Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

Use a rotisserie chicken from the store to make this a very fast 15-minute prep meal. Add cooked bacon bits inside the sliders for a smoky and salty flavor boost everyone loves. Swap the red onion for pickled jalapeƱos if you want a spicy kick in every bite. Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella to add a little bit of heat to the sliders. Ensure the butter is slightly cooled before brushing so it does not soak into the bread too fast. Make these ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

This Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any family gathering or party. It features juicy shredded chicken tangy barbecue sauce and melted cheese inside soft sweet rolls.

Learning how to make Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls is a great way to serve a big group quickly. You only need a few simple ingredients to create these very savory and addictive mini sandwiches today.

This Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is famous for its buttery topping and perfect balance of flavors. Once you pull these hot sliders out of the oven, everyone will be reaching for seconds immediately.

My Story With This Comforting Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls

I remember a very busy Saturday during the big game season when my house was full of hungry friends. I needed a meal that was easy to eat while standing up and cheering for the team.

I decided to try these sliders because I love the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls paired with spicy sauce.As the sliders baked, the smell of garlic butter and sweet bread filled the entire living room.

My friends kept peaking into the kitchen, asking when the “magic rolls” would be ready for them. When I finally set the tray down, the entire batch disappeared in less than ten minutes.

We all laughed about how such a simple dish could taste so much like a professional catering meal. Now, these sliders are my secret weapon for every birthday, potluck, and busy weeknight in our home.

It is a humble recipe that brings a lot of smiles and full bellies to my favorite people.

Equipment List

  • A 9×13 inch baking dish or a large rimmed cookie sheet
  • A long serrated bread knife for slicing the entire pack of rolls
  • A large mixing bowl to combine the chicken and sauce
  • A small microwave-safe bowl to melt the savory garlic butter
  • A pastry brush for coating the tops of the rolls evenly
  • Aluminum foil to cover the dish during the first half of baking
  • Measuring cups and spoons for the sauce and spices
  • A sturdy spatula for serving the hot sliders onto plates

Recipe Overview

  • Recipe Name: Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls
  • Servings: 12 sliders
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Course: Main Dish / Appetizer
  • Cuisine: American Fusion
  • Calories: 245 kcal per serving
Use a rotisserie chicken from the store to make this a very fast 15-minute prep meal. Add cooked bacon bits inside the sliders for a smoky and salty flavor boost everyone loves. Swap the red onion for pickled jalapeƱos if you want a spicy kick in every bite. Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella to add a little bit of heat to the sliders. Ensure the butter is slightly cooled before brushing so it does not soak into the bread too fast. Make these ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

Ingredients for Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

  • 1 pack (12 count) King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
  • 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce (honey or hickory flavor)
  • 2 cups shredded Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 small red onion, very thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
  • A pinch of sesame seeds for the crusty top

Instruction for Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

1. Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the sweet rolls from sticking to the bottom of the pan while they bake.

2. Slice the Rolls

Keep the Hawaiian rolls connected in one large block and slice them horizontally through the middle. Place the bottom half of the rolls into your prepared baking dish, cut side facing up.

3. Mix the Chicken

In your large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce and a splash of honey. Stir until every piece of chicken is fully coated in the thick, tangy, and savory sauce.

4. Add the Base Layer

Spread half of the shredded cheese evenly over the bottom half of the rolls in the baking dish. The cheese acts as a “glue” to keep the chicken from sliding off the bread.

5. Layer the Chicken

Scoop the barbecue chicken mixture onto the cheese layer and spread it out to all the edges. Make sure the chicken is piled evenly so every slider gets a generous amount of meat.

6. Top with Onions

Place the thinly sliced red onions over the chicken layer for a fresh crunch and a bold flavor. You can skip the onions if your kids prefer a much milder and simpler sandwich.

7. Add More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the chicken and onions for extra gooey goodness. Cover the entire dish with the top half of the Hawaiian rolls, pressing down very gently.

