ sauce on top. This sauce will make the chicken juicy and tasty.
Cooking Process
Setting Up Instant Pot
Close the lid tightly on the Instant Pot. Make sure the vent is sealed. This step helps build pressure for cooking.
Pressure Cooking Time
Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 15 minutes. After it beeps, let it release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. Then, do a quick release for any extra pressure.
Shredding and Assembling the Sliders
Shredding Chicken
Once you open the lid, the chicken should be tender. Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the pot. Mix it well with the BBQ sauce until every piece is coated.
Spoon Chicken on Slider Buns
Take your slider buns and place the bottom half on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken on each bun. If you like, add coleslaw for some crunch. Place the top half of the bun on each slider. You can also add pickles for extra flavor. Serve these warm for a delicious meal.
Pro Tips
- Use Thighs for Juiciness: Chicken thighs can provide a richer flavor and juiciness compared to chicken breasts, making your sliders even more delicious.
- Let it Rest: After shredding the chicken, let it sit in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb more flavor before assembling the sliders.
- Toast the Buns: For added texture and flavor, lightly toast the slider buns before assembling your sliders.
- Experiment with Sauces: Don’t hesitate to try different BBQ sauces or even mix them for a unique taste that suits your preference.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting BBQ Chicken Sliders
Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce
Pick a BBQ sauce that matches your taste. You can use sweet, spicy, or tangy sauces. My favorites include a honey BBQ for sweetness or a Kansas City style for rich flavor. Feel free to mix sauces for a unique taste!
Tips for Shredding Chicken Easily
To shred chicken fast, use two forks. Just hold the chicken in one fork and pull apart with the other. Doing this in the Instant Pot helps keep the chicken moist. Make sure to mix the chicken with the sauce after shredding for extra flavor.
Enhancing Flavors
Additional Seasoning Recommendations
You can add more spices for a kick. Try cayenne pepper for heat or cumin for warmth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can deepen the flavor, too. Experiment with what you love!
Pairing Suggestions
Serve these sliders with crunchy sides. Coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the sauce. You might also enjoy potato chips or a fresh salad alongside. Don’t forget pickles for a tangy finish!
Variations
Different Meats
You can switch up your sliders with different meats. Pulled pork works great. It offers a rich, smoky flavor. Just use the same method. You can also use turkey. Ground turkey or turkey breasts both work well. They absorb the BBQ sauce nicely.
Slider Topping Variations
Toppings can change the whole meal. Try different slaw recipes. For a twist, use apple slaw. It adds a sweet crunch. You might also consider spicy slaw. This can give your sliders a kick.
For garnishes, pickles are classic. They add a nice tang. You can also use jalapeños for heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten flavors. Just sprinkle them on top. Get creative and mix it up!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To store your leftover BBQ chicken sliders, follow these steps:
- Place the sliders in an airtight container.
- Keep them in the fridge.
- They last for up to 3 days.
- Make sure they cool before sealing.
Refrigeration keeps the sliders fresh. You can also store the chicken separately from the buns. This way, the buns stay soft.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save BBQ chicken sliders for later, freezing is a great option:
- Shred the chicken and mix it with BBQ sauce.
- Spoon the mixture into freezer bags.
- Remove excess air and seal tightly.
- Label the bags with the date.
These can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to use freezer-safe bags to keep the chicken fresh.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your sliders again, reheating is key:
- Use the microwave for quick reheating. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
- For better texture, use the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes.
- If you froze the chicken, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating helps restore moisture and flavor. Keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out. Enjoy your tasty sliders!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. It is a great option for busy days. When using frozen chicken, just remember to adjust the cooking time to 20 minutes instead of 15. The Instant Pot will still cook the chicken perfectly.
1. Place the frozen chicken in the pot.
2. Add the BBQ sauce and chicken broth as usual.
3. Seal the lid and set it to high pressure.
The Instant Pot will do its magic and ensure the chicken is tender and juicy.
How do I get the chicken to shred easily?
To shred chicken easily, cook it until it’s very tender. Follow these tips for perfect results:
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart.
- Shred the chicken right in the pot. This keeps it moist.
- Ensure you mix it well with the BBQ sauce after shredding. This adds great flavor.
With these steps, you will get perfectly shredded chicken every time.
What type of BBQ sauce is best for sliders?
The best BBQ sauce is one that fits your taste. Here are some suggestions:
- Sweet BBQ Sauce: This works well if you like a touch of sweetness.
- Spicy BBQ Sauce: Perfect for those who enjoy a kick.
- Smoky BBQ Sauce: This adds a rich, deep flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite for the sliders!
