When it comes to quick, crowd-pleasing meals, nothing beats BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls. These perfectly portioned sandwiches combine tender shredded chicken coated in smoky-sweet barbecue sauce with buttery, pillowy Hawaiian rolls. They’re a lifesaver on busy weeknights and a total hit at parties or game-day spreads. In this article, we’ll explore the inspiration behind this easy slider dinner idea, list the must-have ingredients, walk through each simple step, and share topping and side dish ideas. You’ll also find pro tips for leftovers, make-ahead options, and a detailed FAQ section to help you master these Hawaiian roll sliders.
Why BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Are a Family Favorite
A Backyard Memory That Sparked This BBQ Chicken Slider Recipe
It all started one breezy summer evening when the grill ran out of propane halfway through dinner prep. With a hungry crowd waiting—kids, neighbors, and friends—I needed a backup plan. I spotted leftover shredded chicken in the fridge, a bottle of thick, smoky barbecue sauce, and a pack of soft Hawaiian rolls. Within minutes, an idea formed: BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls.
That impromptu creation turned out to be the star of the night. The combination of saucy, tangy chicken tucked inside those golden, slightly sweet rolls was perfection. Each bite had a balance of flavors—sticky BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and the comforting sweetness of Hawaiian rolls that made everyone reach for seconds.
Since then, BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls have become a go-to for everything from last-minute weeknight dinners to backyard gatherings. Whether baked in the oven or warmed on the grill, these sliders deliver home-cooked comfort with a touch of fun. And the best part? You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings and sauces to make them as bold or mellow as you like.
Print
bbq chicken sliders on hawaiian rolls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Description
These BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls combine tender shredded chicken in smoky-sweet barbecue sauce with soft, buttery rolls for a quick and crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for weeknights, parties, or game-day gatherings, they’re easy to assemble, bake, and customize.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken and barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
3. Slice the Hawaiian roll sheet horizontally and place the bottom halves in the baking dish.
4. Spread the barbecue chicken mixture over the rolls and layer cheese slices on top.
5. Replace the roll tops and brush melted butter evenly over them, seasoning with garlic powder if desired.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until tops are golden and cheese is melted.
7. Let sliders rest for 5 minutes, then separate and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: sandwich
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 500
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 15
- Cholesterol: 50
Keywords: bbq chicken sliders, hawaiian roll sliders, easy slider dinner, party sliders, game day recipe, pull apart sliders, quick dinner, bbq chicken, slider recipe, weeknight meal
Why Hawaiian Rolls Make the Perfect Slider Base
There’s something magical about Hawaiian rolls when it comes to sliders. Their soft, fluffy texture soaks up just enough BBQ sauce without falling apart, and their gentle sweetness pairs beautifully with the smoky, savory flavor of the chicken. Each roll holds its shape as you bake the sliders together, creating a pull-apart tray that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Using Hawaiian rolls also makes this BBQ chicken sliders recipe nearly foolproof. You don’t have to fuss with burger buns or homemade dough—just slice the entire pack, fill, top, and bake. They’re the ultimate shortcut that doesn’t compromise on taste, offering a buttery warmth that complements any style of BBQ sauce, from tangy vinegar-based to rich molasses-sweet varieties.
It’s this texture-flavor balance that keeps BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls at the top of our family’s favorites list. Whether you’re feeding four or a full party crowd, these Hawaiian roll sliders always deliver comfort, convenience, and incredible taste in every bite.
Ingredients, Tools & Step-by-Step Recipe for BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls lies in their simplicity—you can make a full tray with just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients. Gather everything ahead of time, and you’ll have these mini sandwiches sizzling and ready in no time.
| Category | Ingredients | Measurements / Notes | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Shredded cooked chicken (breast or thigh) | 3 cups | Use rotisserie chicken for convenience |
| BBQ Sauce | Your favorite BBQ sauce | 1 cup | Smoky, sweet, or spicy styles all work |
| Cheese | Sliced cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack | 6–8 slices | Swap for mozzarella or pepper jack |
| Rolls | Hawaiian sweet rolls | 1 package (12 rolls) | Any soft slider buns can substitute |
| Seasonings | Garlic powder, onion powder, salt & pepper | To taste | Optional—but adds flavor depth |
| Topping Butter | Melted butter | 3 tbsp | Brush on top for golden finish |
| Optional Add-Ons | Diced jalapeños, bacon bits, caramelized onions | As desired | Customize to your taste |
Optional Tools & Equipment:
- 9×13 baking dish or sheet pan
- Serrated knife for slicing the rolls
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush for butter glaze
- Aluminum foil for baking coverage
Step-by-Step: How to Make BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
- Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Chicken and Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Taste and adjust flavor with additional sauce or seasoning. For a smoky kick, add chipotle powder or a pinch of cayenne.
