Chicken Sliders
Indulge in the delightful world of chicken sliders, where tender chicken meets soft, pillowy buns. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy family dinner. With a simple preparation and a burst of flavors, these sliders will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 slider buns
– Your choice of toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, etc.)
– ½ cup mayonnaise or sauce of choice
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 12 sliders. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slider) contains approximately:
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is calculated for one slider.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade and let them sit for 10 minutes.
4. Place the chicken on the grill or pan, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes.
7. Slice the chicken into smaller pieces to fit the slider buns.
8. Toast the slider buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster.
9. Assemble the sliders by placing chicken on the bun, adding your choice of toppings.
10. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to use gluten-free buns for a gluten-free version or swap mayonnaise for a vegan alternative like avocado spread.
Serving and Pairings
These chicken sliders pair perfectly with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad. Consider serving with a tangy coleslaw for a crunchy complement.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip marinating for added flavor.
– Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Toast buns lightly to enhance texture.
– Keep a close eye on cooking times to avoid burning.
– Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
– Experiment with different sauces for variety.
– Serve with small bowls of toppings for a fun slider bar.
– Consider using a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for sliders?
Yes, turkey can be used as a substitute, but adjust cooking times as turkey may cook faster.
What toppings work best for chicken sliders?
Popular toppings include lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, and various sauces like BBQ or ranch.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken in advance and assemble the sliders just before serving.
Are chicken sliders healthy?
They can be a healthy option, especially if made with lean chicken and whole-grain buns. Adjust toppings for a healthier choice.
How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?
Toast the buns before assembly and serve sauces on the side to keep them crisp.
Conclusion
Chicken sliders are a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether for a casual gathering or a festive celebration, these sliders will add flavor and fun to your table. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and toppings to make them your own!
Chicken Sliders
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns
- Your choice of toppings lettuce, tomato, pickles, etc.
- ½ cup mayonnaise or sauce of choice
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or stovetop pan over medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade and let them sit for 10 minutes.
- Place the chicken on the grill or pan, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken into smaller pieces to fit the slider buns.
- Toast the slider buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster.
- Assemble the sliders by placing chicken on the bun, adding your choice of toppings.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