8. Make the Glaze

Whisk the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley together in your small bowl until well combined. This savory glaze is what makes the crust of the sliders taste so incredible and professional.

9. Brush the Tops

Use your pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the rolls with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle a few sesame seeds over the butter for a classic, bakery-style look and extra texture.

10. Bake and Serve

Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then remove foil and bake 10 more minutes until golden. Slice between the rolls with your knife and serve them hot while the cheese is still stretchy.

Cooking Tips and Simple Recipe Variations

  • Use a rotisserie chicken from the store to make this a very fast 15-minute prep meal.
  • Add cooked bacon bits inside the sliders for a smoky and salty flavor boost everyone loves.
  • Swap the red onion for pickled jalapeƱos if you want a spicy kick in every bite.
  • Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella to add a little bit of heat to the sliders.
  • Ensure the butter is slightly cooled before brushing so it does not soak into the bread too fast.
  • Make these ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

Little History Behind This Comfort Food

The “slider” originally referred to small, greasy hamburgers from fast-food chains like White Castle in the 1920s. Over time, home cooks started using soft Hawaiian rolls to create easier, oven-baked versions for parties.

Hawaiian rolls were invented in the 1950s in Hilo, Hawaii, and became famous for their sweet, fluffy texture. Combining Southern-style barbecue chicken with these sweet Pacific rolls created a modern American classic.

It became a viral sensation because it is so easy to make a dozen sandwiches at one time. Today, these sliders are a staple at every Super Bowl party and backyard cookout across the country.

They represent the fun, casual, and sharing-focused style of modern American home cooking and entertaining.

What to Serve With This Dish

This Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe pairs perfectly with crunchy coleslaw on the side or inside. You can also serve them with salty potato chips, French fries, or a fresh garden salad. For a backyard vibe, try serving them alongside grilled corn on the cob or baked beans.

A few dill pickle spears provide a nice sour crunch that balances the sweetness of the bread. Because they are small, they also go great with a variety of other party appetizers like wings.

A cold soda or a glass of sweet iced tea is the perfect drink for this meal.

Occasion or Event Ideas

Make this Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe for your next family movie night or game day. They are a fantastic choice for a graduation party because they stay warm and are easy to grab.

These sliders are perfect for a late-night snack during a holiday celebration with your close friends. Use them as a quick and fun dinner for kids during a busy school week or weekend.

They are also a great dish to bring to a neighborhood potluck or a community picnic event. Any time you have a group of hungry people, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • To keep them from getting soggy, place a paper towel in the container to absorb extra moisture.
  • Reheat individual sliders in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for the best crunch.
  • I do not recommend using a microwave because the bread can become very chewy and tough.
  • You can wrap individual sliders in foil and freeze them for up to one month for snacks.
  • Always check that the chicken is heated through to the center before serving the leftovers.

Nutrition Information

NutrientAmount
Calories245 kcal
Total Fat12g
Saturated Fat6g
Carbohydrates22g
Fiber1g
Protein14g

Is This Dish Good for You?

This Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is a great source of lean protein from the chicken. The chicken helps build muscle and keeps you feeling satisfied for a long time after your meal.

By making these at home, you can choose a barbecue sauce that is lower in refined sugar. Using fresh red onions adds a small boost of antioxidants and vitamins to your diet as well.

While it is a comfort food, it is much better than buying processed fast-food burgers or sandwiches. It is a perfect example of a balanced treat that brings joy and energy to your family.

Sharing a tray of homemade sliders is a beautiful way to connect with your friends and neighbors.

Use a rotisserie chicken from the store to make this a very fast 15-minute prep meal. Add cooked bacon bits inside the sliders for a smoky and salty flavor boost everyone loves. Swap the red onion for pickled jalapeƱos if you want a spicy kick in every bite. Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella to add a little bit of heat to the sliders. Ensure the butter is slightly cooled before brushing so it does not soak into the bread too fast. Make these ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

This Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any family gathering or party. It features juicy shredded chicken tangy barbecue sauce and melted cheese inside soft sweet rolls.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Dish / Appetizer
Cuisine American Fusion
Servings 12
Calories 245 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pack 12 count King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
  • 3 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
  • 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce honey or hickory flavor
  • 2 cups shredded Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 small red onion very thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon honey optional for extra sweetness
  • A pinch of sesame seeds for the crusty top

Instructions
 

Prep the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the sweet rolls from sticking to the bottom of the pan while they bake.

