Grilled Cherry BBQ Chicken Sliders

These grilled cherry BBQ chicken sliders are about to become your new go-to for summer cookouts and busy weeknights. The sweet, tangy cherry barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with juicy, smoky chicken, all piled onto soft slider buns. They come together quickly, use simple ingredients, and are always a hit with kids and adults alike.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can grill the chicken ahead of time, make the sauce in advance, and assemble the sliders in minutes. They're perfect for feeding a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the cherry BBQ sauce is so good you'll want to put it on everything.

Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue, a game day spread, or just need an easy dinner that feels special, these sliders deliver. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and smoky flavor: The homemade cherry barbecue sauce adds a unique sweetness that complements the smoky grilled chicken perfectly.
• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, these sliders are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Kid-friendly: The sweet sauce and small size make them a hit with even picky eaters.
• Make-ahead friendly: Grill the chicken and make the sauce up to 2 days in advance for even faster assembly.
• Perfect for parties: Sliders are easy to serve and eat, making them ideal for summer parties, game days, or potlucks.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable chicken thighs and pantry staples for the sauce.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the heat level or add your favorite toppings to make them your own.

Ingredients

For the Cherry BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup cherry preserves or jam (use good quality)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Chicken Sliders

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6 thighs)
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 slider buns (or soft dinner rolls)
• 1/2 cup coleslaw mix (optional, for crunch)
• 1/4 cup pickled red onions (optional)
• Butter for toasting buns

Optional Substitutions

• Chicken thighs: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Reduce grilling time to 6-8 minutes per side and let rest before slicing.
• Cherry preserves: Use raspberry, strawberry, or apricot preserves for a different flavor profile.
• Ketchup: Replace with tomato sauce plus 1 tablespoon of honey for a less processed option.
• Apple cider vinegar: White wine vinegar or lemon juice work in a pinch.
• Brown sugar: Coconut sugar or maple syrup for a refined sugar-free version.
• Smoked paprika: Regular paprika plus a drop of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.
• Slider buns: Use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or brioche buns for extra richness.
• Coleslaw mix: Shredded cabbage or a simple arugula salad for crunch.

Instructions

1. Make the cherry BBQ sauce: In a small saucepan, combine cherry preserves, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne if using. Whisk together and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are ashed over and glowing. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Brush lightly with olive oil.
4. Grill the chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush each thigh with some of the cherry BBQ sauce. Flip and brush the other side. The sugar in the sauce can burn quickly, so watch carefully.
5. Rest and slice: Transfer the grilled chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then slice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss with a little more cherry BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
6. Toast the buns: While the chicken rests, split the slider buns and butter the cut sides. Place them on the grill, cut side down, for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and toasted.
7. Assemble the sliders: On each bottom bun, place a generous portion of the sliced chicken. Top with a spoonful of coleslaw mix and a few pickled red onions if desired. Add the top bun and secure with a toothpick if serving as a platter.
8. Serve warm: Arrange the sliders on a platter with extra cherry BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately!

Pro Tips

• Don't skip the rest time: Letting the chicken rest after grilling keeps it juicy and prevents the juices from running out when you slice it.
• Watch the sugar: Cherry BBQ sauce is high in sugar and can burn easily on the grill. Brush it on only during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Make ahead sauce: The cherry BBQ sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. It also makes a great gift!
• Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken every time, use an instant-read thermometer. Chicken thighs should reach 165°F at the thickest part.
• Toast buns on the grill: Toasting adds texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy from the sauce.
• Double the recipe: These sliders disappear fast. For a crowd, easily double everything.
• Keep warm for serving: If serving at a party, keep the sliced chicken in a slow cooker on warm with a little extra sauce to stay moist.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Cherry BBQ Sliders: Add 1-2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the cherry BBQ sauce for a smoky heat.
• Pulled Chicken Sliders: After grilling, shred the chicken and toss with extra sauce for a pulled chicken slider version.
• Bacon Cherry BBQ Sliders: Add crispy bacon strips to each slider for extra smokiness and crunch.
• Hawaiian Style: Use Hawaiian sweet rolls for the buns and add grilled pineapple slices on top.
• Cheesy Sliders: Add a slice of provolone or cheddar cheese to each slider during the last minute of grilling (cover the grill to melt).
• Veggie Version: Swap chicken for thick slices of portobello mushrooms, marinated in a little soy sauce and olive oil before grilling.

Storage and Reheating

Fridge

Store leftover sliced chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the buns at room temperature to avoid sogginess.

Freezer

Place the cooled sliced chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out excess air, label, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The sauce also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra sauce until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes. You can also microwave in 30-second bursts, but the skillet method keeps the texture better. Toast buns fresh before assembling.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce instead? Yes, but the cherry flavor will be less pronounced. Mix 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce with 1/4 cup cherry preserves for a quick alternative.

Can I make these sliders in the oven? Absolutely! Bake the chicken thighs at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, brushing with sauce in the last 5 minutes. Then broil for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

What if I can't find cherry preserves? Use any fruit preserves you have on hand. Raspberry, strawberry, or even apricot work beautifully. You can also use frozen cherries; just simmer them with a little sugar until thickened.

How do I prevent the sauce from burning on the grill? Brush the sauce on only during the last 2 minutes of grilling, and keep the heat at medium. If you see flare-ups, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but chicken breasts are leaner and can dry out quickly. Pound them to even thickness, grill for 6-8 minutes per side, and check temperature often.

What toppings go well with these sliders? Coleslaw, pickled red onions, fresh arugula, sliced avocado, or crispy bacon are all excellent choices.

Can I make these sliders gluten-free? Use gluten-free slider buns and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce and other condiments are gluten-free.

How do I serve these for a party? Arrange the assembled sliders on a large platter with toothpicks and extra sauce on the side. They're great for buffets and potlucks.