Chandler subsequently joined Bolton Wanderers in October 1981, becoming a first-team regular as the "Trotters" suffered relegation from the Second Division during his second season with the club. He thrived under manager John McGovern, who told Chandler that he was "the best player at the club". Between 1983 and 1985 Chandler scored 37 league goals, and finished as the club's second highest scorer in his final two seasons, behind Tony Caldwell. His form led Derby County to pay £38,000 to sign him in 1985 but, after two unsettled years at the Baseball Ground and a brief loan spell with Mansfield Town, he was persuaded to return to Bolton by manager Phil Neal for £20,000.