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chicken sliders recipe

chicken sliders recipe

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This easy chicken sliders recipe is a family-favorite, go-to meal for busy weeknights, game nights, or casual gatherings. These 'magic mini sandwiches' feature tender, seasoned chicken tossed in a flavorful BBQ sauce, topped with melted cheese, and served on soft slider buns, often Hawaiian rolls, for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that appeals to all ages. It's praised for its simplicity, crowd-pleasing taste, and versatility.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp Olive oil
1 tsp Onion powder
1 tsp Garlic powder
0.5 tsp Smoked paprika
0.5 tsp Salt
0.25 tsp Black pepper
0.5 cup BBQ sauce
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Honey
12 Slider buns
12 slices Cheddar cheese
2 tbsp Butter, melted
1 tsp Sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and cut into 1-inch cubes
  2. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss cubed chicken with olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coating
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside
  4. Shred or Cube: Once slightly cooled, shred chicken using two forks or keep in small cubes
  5. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, and honey. Stir over medium heat until simmering gently
  6. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss until thoroughly coated. Remove from heat
  7. Prepare the Buns: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice slider buns horizontally, keeping halves connected. Place the bottom half in a 9×13 inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet
  8. Assemble the Sliders: Evenly spread the saucy chicken mixture over the bottom half of the buns
  9. Add Cheese: Lay cheddar cheese slices over the chicken mixture
  10. Top the Sliders: Carefully place the top half of the buns over the cheese layer
  11. Butter and Garnish: Melt butter and brush generously over the tops of the buns. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if using
  12. Bake to Perfection: Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly, and buns are golden brow
  13. Serve Warm: Let sliders cool for a minute or two before slicing apart and serving

Notes

Don't overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy.

Keep the block of slider buns connected when slicing for easier assembly.

Brushing the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkling with sesame seeds adds richness and a golden crust.

Covering the sliders with foil initially helps cheese melt perfectly without over-browning the buns.

For convenience, cook the chicken and sauce mixture up to a day in advance and store in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.