Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders Recipe

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate answer to those busy days when you crave a bold, saucy bite but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have juicy, pull-apart chicken infused with tangy barbecue magic, all tucked into soft, buttery buns—making these sliders irresistible for game days, parties, or weeknight dinners alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are short, sweet, and perfectly chosen to let the flavors shine in every bite. Each component brings something special—juiciness, richness, or that signature smoky BBQ flavor that makes Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders absolutely crave-worthy.

• Chicken Breasts (frozen): No need to thaw! Frozen chicken stays extra juicy and tender under pressure.
• Water: Helps the Instant Pot build pressure and gently cooks the chicken.
• Favorite BBQ Sauce: Choose your go-to brand or style—smoky, spicy, or sweet—since it’s the flavor backbone of these sliders.
• Butter (melted): Brushed on the buns, it adds a gorgeous sheen and an irresistible, rich finish.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings balance to the sauce.
• Freshly Cracked Pepper: Adds a subtle, spicy lift and a lovely speckled look when sprinkled over the buttered buns.

Variations

What I love about Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders is how forgiving and fun they are to riff on—perfect for accommodating allergies, diets, or simply whatever you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to add your own flair or swap ingredients based on what you love!

• Swap Out the Sauce: Try honey mustard BBQ, Korean gochujang, or spicy chipotle for a whole new flavor twist.
• Try Shredded Turkey or Pork: This recipe works beautifully with other proteins—great for using leftovers or mixing things up.
• Go Gluten-Free: Serve the BBQ chicken over sweet potato rounds, lettuce wraps, or gluten-free buns.
• Add Cheese: Top each slider with a slice of sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda before serving for melty, creamy decadence.

How to Make Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Add Chicken and Water

Place those frozen chicken breasts directly in the bottom of your Instant Pot—no thawing needed! Pour in a cup of water. This not only helps the pot pressurize but also keeps the chicken ultra moist as it cooks.

Step 2: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Secure the Instant Pot lid, make sure the steam valve is closed, and hit the Manual (or Pressure Cook) button. Set it for 15 minutes. When time is up, carefully slide the valve to venting and allow all the steam to escape before opening.

Step 3: Shred and Sauce the Chicken

Drain off any excess water (being cautious—it will be hot!), then transfer the chicken to a bowl. Use two forks to shred it up; the chicken will be so tender, this part is super satisfying. Fold in your favorite BBQ sauce, stirring well until every strand is glossy and coated.

Step 4: Butter and Toast the Buns

Brush each slider bun lightly with melted butter, then sprinkle over kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Pop them under a broiler or in a hot skillet for just a minute—watch carefully—for extra flavor and a gentle, golden crunch.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Layer the saucy BBQ chicken onto the bottom half of each warm bun, pile it high, then add your preferred toppings (like crunchy slaw or pickles) and cap it with the top bun. Serve your Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders immediately while everything’s hot and fresh!

How to Serve Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders

Garnishes

Add a fresh crunch and pop of color by topping your Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders with crisp coleslaw, sliced red onions, dill pickle chips, or a sprinkling of fresh chopped cilantro. These simple toppings brighten the flavors and make every bite exciting!

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with classic barbecue accompaniments like creamy potato salad, sweet corn on the cob, crispy oven fries, or a refreshing cucumber salad. Anything cool and crunchy pairs beautifully with the saucy, savory sliders.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange the sliders on a big wooden board, and set up a DIY topping bar so guests can build their own. Mini skewers or cocktail picks give them a fun, appetizer-style twist—perfect for mingling or game-day snacking!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Make sure the chicken cools to room temperature before sealing for maximum freshness.

Freezing

Cool the sauced chicken completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for an ultra-fast meal any day of the week!

Reheating

Reheat BBQ chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce if needed to prevent dryness. Stir occasionally and heat just until warmed through for best texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Give these Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sliders a try next time you need a recipe that’s fast, fun, and full of flavor. They’re bound to become your new go-to for weeknights or celebrations. Gather your friends and family, pile them high, and watch them disappear in no time!

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