Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Recipe Guide
Why make this recipe
Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders are more than just a meal; they’re a culinary experience that combines delightful textures and flavors in one bite-sized package. These sliders are perfect for any occasion, from game days to casual gatherings, or simply as a fun family dinner. The crispy chicken pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both young and old alike. The versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings, making each slider uniquely yours!
How to make Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into slider-sized portions (about 2-3 inches square)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 slider buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese, quartered (or 16 small squares)
- Lettuce leaves, for topping (optional)
- Sliced tomatoes, for topping (optional)
- Pickle chips, for topping (optional)
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken Pieces: Cut chicken breasts into slider-sized portions (2-3 inches square, 1/2 inch thick). Butterfly thick breasts for thinner pieces.
- Set up the Breading Station: In three shallow dishes, prepare:
- Dish 1: Flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Dish 2: Beaten eggs.
- Dish 3: Panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Rest the Breaded Chicken: Let the breaded chicken rest for 10-15 minutes on a plate or baking sheet.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil (about 1/4 inch deep) over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a breadcrumb sizzles and turns golden brown.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place chicken in hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove and Drain: Remove chicken with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Combine the Ingredients (Honey Mustard Sauce): In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Adjust to Taste (Honey Mustard Sauce): Adjust seasonings as needed. Add more honey for sweetness or apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
- Chill (Optional): Refrigerate the honey mustard sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Buns: Lightly toast slider buns if desired.
- Spread the Sauce: Spread honey mustard sauce on both halves of each bun.
- Add the Chicken: Place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Place a quarter of a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Add lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickle chips.
- Top with the Bun: Place the top half of the slider bun on top of the toppings.
- Serve Immediately: Serve while the chicken is warm and crispy.
How to serve Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders
These sliders are best enjoyed warm and fresh, ideally served in a casual setting where everyone can grab their own. Pair them with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For extra fun, set up a slider bar where guests can add their favorite toppings and sauces!
How to store Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders
If you have any leftovers, store the components separately to maintain their textures. Keep the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The honey mustard sauce can be stored in a sealed jar for about a week. Reheat the chicken in an oven to preserve its crispiness before assembling the sliders again.
Tips to make Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders
- Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk or yogurt for a few hours to achieve extra tenderness and flavor.
- Customize Breading: Feel free to customize the breading by adding grated Parmesan cheese or herbs to the panko breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- Experiment with Sauces: If you want to spice it up, consider adding hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce for an extra kick.
Variation
For a healthier twist, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. Simply bread the chicken as directed and place on a lined baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and cooked through.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will provide a richer flavor and juicier texture.
2. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The honey mustard sauce can be made a day ahead for added convenience. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator.
3. What other toppings can I add?
Consider adding avocado slices, sautéed bell peppers, or even jalapeños for a spicy twist. The sky’s the limit!
Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders
Ingredients
Chicken Preparation
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into slider-sized portions (about 2-3 inches square)
Breading
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) For a little kick
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
Honey Mustard Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sliders Assembly
- 12 pieces slider buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese, quartered Or 16 small squares
- Lettuce leaves, for topping Optional
- Sliced tomatoes, for topping Optional
- Pickle chips, for topping Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut chicken breasts into slider-sized portions (2-3 inches square, 1/2 inch thick). Butterfly thick breasts for thinner pieces.
- Set up the Breading Station: In three shallow dishes, prepare Dish 1 with flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper; Dish 2 with beaten eggs; Dish 3 with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Let the breaded chicken rest for 10-15 minutes on a plate or baking sheet.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil (about 1/4 inch deep) over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a breadcrumb sizzles and turns golden brown.
- Carefully place chicken in hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Honey Mustard Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Adjust seasonings as needed. Add more honey for sweetness or apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
- Chill the honey mustard sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld (optional).
Assembly
- Lightly toast slider buns if desired.
- Spread honey mustard sauce on both halves of each bun.
- Place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
- Place a quarter of a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
- Add lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickle chips as desired.
- Place the top half of the slider bun on top of the toppings.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and crispy.
