Smoky Garlic Chicken Sliders with Cheddar

Have you ever opened your fridge, stared at some chicken, and just wished dinner would magically make itself? I think we’ve all been there. That’s precisely why I want to share this recipe for Smoky Garlic Chicken Sliders with Cheddar with you today. It’s one of those wonderfully simple chicken recipes that feels like a cozy hug at the end of a long day. The shredded chicken is simmered in a smoky, garlicky sauce that’s just so good, and then tucked into soft rolls with a generous melt of cheddar. It’s the kind of quick and easy dinner that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

Top Reasons To Make It

• It’s incredibly fast. You can have these sliders on the table in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect solution for busy weeknights.
• The flavor is deep and smoky with a fantastic garlic kick, but it’s not at all complicated to achieve.
• It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken, turning it into a completely new and delicious meal.
• Everyone loves them! These sliders are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, perfect for a simple family dinner or feeding a casual crowd.

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast (from about 2 large breasts or 1 rotisserie chicken): The hearty, lean base of our sliders.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing our onions and garlic.
• 1/2 cup finely diced yellow onion: Adds a sweet, savory depth to the filling.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: For that essential, aromatic garlic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Builds a rich, savory base for the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides that warm, smoky flavor we love.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a touch of earthy warmth.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic flavor throughout.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Creates the saucy base that keeps the chicken moist.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex, savory umami note.
• 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls: The soft, fluffy vessel for our filling.
• 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved: For that perfect, melty cheesy top.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, colorful garnish.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly. This toasts the spices and deepens their flavor.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir until it’s evenly coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld. The chicken is already cooked, so we’re just heating it through and letting it soak up all that smoky garlic goodness.
6. While the chicken simmers, preheat your oven’s broiler on low and arrange your slider buns on a baking sheet.
7. Once the chicken mixture is hot and saucy, spoon it evenly onto the bottom halves of the slider buns.
8. Top each slider with a half-slice of cheddar cheese. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly and the bun tops are lightly toasted.
9. Remove from the oven, top with the toasted bun lids, garnish with parsley if you like, and serve immediately.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

These sliders are a complete meal all on their own, but I love rounding things out with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad or a tangy coleslaw provides a nice crunchy contrast to the warm, saucy sliders. For something warmer, a bowl of tomato soup for dipping or some sweet potato fries are always a crowd-pleaser. And if you’re looking for healthy dinner ideas, a simple side of carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or roasted broccoli works perfectly.

Variations & Substitutions

• No cooked chicken? You can quickly poach two large chicken breasts. Just place them in a pot, cover with water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Shred with two forks.
• Spice it up! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the skillet with the other spices. Honestly, if you love a little heat, it’s a fantastic addition.
• Dairy-free? Simply skip the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free cheddar-style slices. The smoky chicken filling is delicious all on its own.
• Not a fan of cumin? You can easily leave it out. The smoked paprika and garlic are the real stars here.
• For a fun twist, try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick, or Swiss cheese for a milder, nuttier flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Let any leftover chicken mixture cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a tiny splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce back up. I don’t recommend reheating the assembled sliders in the microwave, as the buns will get very soggy.

Quick Dinner Ideas

This recipe is a cornerstone of my quick dinner ideas list because it’s so versatile. Keep a container of pre-cooked shredded chicken in your fridge or freezer, and you’re already halfway to this meal. And the simple sauce comes together with pantry staples you likely already have. It’s one of those healthy chicken recipes that proves a satisfying dinner doesn’t have to take all evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! This method works wonderfully with pre-cooked turkey or even well-drained canned chicken in a real pinch.
• My family doesn’t like smoky flavors. What can I use instead? No problem! Just replace the smoked paprika with regular sweet paprika. You’ll still get a wonderful flavor without the smokiness.
• Can I make this in a slow cooker? You can! Simply add all ingredients (except the buns and cheese) to your slow cooker and stir. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, just to heat through and let the flavors combine. This is a great hands-off method.
• What’s the best way to shred chicken breast? I find it’s easiest to shred warm, cooked chicken using two forks, pulling the meat apart against the grain. It shreds so, so easily this way.