Chicken Hawaiian Roll Sliders

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Introduction

Chicken Hawaiian Roll Sliders are the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors in one irresistible bite. Made with tender, shredded chicken and gooey melted cheese sandwiched between soft Hawaiian rolls, these sliders strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Their sweet rolls and savory filling make them a versatile dish that works for any occasion.


What sets these sliders apart is the buttery glaze brushed on top before baking, infused with flavorful seasonings to enhance the dish. As they bake to golden perfection, the rolls become slightly crispy on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside. The melted cheese and warm chicken filling make them utterly satisfying and perfect for sharing.


Whether you’re hosting a party, gearing up for game day, or looking for a quick and easy dinner option, Chicken Hawaiian Roll Sliders are guaranteed to please any crowd. Their simple preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors make them a go-to recipe that everyone will love!

Perfect for:

  • Game day snacks
  • Party appetizers
  • Family dinners
  • Potlucks or gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Chicken Hawaiian Roll Sliders will become a go-to favorite:

  • Simple & Delicious: Easy to assemble with everyday ingredients.
  • Sweet & Savory: The sweet rolls pair perfectly with the savory chicken and cheese.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are always a hit at parties and family meals.
  • Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 12 sliders
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein from the chicken, calcium from the cheese, and a touch of fiber from the rolls.

Ingredients

For the Sliders:

  • 12 Hawaiian rolls
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (or cooked chicken breast)
  • 6 slices provolone cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (or honey mustard for a variation)

For the Glaze:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Hawaiian Rolls: Their subtle sweetness complements the savory chicken and cheese.
  • Rotisserie Chicken: A quick and flavorful option for the filling.
  • Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Filling:

  1. Mix the Chicken:
    In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce (or your preferred sauce). Mix until the chicken is evenly coated.

Assemble the Sliders:

  1. Slice the Rolls:
    Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact. Place the bottom halves into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Layer the Ingredients:
    Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. Lay the provolone cheese slices on top of the chicken.
  3. Add the Top Layer:
    Place the top halves of the rolls over the chicken and cheese layer.

Prepare the Glaze:

  1. Make the Glaze:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and brown sugar (if using).
  2. Brush the Glaze:
    Using a pastry brush, generously brush the glaze over the tops of the rolls, ensuring they are fully coated.

Bake the Sliders:

  1. Bake Until Golden:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Slice and Serve:
    Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut along the seams of the rolls and serve warm.

How to Serve

Chicken Hawaiian Roll Sliders are perfect for:

  • Game Day: A crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to grab and enjoy.
  • Family Meals: Pair with a side salad or fries for a complete dinner.
  • Potlucks: Easy to transport and serve in the baking dish.
  • Parties: A hit at gatherings, especially when served alongside other finger foods.

Additional Tips

  • Toast the Rolls Slightly: Lightly toast the Hawaiian rolls before assembling to add a bit of crunch and prevent them from getting soggy.
  • Use Shredded Chicken: For easier assembly and better distribution of flavors, shred the chicken finely. Rotisserie chicken works great for this.
  • Add Pineapple: Incorporate small pineapple chunks or crushed pineapple for a sweet, tropical twist that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
  • Season the Chicken Well: Mix the chicken with spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a bit of cayenne pepper for an extra flavor punch.
  • Spread Sauces Generously: Use mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even ranch dressing to complement the flavor. Layer them on both sides of the rolls for moisture and taste.
  • Include Cheese: Add slices of mozzarella, provolone, or Swiss cheese to make the sliders gooey and satisfying when baked.
  • Brush with Butter Mixture: Before baking, brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter mixed with garlic, parsley, and a touch of honey for a golden, flavorful finish.
  • Bake Covered, Then Uncovered: Cover the sliders with aluminum foil for the first 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent the tops from browning too quickly. Uncover for the last few minutes for a crispy top.
  • Add Crunchy Layers: Include a layer of crispy bacon, fried onions, or even coleslaw for added texture and flavor contrast.
  • Serve Warm: These sliders are best served warm and fresh out of the oven. If making them ahead of time, reheat briefly in the oven to restore their texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

  • Buffalo Chicken Sliders: Replace the BBQ sauce with buffalo sauce for a spicy kick, and layer with crumbled blue cheese or a drizzle of ranch dressing for tanginess.
  • Hawaiian BBQ Sliders: Enhance the tropical vibe by adding pineapple slices or chunks and mixing teriyaki sauce with BBQ sauce to create a sweet and savory combination.
  • Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Sliders: Add a spicy twist by incorporating sliced jalapeños and using a blend of pepper jack and cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
  • Bacon Ranch Chicken Sliders: Include crispy bacon strips and drizzle creamy ranch dressing over the shredded chicken for a rich and satisfying variation.
  • Spinach Artichoke Chicken Sliders: Mix the shredded chicken with creamy spinach and artichoke dip to create a decadent, cheesy filling.
  • Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Sliders: Spread a layer of pesto sauce on the rolls, then add shredded chicken, fresh mozzarella slices, and sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh Italian-inspired taste.
  • Asian-Style Chicken Sliders: Toss the shredded chicken in hoisin sauce or sesame ginger glaze, and top with crunchy coleslaw and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired flair.
  • Spicy Sriracha Honey Chicken Sliders: Mix chicken with a blend of sriracha and honey to create a perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors.
  • Mexican Chicken Sliders: Season the chicken with taco seasoning, and top with guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheese for a fiesta-inspired slider.
  • Caprese Chicken Sliders: Layer the sliders with fresh basil leaves, juicy tomato slices, and mozzarella cheese, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sophisticated and refreshing twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Freezing: Wrap the unbaked sliders tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator, add the glaze, and bake as directed.

Special Equipment

  • Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works best for holding all the sliders.
  • Pastry Brush: To easily apply the buttery glaze.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of roll?
    Yes, you can use dinner rolls, brioche buns, or even slider-sized pretzel buns.
  2. Can I use leftover chicken?
    Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
  3. Can I make these sliders gluten-free?
    Yes, substitute the Hawaiian rolls with gluten-free slider buns.
  4. What’s the best way to reheat the sliders?
    Reheat them in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispy, buttery tops.

Conclusion

Chicken Hawaiian Roll Sliders are a mouthwatering blend of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors, all packed into one delightful bite-sized sandwich. Made with soft Hawaiian rolls, juicy shredded chicken, melty cheese, and a glaze of buttery sweetness, these sliders bring a perfect balance of flavors that will satisfy any crowd. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

These sliders are incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights, parties, or game day gatherings. Simply layer shredded chicken, your favorite cheese, and optional extras like pineapple or bacon inside the soft rolls, then brush them with a delicious buttery glaze. A quick bake in the oven transforms them into golden, gooey, and irresistible sandwiches that are as fun to eat as they are tasty.

One of the best features of Chicken Hawaiian Roll Sliders is their versatility. You can customize the recipe with barbecue sauce, spicy mayo, or teriyaki glaze to suit your preferences. Pair them with a crisp salad, chips, or your favorite dipping sauces, and you’ve got a meal that’s as easy to love as it is to make. Perfect for any occasion, these sliders are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!

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