Go Back
–+ servings

Air Fryer BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders

No ratings yet
Air Fryer BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders combine tender shredded chicken with bold barbecue flavors for a comforting dish ideal for gatherings or casual meals. The air fryer crisps the chicken edges, adding a desirable texture contrast that enhances each bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs more moist and flavorful than breasts, ensures tender pulled chicken
  • 1 cup quality BBQ sauce delivers sweet, smoky, and tangy profile
  • 12 slider buns soft small buns like brioche or potato hold the filling well
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds depth and subtle heat
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds depth and subtle heat
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder provides savory layers
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper provides savory layers
  • salt to taste, for seasoning chicken
  • optional coleslaw adds crisp, refreshing crunch as a topping
  • pickles or sliced onions brighten and balance flavors with acidity and texture, optional topping

Equipment

  • Air Fryer To cook and crisp the chicken efficiently
  • Skillet To toast the slider buns

Method
 

  1. Dry chicken thighs, then sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly over them.
  2. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through and edges are crisp.
  3. Let cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes, then shred using two forks.
  4. Toss shredded chicken in BBQ sauce, coating evenly without soaking.
  5. Lightly butter and toast slider buns in a skillet or air fryer to add richness and prevent sogginess.
  6. Place BBQ chicken on toasted buns and top with coleslaw or pickles if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Cool chicken completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
  • Reheat wrapped in foil at 350°F oven to keep moisture.
  • For single servings, use short microwave bursts, covering loosely.
  • Freeze shredded BBQ chicken in airtight containers up to two months.
  • Add BBQ sauce or chicken broth before reheating to restore moisture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!