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These Shredded Rotisserie Chicken Sliders have become my favorite quick fix for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Warm layered rolls filled with juicy chicken and tangy toppings, all made in under an hour with minimal fuss – these sliders are as satisfying as they are simple.
I first made these for a game day spread and everyone wanted seconds. Now they are on regular rotation for Friday nights and summer cookouts.
Ingredients
- Sweet Hawaiian rolls: deliver sweetness and softness for the perfect slider bun Look for packs that are pillowy when squeezed
- Rotisserie chicken: shredded for juicy tender filling Use freshly cooked or great quality supermarket chicken
- Spicy mayo: brings a little heat and tang Mix sriracha with mayo to your preferred level of spice
- Smoked provolone cheese: melts beautifully and adds a rich smoky note Buy slices from the deli for best texture
- Pickles: add crunch and brightness Choose quality dill pickles and slice thin
- Tomato: brings juiciness and freshness Opt for ripe plum or beefsteak tomatoes cut thin
- Red onion: gives sharpness and bite Always slice as thin as possible for even layering
- Unsalted butter: forms the base for the garlic herb topping Use high quality butter for the most flavor
- Garlic: grated fresh for a stronger flavor profile Mince or microplane it for fine texture
- Fresh parsley: brings color and herbal lift Use flat leaf for the best taste
- Kosher salt: balances all flavors for the herby topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Rolls:
- Carefully slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally with a serrated knife Keep the shape intact for easier assembly
- Layer the Base:
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish Spread spicy mayo evenly to every edge to lock in flavor and moisture
- Add the Chicken:
- Shred your rotisserie chicken by hand or with forks and distribute an even layer over the mayo Make sure every corner gets plenty
- Melt the Cheese:
- Lay provolone slices directly on top of chicken so it will melt into the filling while baking
- Build the Toppings:
- Layer thin tomato slices then red onion and top with pickles A scatter here ensures each bite has a pop of freshness
- Make the Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl combine melted butter fresh parsley grated garlic and kosher salt Mix together until fragrant and brushable
- Finish and Bake:
- Set the top half of the rolls onto your sandwich stack Brush the herby garlic butter evenly over the tops for golden color and extra flavor Cover with foil and bake for twenty minutes then remove the foil and bake five minutes more until the tops are lightly golden and crisp
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My favorite part is how the herby garlic butter soaks into the bread Making these for a birthday party last year everyone raved about the melty cheesy centers and crunchy tops It really reminds me of family picnics with big pans of hot sliders
Storage tips
Keep leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge and they will stay fresh for up to three days Reheat in the oven covered in foil to maintain their tenderness If freezing allow baked sliders to cool fully wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating
Ingredient substitutions
Feel free to get creative with the cheese Swiss or pepper jack work well For the spicy mayo try a honey mustard blend or chipotle lime aioli Swap the pickles for sliced banana peppers or use spinach instead of tomato if you like A barbecue sauce or buffalo style sauce on the chicken is also a tasty twist
Serving suggestions
Serve these warm as an appetizer for parties or as a fun main with potato chips or a crisp salad They are a hit on game days but also pack up well for lunchboxes Even a platter with extra pickles or dipping sauces on the side is a crowd pleaser
Cultural and historical context
Sliders have their roots in American diner culture often associated with mini burgers These easy chicken sliders are a playful spin using the convenience of rotisserie chicken and the signature flavor of sweet Hawaiian bread Making them for gatherings lets everyone grab a portion without fuss
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shred rotisserie chicken quickly?
Use two forks to pull apart the chicken breast and thighs, or speed things up with a stand mixer or hand mixer for even shreds.
- → Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Sliced roast beef, ham, prosciutto, or even turkey make delicious alternatives in these sliders.
- → Which kind of cheese works best?
Smoked provolone adds rich flavor, but Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella are tasty substitutes based on your preference.
- → How do I keep the sliders from becoming soggy?
Layering spicy mayo first and baking uncovered briefly at the end helps keep the bread crisp and avoid sogginess.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to a few hours in advance, then brush with garlic butter and bake just before serving for best texture.