BBQ Turkey Sliders – A Flavorful and Easy Meal for Any Occasion
BBQ Turkey Sliders are a quick, satisfying meal packed with bold flavors. This recipe takes juicy turkey breast, slow-cooked in tangy BBQ sauce, and pairs it with crispy bacon and sautéed onions for extra depth. Whether you’re making a solo meal or doubling the recipe for leftovers, these sliders deliver on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen.
This recipe appears in our cookbook “Cooking for One – Not an Army” along with other delicious recipes. It’s made for one, but you can easily double (or triple) this recipe for company or leftovers! If you didn’t get a copy yet, our book is on Amazon right here!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
BBQ Turkey Sliders are simple to make and packed with smoky, tangy goodness. They’re perfect whether you need a quick weeknight meal, a game-day snack, or a meal-prep-friendly dish. Plus, they’re so easy to customize!
Here’s what makes these sliders so great:
- Perfectly Portioned – Made for one but easy to scale up.
- Fast & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Smoky & Savory – The combination of BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and sautéed onions gives every bite bold flavor.
- Great for Leftovers – Make extra for lunch or dinner the next day.
- Versatile – Enjoy on soft rolls, biscuits, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
No matter how you serve them, these sliders are a delicious and convenient meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients for BBQ Turkey Sliders
This recipe comes together with just a few simple ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. The BBQ sauce adds a rich glaze while the bacon and onions provide depth and texture.
Some key ingredients in this dish include:
- Turkey breast – A lean protein that soaks up the BBQ flavor.
- BBQ sauce – Adds smoky, tangy sweetness.
- Bacon – Gives the dish a crispy, savory bite.
- Onions – Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of sweetness.
- Rolls or biscuits – The perfect base for the shredded turkey filling.
With just these few ingredients, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it took hours to make—but comes together in just 30 minutes!
How to Make BBQ Turkey Sliders
Making these sliders is incredibly simple. You’ll start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then use the flavorful bacon grease to sauté the onions for extra depth. Next, the turkey is simmered in BBQ sauce and broth until tender and easy to shred.
To complete the dish, simply shred the turkey with two forks and return it to the skillet to thicken the sauce. Then, pile the flavorful, saucy turkey onto warm rolls or biscuits and serve immediately.
The result? Juicy, flavorful sliders that are perfect for any meal.
Tips & Tricks for the Best BBQ Turkey Sliders
To make these sliders even better, here are a few simple tricks:
- Use a Good BBQ Sauce – A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce works best to balance flavors.
- Shred the Turkey Well – For the juiciest texture, use two forks to pull apart the turkey.
- Let the Sauce Thicken – Simmering the turkey in the sauce for a few minutes after shredding helps intensify the flavor.
- Make It Spicy – Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne, or chipotle powder for a little kick.
- Swap the Bacon – Try turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a lighter version.
Following these tips will help ensure your BBQ Turkey Sliders turn out delicious every time!
What to Serve with BBQ Turkey Sliders
While these sliders are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right sides takes them to the next level. Here are some tasty options:
- Sweet Potato Fries – A crispy, slightly sweet contrast.
- Coleslaw – Adds a crunchy, tangy balance to the richness.
- Corn on the Cob – A perfect match for BBQ flavors.
- Baked Beans – A smoky, hearty side option.
- Pickles – Their acidity helps cut through the richness of the sliders.
No matter what you serve alongside them, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleasing meal!
Leftovers & Storage
BBQ Turkey Sliders are great for meal prep since they store and reheat well. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigeration – Store leftover turkey filling in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze shredded BBQ turkey for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
This makes them an excellent make-ahead meal for busy days!
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Skillet – For cooking the turkey and reducing the sauce.
- Tongs – Helps handle the turkey breast easily.
- Cutting Board & Knife – For slicing onions and prepping ingredients.
- Two Forks – For shredding the turkey.
With these tools, you’ll be able to make this delicious meal with ease!
Other Recipes to Try
If you love poultry, check out these Sisters Know Best favorites:
- Turkey Pot Pie – A comforting, savory way to use turkey.
- Zucchini Turkey Burgers – A healthy and delicious take on burgers.
- Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken – A hands-off meal with bold flavors.
These dishes offer even more delicious ways to enjoy poultry in your meals!
Learn More About the History of BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce has a long and flavorful history that dates back centuries. Originating from Indigenous and African cooking traditions, different regions have developed their own unique takes, from vinegar-based sauces in the Carolinas to the sweet and smoky varieties found in Kansas City. If you’re curious about where BBQ sauce comes from and how it has evolved, check out The History of BBQ Sauce.
BBQ Turkey Sliders are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. Whether you enjoy them on soft rolls, flaky biscuits, or as lettuce wraps, these sliders are sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy an easy, delicious BBQ meal!