You’ve learned how to make tasty Instant Pot BBQ chicken sliders. We covered key ingredients, steps, and tips. Remember to pick the right sauce and season well for great flavor. Try different meats and toppings to keep things fresh. Store and reheat wisely to enjoy them later. You can easily make this dish at home. With practice, your sliders will impress everyone. Enjoy experimenting with this fun and simple recipe!
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slider buns
Coleslaw, for topping (optional)
Pickles, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
Add to Instant Pot: Place the seasoned chicken in the Instant Pot and pour the chicken broth and BBQ sauce over the top.
Cook the Chicken: Close the lid, seal the vent, and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release for any remaining pressure.
Shred the Chicken: Open the lid and use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot. Stir it well to coat with the sauce.
Assemble the Sliders: Take the slider buns and spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken onto the bottom half. Add coleslaw if desired for added crunch.
Finish and Serve: Top with the other half of the slider bun. Optionally, add pickles on top for an extra zing. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 8 pieces slider buns
- optional coleslaw for topping
- optional pickles for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the Instant Pot and pour the chicken broth and BBQ sauce over the top.
- Close the lid, seal the vent, and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot. Stir it well to coat with the sauce.
- Take the slider buns and spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken onto the bottom half. Add coleslaw if desired for added crunch.
- Top with the other half of the slider bun. Optionally, add pickles on top for an extra zing. Serve warm.
![- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped - 1/2 cup dried cranberries - 1/2 cup sunflower seeds - 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt - 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar - 1 tablespoon honey - Salt and pepper to taste For this classic broccoli salad, you start with fresh produce. I love using bright green broccoli florets. They add a lovely crunch and color. Cherry tomatoes bring sweetness, while red onion adds a nice bite. Next, we add some fun components. Dried cranberries offer a sweet contrast. Sunflower seeds give a nutty flavor and crunch. Shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds richness. Now, let’s not forget about the dressing. I prefer Greek yogurt for creaminess. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick. Honey sweetens the mix just right. Finally, a sprinkle of salt and pepper rounds it all out. With these ingredients, you create a dish that is both nutritious and refreshing! For the full recipe, check out the Broccoli Bliss Salad. To start, we need to blanch the broccoli florets. Blanching means cooking them quickly. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the florets and boil for just 2 to 3 minutes. This makes the broccoli bright green and keeps it crunchy. After boiling, drain the broccoli right away. Next, you should immerse it in ice water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the color bright. Once chilled, drain the broccoli well and pat it dry with a clean towel. Now, it's time to mix our salad. In a large bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and shredded cheddar cheese. Each ingredient adds a unique flavor and texture. In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing. Whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. This dressing is creamy and tangy. Pour it over the salad mixture and toss gently. Make sure every piece is well coated in dressing. After mixing, taste the salad. Adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add more salt or pepper. This step is important for the best flavor. Once seasoned, let the salad chill in the fridge. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely. When you serve it, the salad will be cool and refreshing, perfect for any meal. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To make the best classic broccoli salad, start with fresh ingredients. Use crisp broccoli florets. They should be bright green and firm. This keeps the texture crunchy and fun to eat. Blanch the broccoli briefly, then cool it in ice water. This step locks in the vibrant color and taste. Chilling your salad is key to enhancing flavors. After mixing, let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes. This waiting time allows the ingredients to meld. The flavors become richer and more balanced. For a beautiful display, serve the salad in a large glass bowl. This lets the vibrant colors shine. You can also layer the ingredients for a nice effect. Garnish with extra sunflower seeds or cranberries. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color. This makes the salad look even more inviting. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals. It has vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. These nutrients support your immune system and digestion. The dried cranberries add antioxidants and a touch of sweetness. To make the salad even healthier, you can use plain Greek yogurt. It adds protein without extra calories. Swap out the cheddar for a lighter cheese, or leave it out. You can also add grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein. These changes can boost the nutrition of your dish. For the full recipe, check out the Broccoli Bliss Salad 🥦. {{image_2}} You can change the recipe to fit your needs. For a dairy-free version, use alternative yogurt. There are many options like almond or coconut yogurt. They add creaminess without dairy. If you want extra protein, try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. Grilled chicken gives a nice smoky flavor. Chickpeas add a hearty texture and are great for plant-based diets. Want a kick? Add jalapeños or sriracha for spice. These ingredients can wake up the salad and bring heat. Just a little makes a big difference. If you prefer sweetness, try diced apples or pears. They add a crunchy texture and a hint of natural sugar. This balance of sweet and savory makes the salad even better. You can mix up the dressing too. A vinegar-based dressing is a fresh alternative. Combine vinegar with olive oil for a light and tangy taste. For a creamy twist, use dressings other than Greek yogurt. You might try ranch or a creamy tahini dressing. These options can change the flavor profile while keeping it delicious. