Queso Chipotle Chicken Sliders

Queso Chipotle Chicken Sliders are spicy, creamy, cheesy little flavor bombs that bring Tex-Mex flair to your table. These mini sandwiches are loaded with shredded chicken tossed in smoky chipotle sauce and drenched in melty queso, all stacked inside soft slider buns. Whether you’re hosting game night, a backyard BBQ, or just need a fun dinner twist, these sliders are impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love Queso Chipotle Chicken Sliders

They deliver the comfort of cheesy queso, the bold heat of chipotle, and the juiciness of shredded chicken in every bite. These sliders are super satisfying without being heavy and come together easily with rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken. They’re spicy without overpowering, creamy without being soggy, and totally customizable. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping with a twist.

Expert Tips and Tricks

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick prep shortcut and deeper flavor.
  • Mix the chipotle sauce with sour cream or mayo to mellow the heat if needed.
  • Add shredded cheese inside the sliders for extra gooeyness.
  • Toast the bottom buns before assembling to prevent sogginess from the queso.
  • Broil the assembled sliders for 2–3 minutes at the end for a bubbly, golden top.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

  • Swap chicken for pulled pork, turkey, or even plant-based chicken alternatives.
  • Use spicy queso blanco or add jalapeños for more heat.
  • Add black beans or sautéed onions for extra texture and heartiness.
  • For gluten-free: Use gluten-free slider rolls and ensure your queso and chipotle sauce are certified gluten-free.
  • For dairy-free: Use vegan queso and butter alternatives.
  • For low-carb: Serve over lettuce leaves or use keto slider buns.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve these sliders warm, paired with sides like tortilla chips and guac, corn salad, or a crisp cilantro-lime slaw. They’re also great with Mexican street corn or sweet potato fries. For drinks, try pairing with margaritas, cold beer, or a citrusy mocktail to balance the heat and richness of the queso.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Store leftovers wrapped in foil or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 325ºF, covered with foil to retain moisture.
  • Microwave individual sliders in 20–30 second bursts, covering with a paper towel.
  • Avoid freezing assembled sliders (the queso can separate), but you can freeze the chipotle chicken filling separately.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use store-bought queso?
Yes! Just make sure it’s good-quality and melts well—avoid overly processed ones that get grainy.

How spicy are these sliders?
Mild to medium, depending on how much chipotle you use. You can adjust the spice level easily.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?
Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding—especially with warm, cooked chicken.

Can I prep these ahead?
Yes! Prep the filling and assemble sliders up to a day ahead. Bake just before serving.

What buns work best?
Soft slider rolls or brioche buns work best—they soak up flavor without falling apart.

Queso Chipotle Chicken Sliders

Queso Chipotle Chicken Sliders

Yield: 12 sliders
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Queso Chipotle Chicken Sliders are bold, cheesy, and smoky—perfect for game day or weeknight dinners with shredded chicken, creamy queso, and spicy chipotle.

Ingredients

  • 1 package (12-count) slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
  • 2 chipotle peppers as adobo sauce, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or mayo
  • 1 cup prepared queso dip (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or green onions (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Lightly grease or line a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with chopped chipotles, adobo sauce, and sour cream or mayo until fully coated.
  3. Warm the queso until pourable.
  4. Slice the slider rolls horizontally (keeping tops and bottoms intact) and place the bottom halves in the dish.
  5. Spoon the chipotle chicken evenly over the bottom buns.
  6. Drizzle the queso generously over the chicken, and sprinkle with shredded cheese if using.
  7. Place the top buns back on.
  8. Brush tops with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
  9. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 5 minutes until golden and melty.
  10. Garnish with cilantro or green onions, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Add pickled jalapeños or hot sauce inside for an extra kick.
  • Layer a slice of cheese beneath the chicken to catch the queso and prevent sogginess.
  • Make your own queso for the best flavor control using cheddar, cream, and green chilies.
  • Double the chipotle if you're after bold heat.
  • Use parchment paper for easy slider removal and slicing.
  • Nutrition Information:
    Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1
    Amount Per Serving: Calories: 191Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 54mgSodium: 401mgCarbohydrates: 6gFiber: 1gSugar: 2gProtein: 14g


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