- Slice and Layer the Rolls: Using a serrated knife, slice the Hawaiian roll sheet horizontally to keep all rolls attached. Lay the bottoms in the dish, spread the BBQ chicken evenly, top with cheese slices, then place the roll tops back on.
- Brush and Bake: Melt butter, add garlic powder or parsley, and brush over the tops. Cover loosely with foil and bake 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5 more minutes until golden and melted.
- Slice, Serve, and Enjoy: Let sliders cool for 5 minutes. Cut apart, serve warm, and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Sliders:
- Prevent sogginess by coating chicken lightly in sauce; drizzle more after baking if desired.
- Keep rolls soft by baking covered with foil for part of the time.
- Rotisserie chicken saves time and still gives amazing flavor.
- Double the recipe for parties and bake on two racks, rotating pans halfway through.
Toppings, Sides & Serving Tips for Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
Best Toppings for BBQ Chicken Sliders
One of the best parts of making BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls is how easy they are to customize. Once the base of juicy BBQ chicken and melty cheese is ready, you can dress them up however you like. Whether you prefer classic comfort or bold flavor twists, toppings add that final burst of personality to every bite.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds tangy balance to the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls.
- Coleslaw: Provides cool, creamy crunch against the saucy chicken.
- Caramelized Onions: Deepen smoky flavor and enhance sweetness.
- Pickled Jalapeños: Lend mild spice that wakes up the palate.
- Crispy Bacon: Adds salty crunch and richness.
- Pickles or Pickled Red Onions: Offer acidity for balance.
Flavor Pairing Tips:
- For a sweet style: caramelized onions and extra BBQ drizzle.
- For smoky flavor: add smoked gouda or bacon with chipotle mayo.
- For spicy-bold taste: jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and a touch of hot sauce.
Create a topping bar with slaw, cheese slices, and condiments so everyone can customize their slider—ideal for parties and game-day spreads.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Round out your BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls with sides that bring color and balance to your plate.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Corn Salad | Sweet and tangy | Bright freshness contrasts the BBQ |
| Baked Beans | Smoky and hearty | Pairs with classic BBQ flavor |
| Potato Wedges | Crispy and savory | Perfect for dipping |
| Fruit Skewers | Light and juicy | Refreshes the palate |
| Macaroni Salad | Creamy and cool | Balances warm saucy chicken |
| Fresh Green Salad | Crisp and light | Adds freshness and crunch |
Drink Pairing Ideas: For adults, beer or cider delivers a crisp contrast. For families, try lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water with a twist of lime.
Presentation Tips:
- Arrange tightly on a wooden board for easy grab-and-eat style.
- Offer multiple flavor variations—classic, spicy, cheesy—for buffets.
- Set out dipping sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, and extra BBQ for fun customization.
FAQs & Conclusion – All About BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make BBQ Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble sliders a few hours in advance, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for 15–20 minutes at 350°F until heated and melty.
What’s the best cheese for Hawaiian roll sliders?
Cheddar melts perfectly with balanced flavor. Monterey Jack, provolone, or smoked gouda are great alternatives.
How do I reheat sliders without them getting dry?
Wrap sliders in foil and heat at 325°F for about 10–12 minutes to keep them soft. For small batches, microwave under a damp paper towel for 30 seconds.
Can I use other proteins like pork or tofu?
Absolutely. Swap chicken for shredded pork, turkey, beef, or BBQ-marinated tofu for a vegetarian option. Keep the same sweet and smoky balance for best results.
Are these sliders freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze assembled unbaked sliders wrapped tightly for up to one month. Thaw overnight before baking, or freeze baked ones individually for quick reheating.
Final Thoughts on Making BBQ Chicken Sliders at Home
BBQ Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are the perfect mix of easy preparation and rich flavor. Whether you need an effortless weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these warm, saucy sliders deliver every time.
The soft, lightly sweet Hawaiian rolls are the foundation that ties everything together—absorbing BBQ sauce without falling apart, complementing the melted cheese, and creating that irresistible pull-apart texture.
With endless customization options for toppings, sides, and sauces, Hawaiian roll sliders fit any occasion. Try them baked up fresh, layered with your favorite flavors, and you’ll find this simple idea turning into one of your most requested meals at home.