Slice the Rolls

  • Keep the Hawaiian rolls connected in one large block and slice them horizontally through the middle. Place the bottom half of the rolls into your prepared baking dish, cut side facing up.

Mix the Chicken

  • In your large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce and a splash of honey. Stir until every piece of chicken is fully coated in the thick, tangy, and savory sauce.

Add the Base Layer

  • Spread half of the shredded cheese evenly over the bottom half of the rolls in the baking dish. The cheese acts as a “glue” to keep the chicken from sliding off the bread.

Layer the Chicken

  • Scoop the barbecue chicken mixture onto the cheese layer and spread it out to all the edges. Make sure the chicken is piled evenly so every slider gets a generous amount of meat.

Top with Onions

  • Place the thinly sliced red onions over the chicken layer for a fresh crunch and a bold flavor. You can skip the onions if your kids prefer a much milder and simpler sandwich.

Add More Cheese

  • Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the chicken and onions for extra gooey goodness. Cover the entire dish with the top half of the Hawaiian rolls, pressing down very gently.

Make the Glaze

  • Whisk the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley together in your small bowl until well combined. This savory glaze is what makes the crust of the sliders taste so incredible and professional.

Brush the Tops

  • Use your pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the rolls with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle a few sesame seeds over the butter for a classic, bakery-style look and extra texture.

Bake and Serve

  • Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then remove foil and bake 10 more minutes until golden. Slice between the rolls with your knife and serve them hot while the cheese is still stretchy.

Notes

  • Use a rotisserie chicken from the store to make this a very fast 15-minute prep meal.
  • Add cooked bacon bits inside the sliders for a smoky and salty flavor boost everyone loves.
  • Swap the red onion for pickled jalapeƱos if you want a spicy kick in every bite.
  • Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella to add a little bit of heat to the sliders.
  • Ensure the butter is slightly cooled before brushing so it does not soak into the bread too fast.
  • Make these ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
Keyword Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

FAQs about Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

Can I use raw chicken for this recipe?

You should use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe to ensure the bread does not get too soggy. Cooked chicken also ensures the sliders are ready to eat as soon as the cheese is melted.

How do I prevent the bottom of the rolls from getting soft?

Baking them on a wire rack over a baking sheet can help air circulate and keep them crisp. Also, avoid using too much sauce directly on the bottom layer of the sweet Hawaiian rolls.

Can I use a different type of bread?

You can use dinner rolls or slider buns, but the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls is very special. The sugar in the bread balances the acidity of the barbecue sauce in a very unique way.

What is the best way to shred chicken quickly?

You can use two forks to pull the meat apart while it is still warm and tender. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed to shred it instantly.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the shredded chicken with pulled jackfruit or a plant-based chicken alternative for your meal. Just make sure to use the same amount of barbecue sauce and cheese for the best flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you have a fantastic time making this Bbq Chicken Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe in your kitchen today. It is a dish that proves how simple ingredients can create a truly legendary and comforting party meal.

There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a tray of golden, buttery rolls filled with gooey melted cheese. This recipe is fast reliable and will certainly become a favorite for your busy weekend dinner rotation.

Remember to brush on plenty of that garlic butter to get the most flavorful and professional-looking crust. Thank you for joining me to explore this tangy and very sweet American comfort food journey today.

Happy baking and I hope you enjoy every single cheesy and savory bite of your barbecue chicken sliders!

Hi! I’m Livy Lane, the creator of LivyCooks.com. I share easy, delicious recipes anyone can make at home. Let’s cook, taste and enjoy every bite together!