As I stood by the grill, a wave of smoky goodness filled the air, and I couldn’t help but feel the excitement bubbling inside me. These Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders are like a cozy hug on game day or a laid-back family dinner, bringing together juicy grilled chicken thighs smothered in a velvety honey chipotle sauce. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings with its perfect blend of sweet and spicy notes but also allows for quick prep, making it a reliable go-to for any occasion. Plus, the creamy coleslaw adds a welcome crunch, making every bite an absolute delight. Are you ready to bring your cooking game up a notch and impress your loved ones with a flavor-packed bite that’s both simple and sensational? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why Make Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders?
Bold flavors await! These sliders offer a perfect blend of sweetness and heat that will leave your taste buds singing. Quick prep time means you can whip them up for game day or a casual dinner without breaking a sweat. Versatile options allow for substitutions, like using chicken breasts or experimenting with different coleslaw ingredients. Don’t forget that toasted brioche buns hold these juicy sliders together beautifully. And with a touch of creamy garlic sauce, every bite delivers an irresistible crunch that friends and family will rave about! For more game day deliciousness, try pairing with Crockpot Buffalo Chicken or Sweet Potato Fries for a complete meal.
Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Juicy protein base; pound to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Olive Oil – Grilling aid to prevent sticking; vegetable oil can be an alternative.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt is a suitable substitute.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth; freshly ground pepper is preferred.
• Honey – Sweetness and glossy glaze; maple syrup works as a great substitute.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo – Provides smoky heat; adjust for your spice preference.
• Ketchup – Adds sweetness and tang to the sauce.
For the Buns
• Brioche Slider Buns – Soft yet sturdy for toppings; whole wheat or gluten-free buns can be substituted.
• Unsalted Butter – For toasting buns; margarine may be an alternative.
For the Coleslaw
• Shredded Green Cabbage – Essential for coleslaw texture; swap for Napa cabbage if needed.
• Purple Cabbage – Adds color and crunch; can omit if not available.
• Shredded Carrots – Introduces color and sweetness; radish can replace for extra crunch.
• Mayonnaise – Key ingredient for creamy slaw; Greek yogurt can provide a lighter option.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers tang to the slaw; white vinegar can be used instead.
• Sugar – Balances flavors in coleslaw; honey can also be utilized.
For the Garlic Sauce
• Sour Cream – Adds creaminess to the sauce; plain yogurt can serve as a substitute.
• Milk – Thins the garlic sauce; use plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
• Garlic – Fresh flavor for the sauce; garlic powder may be a last-minute substitute.
These Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders not only bring incredible flavors but also offer quick prep time, perfect for any gathering. Enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders
Step 1: Prep Coleslaw
In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sugar until well combined. Add in the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and shredded carrots, tossing them together until they are evenly coated in the dressing. Cover the bowl and chill the coleslaw in the fridge while you prepare the rest of the Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders.
Step 2: Make Garlic Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir until it reaches a smooth consistency, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the garlic sauce aside; it will add a creamy touch that perfectly complements the sliders.
Step 3: Prepare Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of honey, 2 chipotle peppers in adobo (chopped), and 1/4 cup of ketchup. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes syrupy. Once ready, remove from heat and let it cool slightly to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook Chicken
While the sauce is cooling, pound the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to an even thickness. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and a nice char forms on the surface.
Step 5: Coat Chicken
Once the chicken is grilled, transfer the thighs to a large bowl and pour the prepared honey chipotle sauce over them. Toss until every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with the sweet and spicy glaze, letting the sauce cling beautifully to the meat.
Step 6: Toast Buns & Assemble
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Cut the brioche slider buns in half and place them cut-side down on the skillet. Toast until golden brown and crispy, which should take 2-3 minutes. Assemble your sliders by placing a piece of the honey chipotle chicken on the bottom half of each bun, topped with a generous scoop of coleslaw and a drizzle of garlic sauce, before placing the top bun on.
Helpful Tricks for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders
• Toast the Buns: Ensuring you toast the buns is crucial to prevent them from getting soggy from the sauce. This adds both texture and flavor!
• Adjust Spiciness: If you’re serving guests with varying spice tolerances, start with fewer chipotle peppers in the sauce and allow individuals to add more to their sliders.
• Chill the Coleslaw: Allowing the coleslaw to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and texture, making it crunchier when added to the Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders.
• Rest the Chicken: After grilling the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture, ensuring juicy bites every time.
• Batch the Sauce: Make extra honey chipotle sauce to use as a dipping option on the side. It’s a wonderful way to enhance the slider experience and add zing to fries or veggies!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the coleslaw and garlic sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully while stored in the refrigerator. Additionally, the honey chipotle sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality of your sliders, it’s best to store cooked chicken separately from the buns and sauces; this helps prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken with the sauce until warmed through, toast the buns, and assemble your sliders for a quick and satisfying meal that’s just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders
Refrigerator: Keep cooked chicken sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store chicken separately from buns and sauce to maintain texture.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken portions in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy flavorful Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders again.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Toast the brioche buns just before serving for that extra crunch!
Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your sliders with these exciting variations! Each twist brings a new flavor and texture to this beloved dish.
- Lighter Option: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner, equally delicious alternative.
- Tropical Coleslaw: Mix in diced pineapple or mango to the coleslaw for a refreshing, tropical twist that elevates the crunch.
- BBQ Flavor Boost: Brush the grilled chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce instead of honey chipotle for a smoky, tangy flavor.
- Spicy Upgrade: If you love heat, add extra chipotle peppers in adobo or a dash of cayenne to the sauce for a fiery kick that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
- Creamy Variation: Substitute mayonnaise in the slaw with avocado for a creamy, nutritious twist that pairs beautifully with the honey chipotle sauce.
- Whole Grain Goodness: Try using whole grain or seeded burger buns for added texture and nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
- Vegan Delight: Use grilled portobello mushrooms in place of the chicken, and opt for a vegan mayo alternative to create a hearty, plant-based slider.
- Garlic Butter Buns: Mix minced garlic into your butter before toasting the buns for an extra layer of savory goodness that enhances the overall taste.
Every variation has its charm, so whether you’re in the mood for BBQ or a refreshing tropical vibe, there’s a delicious slider just waiting for you to try! And while you’re at it, why not serve up some of these Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders alongside Garlic Chicken Fried Rice or some crispy Sweet Potato Fries for a well-rounded meal? Happy cooking!
What to Serve with Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders
Imagine a spread that perfectly complements the sweet and smoky flavors of your sliders, creating a feast your friends and family won’t forget!
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their subtle sweetness and crispy texture create a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the sliders. Pairing them brings warmth and heartiness to your meal.
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Fresh Garden Salad: With a light vinaigrette, this salad adds a crisp freshness that balances the richness of the sliders. Toss in seasonal veggies for an extra burst of color and flavor!
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Roasted Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn pairs beautifully with the honey chipotle sauce. It’s a playful, summery side that adds fun to any gathering.
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Zesty Coleslaw: Serve a variation of the coleslaw that’s even tangier or spicier to keep the flavors vibrant. Add citrus for a refreshing twist!
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Cucumber Tomato Salad: This refreshing salad brings a cool crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm sliders. A squeeze of lemon juice gives it a bright flavor.
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Pineapple Salsa: The juiciness and sweetness of pineapple salsa can enhance the flavor profile and add a tropical vibe, perfect for a fun, fusion twist!
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Craft Beer or Iced Tea: Pair it with a chilled craft beer or a refreshing iced tea with mint for a great drink combo that cleanses the palate between bites.
These lively options elevate your Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders, making your meal an unforgettable feast!
Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, look for chicken thighs that are fresh and pink without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. For the cabbages, select crisp heads with vibrant colors; avoid those with wilted leaves. Opt for honey that is pure and devoid of any additives, and pick chipotle peppers that are firm to ensure maximum flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders?
Very! To keep the sliders fresh, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken separate from the buns and sauce to prevent sogginess. For optimal texture, reassemble the sliders right before serving!
Can I freeze the Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders?
Definitely! For freezing, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat the chicken. Toast the buns fresh for that delightful crunch to complete the dish!
How can I troubleshoot if the chicken is dry after cooking?
If you find that your chicken is a bit dry, it can happen if it’s overcooked. To avoid this, always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. Additionally, try marinating the chicken for about 30 minutes before grilling; this infuses moisture and flavor. Finally, allowing the chicken to rest after grilling can help retain juices.
Are there any dietary considerations for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders?
Of course! If you have allergies, ensure that all ingredients are free from allergens. For gluten sensitivity, opt for gluten-free buns and check sauces for gluten-containing ingredients. For a dairy-free version, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives, like dairy-free yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth. Always double-check labels to ensure safety for dietary needs!
Sweet & Spicy Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sugar until well combined. Add in the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and shredded carrots, tossing them together until they are evenly coated in the dressing. Cover the bowl and chill the coleslaw in the fridge while you prepare the rest of the sliders.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir until it reaches a smooth consistency, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the garlic sauce aside.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of honey, 2 chipotle peppers in adobo (chopped), and 1/4 cup of ketchup. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes syrupy.
- While the sauce is cooling, pound the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to an even thickness. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once the chicken is grilled, transfer the thighs to a large bowl and pour the prepared honey chipotle sauce over them. Toss until every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with the glaze.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Cut the brioche slider buns in half and toast until golden brown and crispy. Assemble your sliders by placing a piece of chicken on each bun, topped with coleslaw and garlic sauce.
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