As the aroma of sizzling chicken wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement for my upcoming gathering. These Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders are not just any ordinary appetizer; they’re an enticing blend of sweet and spicy that will elevate your game day festivities or casual family dinner. With juicy grilled chicken thighs coated in a luscious honey chipotle sauce and paired with a vibrant, crunchy coleslaw, this recipe maximizes flavor while minimizing effort. Ready in just 35 minutes, these sliders promise to be a hit with both your family and friends, making them a fantastic go-to for any occasion. Curious to see how easily you can whip up this crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive into the details!
Why You’ll Love These Sliders
Bursting with Flavor: The sweet and spicy honey chipotle sauce perfectly complements the juicy chicken thighs, creating a irresistible taste sensation.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, these sliders are perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With their vibrant coleslaw topping, they’re visually enticing and sure to impress at any event, whether it’s a game day party or a family dinner.
Versatile Options: Easily adaptable, you can swap in different sauces or toppings, like ranch or avocado, to cater to your guests’ tastes. Try them alongside sweet potato fries for an unforgettable meal!
Effortless Cleanup: Simple to prepare and serve, this recipe keeps the kitchen mess to a minimum, making it a stress-free cooking experience.
Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Ingredients
• Keep it simple, delicious, and quick!
For the Sliders
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – The juicy base of the sliders; chicken breasts can be used but may lead to drier results.
- Olive Oil – Enhances flavor while grilling; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Black Pepper – Adds warmth; using freshly ground pepper enhances the flavor immensely.
- Honey – The sweet hero of the sauce; high-quality honey delivers the best results.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo – Provides delightful heat; adjust to suit your spice levels.
- Ketchup – Adds tang and thickness to the sauce; try homemade ketchup for a fresher twist.
- Brioche Slider Buns – Soft and sweet, perfect for holding all those delicious layers; consider whole wheat or gluten-free options if you prefer.
- Unsalted Butter – Essential for toasting the buns, giving them richness.
For the Creamy Coleslaw
- Shredded Green Cabbage, Purple Cabbage, Shredded Carrots – Fresh and crunchy elements that provide vibrant color and texture; mix any favorite slaw vegetables for variety.
- Mayonnaise – The base of the creamy coleslaw; a dairy-free alternative like vegan mayo can be used.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds necessary acidity to balance the creaminess of the coleslaw.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dressing to balance the flavors.
For the Garlic Sauce
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess to your garlic sauce.
- Milk – Adjusts the sauce consistency; any plant-based milk works well as a substitute.
- Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor; modify the amount based on your garlic preference.
These Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders are begging to be made! With a delightful mix of flavors and textures, your gathering is sure to be a hit!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders
Step 1: Make Creamy Coleslaw
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon sugar until smooth and creamy. Next, toss the mixture with shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots until everything is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1 clove of minced garlic. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. Set aside the garlic sauce, allowing it to rest at room temperature so the flavors can develop while you focus on cooking the chicken for your Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders.
Step 3: Cook Honey Chipotle Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup honey, 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and 1/4 cup ketchup. Stir frequently and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles slightly, transforming into a sticky glaze. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly, so it’s warm but not boiling when you coat the chicken.
Step 4: Grill Chicken
While the sauce is cooking, pound the boneless skinless chicken thighs to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch for uniform cooking. Season both sides with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, and grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until charred and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Coat Chicken
Once the chicken is perfectly grilled, transfer it to a large bowl while it’s still hot. Pour the warm honey chipotle sauce over the chicken and toss to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in that delightful sticky glaze. The rich flavors of the Honey Chipotle Chicken will shine through, making these sliders truly irresistible.
Step 6: Toast Buns
Meanwhile, spread unsalted butter on the cut sides of brioche slider buns. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then place the buns butter-side down in the skillet. Toast them for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy. This step prevents the buns from getting soggy once you load them with the glazed chicken and coleslaw.
Step 7: Assemble Sliders
To create your Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders, start by placing a generous portion of the glazed chicken on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun. Top the chicken with a hearty scoop of the chilled creamy coleslaw and drizzle some garlic sauce on top. Finally, gently place the top bun slightly askew, finishing off these mouthwatering sliders ready to impress your family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders are perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends! You can prepare the creamy coleslaw and garlic sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld in the refrigerator. The cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its juiciness. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken briefly in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through. Toast the brioche buns just before assembling for that delightful crunch, and you’ll have delicious sliders waiting for your guests with minimal last-minute effort!
Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Variations
Feel free to make these sliders your own with these fun and tasty variations! Each twist opens up a new world of flavor just waiting to be explored.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayo instead of regular mayonnaise for both the coleslaw and garlic sauce. This swap invites everyone to the table, regardless of dietary restrictions!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the sliders for an extra spicy dimension that gives your guests something to talk about. Don’t be afraid to turn up the heat!
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Avocado Bliss: Top the sliders with slices of creamy avocado for rich, buttery texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy coleslaw. Creamy, dreamy deliciousness!
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BBQ Twist: Swap the honey chipotle sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky and sweet alternative that still promises to satisfy. Paired with slaw, this variation is a picnic favorite.
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Southern Style: Try using buttermilk in the coleslaw instead of mayo for a tangy twist that pairs perfectly with fried chicken sliders. It’s comfort food at its finest!
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Sweet Potato Fries: Serve the sliders with crispy sweet potato fries or a side of hush puppies to amplify your meal. Perfect match for that sweet and savory flavor profile!
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Whole Wheat Buns: Substitute brioche buns with whole wheat or gluten-free buns if you’re watching your carbs while still indulging in deliciousness. Healthier can still mean tasty!
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Extra Sweet: If you’re a fan of sweetness, drizzle additional honey on top of your glazed chicken before adding the coleslaw. It’s a sweet surprise that will keep them coming back for seconds!
Taste the magic of these sliders and make them uniquely yours! If you’re feeling adventurous, consider pairing them with a delightful side. How about serving your sliders alongside Thai Coconut Chicken for an exciting flavor journey? Or try them with a refreshing Asian cabbage salad that complements the sliders beautifully!
Expert Tips for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders
• Toast Buns Properly: Always toast the brioche buns to avoid sogginess from the honey chipotle sauce; it makes all the difference in texture.
• Chicken Thickness Matters: Make sure to pound the chicken thighs to an even thickness for consistent cooking—uneven pieces may dry out.
• Adjust the Heat: If you’re wary of spice, feel free to reduce the amount of chipotle peppers in the sauce for milder honey chipotle chicken sliders that still pack flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh produce in your coleslaw and sauces; it enhances the overall quality and taste of your sliders immensely.
• Let Flavors Marinate: Give the coleslaw some time in the fridge after mixing to let the flavors meld, making it even more delicious when served.
What to Serve with Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders
Bring your gathering to life with these flavorful pairings that complement the spicy sweetness of the sliders!
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: This rich, cheesy dish pairs perfectly with the sliders, balancing the spiciness with comforting flavors.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness enhances the honey chipotle profile, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
- Asian Cabbage Salad: A refreshing, crisp counterpart, this salad brightens your plate and adds a zesty contrast to the sticky sliders.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn offers a satisfying texture and flavor harmony with the spicy chicken.
- Beer or Cider: An ice-cold beverage such as a hoppy IPA complements the heat, while a fruity cider offers a perfect sweet contrast.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a final touch of sweetness, serve these delightful cookies to round off a vibrant meal, satisfying both young and old!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders
Fridge: Store cooked Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Coleslaw Storage: Keep the creamy coleslaw in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to preserve its crunch.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the sliders, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy leftover sliders, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the wrapped sliders for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for the sliders?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal as they remain juicy and tender when cooked. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, just be aware that they can turn out drier. For a guaranteed moist result, stick with thighs!
How should I store leftover sliders?
You can store cooked Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the coleslaw fresh, place it in a separate airtight container where it will last for about 4 days. Remember to grab that delicious garlic sauce too!
Can I freeze the sliders?
Of course! If you want to freeze the sliders, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What’s the best way to reheat leftover sliders?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the sliders in aluminum foil to maintain moisture and warm them for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the sliders from drying out, providing that delightful, fresh quality!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! The recipe can be easily tailored to fit various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, simply replace mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. If you have any spice sensitivities, feel free to reduce the chipotle pepper quantity to suit your preferences. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens!
Sweet & Spicy Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon sugar until smooth. Toss with shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots and chill for at least 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 tablespoon milk, and minced garlic. Mix until smooth and creamy; set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine 1/2 cup honey, 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers, and 1/4 cup ketchup. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Pound the chicken thighs to 1/2 inch thick. Season with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Transfer hot chicken to a bowl and pour warm honey chipotle sauce over it. Toss to coat.
- Spread unsalted butter on the buns, and toast in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Assemble the sliders by placing glazed chicken on the bottom bun, topping with coleslaw and garlic sauce, and place the top bun.
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