Honey Mustard BBQ Sliders: Sweet, Tangy, and Irresistible

Written by Sarah Gardner

Sliders are always a hit, but when you add a sweet and tangy honey mustard BBQ sauce, they become downright addictive. These Honey Mustard BBQ Sliders feature juicy shredded chicken (or pulled pork if you're feeling adventurous) smothered in a homemade honey mustard BBQ sauce, stacked on soft slider buns, and topped with melty cheese and crispy fried onions for a little crunch. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing—or not.

Honey Mustard BBQ Sliders

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 12 Sliders

Equipment

  • Baking Dish (9x13 works well)
  • Small saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Basting brush

Ingredients
  

For the Sliders

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie works great or pulled pork
  • 12 slider buns Hawaiian rolls recommended
  • 6 slices of sharp cheddar or gouda cheese
  • ½ cup crispy fried onions optional but recommended
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp poppy seeds for topping

For the Honey Mustard BBQ Sauce

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce use a smoky or tangy one
  • ¼ cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

Make the Honey Mustard BBQ Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Set aside.

Prep the Sliders

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slice the slider buns in half horizontally (keeping them connected makes assembly easier).
  3. Place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.

Assemble the Sliders

  1. Mix the shredded chicken (or pulled pork) with the honey mustard BBQ sauce.
  2. Evenly distribute the meat mixture over the bottom buns.
  3. Layer with cheese slices and crispy fried onions.
  4. Place the top buns back on.

Brush and Bake

  1. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and brush over the tops of the buns.
  2. Sprinkle with poppy seeds for a nice touch.
  3. Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes.
  4. Remove foil and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Let the sliders cool for a minute, then slice and serve warm.

Pairings

  • Side: Serve with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or pickles.
  • Drink: Pair with a crisp hard cider, lemonade, or a smoky bourbon cocktail.
  • Dipping Sauce: Extra honey mustard on the side for dunking never hurts!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different meat?

Yes! Pulled pork is a fantastic alternative. You can also use shredded turkey or even jackfruit for a vegetarian option.

2. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or pepper jack work well. You want something that melts nicely but still has a bold flavor.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. You may need an extra 5 minutes in the oven.

4. Can I use store-bought honey mustard?

Sure, but the homemade version adds a deeper, smokier flavor that makes a difference.

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