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. To keep your classic broccoli salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps to lock in flavor and crunch. Always place it in the fridge right after serving. The salad stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Check for any signs of wilting or spoilage before eating. Freezing broccoli salad is not ideal. The texture of fresh ingredients can change when thawed. If you must freeze it, separate the dressing from the salad mix. This helps to keep the veggies crisp. When ready to eat, thaw the salad in the fridge overnight. Add the dressing just before serving to restore its taste. You can make the salad ahead of time, but store parts separately. Keep the blanched broccoli, tomatoes, and other veggies in one container. Store the dressing in another. This keeps everything fresh and tasty. Combine right before serving for the best flavor. Always chill the salad for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to blend well. For the full recipe, check out the broccoli bliss salad. You can keep classic broccoli salad in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. The salad stays fresh if stored in an airtight container. Over time, the vegetables may soften, but it will still taste good. Yes, you can make broccoli salad in advance. I often prepare it a day ahead. This allows the flavors to blend well. Just remember to keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. You can add many tasty ingredients to broccoli salad. Some favorites include: - Cooked bacon pieces - Chopped apples for sweetness - Grated carrots for crunch - Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts - Diced bell peppers for color Feel free to mix and match based on your taste! Using frozen broccoli is okay, but I recommend using fresh for the best taste and texture. If you choose frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well. Blanching frozen broccoli briefly can help it stay vibrant and crisp. This blog post covered how to make a fresh and tasty broccoli salad. We highlighted ingredients such as broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and cheddar cheese. The steps included blanching broccoli, mixing everything, and perfecting the dressing. Remember, chilling the salad boosts its flavor. Plus, various tips helped enhance your dish. You can customize with lots of fun add-ins. Store it well, and enjoy each bite fresh. This salad is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. Get creative and make it your own!](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/c30f1a23-0ac2-43f2-95bf-3ec2b469a032-768x768.webp)
. To make your Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites truly amazing, use Panko breadcrumbs. They add a great crunch that regular breadcrumbs can't match. When you coat the florets, spray them lightly with olive oil. This helps them get golden and crispy. For a tasty twist, pair the bites with marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping. Both options bring out the flavors of the cauliflower. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top. It adds a pop of color and freshness. Be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet. If the florets are too close, they will steam instead of crisp. Also, make sure each floret has an even coating of the breadcrumb mix. This ensures every bite is crispy and delicious. {{image_2}} You can easily change the heat of your cauliflower bites. Just add more cayenne or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. If you love herbs, try Italian seasoning for a fresh twist. These simple changes can make your bites even more exciting. Want a different cheese flavor? Switch it up! Use cheddar for a sharp taste or mozzarella for a milder touch. You can also adjust the cheese amount to fit your taste. More cheese gives a richer flavor, while less keeps it light. If you need a gluten-free version, it's easy! Just swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bites without worry. Remember to check the Full Recipe for detailed steps and measurements! You should let your cauliflower bites cool completely before storing them. Once cool, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. I often use a glass container with a tight lid. It works well to prevent moisture from getting in. For the best texture, reheat your cauliflower bites in the oven. Set your oven to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes. This helps regain their crispiness. If you are short on time, you can use the microwave. Just know that they may lose some crunch this way. You can freeze raw coated florets before baking. This makes meal prep super easy. Just coat the florets as usual and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you are ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen. Just add a few more minutes to the baking time. This method makes it simple to enjoy these crispy bites anytime. For the full recipe, check back to the beginning. Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites usually last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their taste and texture. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it’s best to toss them out. Yes, you can prep and coat them ahead of time. Just coat the florets and keep them in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for the best results. This keeps them crispy and hot, perfect for sharing with friends or family. These bites pair well with many dipping sauces. You can try ranch, marinara, or mustard. Each dip adds its own flavor, making your snack even more tasty. Feel free to get creative with sauces you enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the complete details above. Making Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower Bites is simple and fun. We covered key ingredients, from fresh cauliflower to tasty seasonings. I shared step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving that perfect crunch. You can customize these bites to fit your taste or dietary needs. Don’t forget to store them well for later. With a bit of practice, you’ll impress friends and family with this healthy snack. Enjoy the making and sharing of these bites!](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/cd5319ec-8bde-454d-b3ba-e0a3ba5bfe99-768x768.webp)