Blackened Chicken Sliders: A Bar Chick’s Delight – Flavor Bombs in Every Bite!
Craving a bold and flavorful appetizer or a satisfying snack that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress? Look no further! These Blackened Chicken Sliders are a bar-food inspired masterpiece, perfect for game day, parties, or even a fun weeknight dinner. This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken bursting with smoky, spicy flavor, nestled in soft slider buns with a creamy, cool sauce that perfectly balances the heat. Forget those boring chicken sandwiches – these sliders are about to become your new go-to!
## Why These Blackened Chicken Sliders Are a Must-Try
* **Incredible Flavor:** The blackened seasoning creates a delicious crust with a smoky, spicy kick. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite the impressive taste, these sliders are surprisingly simple to prepare. The chicken cooks quickly, and the sauce comes together in minutes.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** Sliders are the ultimate party food! They’re bite-sized, easy to handle, and always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Customizable:** This recipe is a great base to build upon. Add your favorite toppings, switch up the sauce, or adjust the spice level to your liking.
* **Impressive Presentation:** These sliders look as good as they taste! The colorful toppings and perfectly toasted buns make them a feast for the eyes.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
**For the Blackened Chicken:**
* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into slider-sized pieces (about 2-3 inches)
* 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade – recipe below)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
**For the Creamy Sauce:**
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1 teaspoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Sliders:**
* 12 slider buns
* Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, avocado, pickles, coleslaw
**Homemade Blackened Seasoning (Optional):**
* 1 tablespoon paprika
* 1 tablespoon garlic powder
* 1 tablespoon onion powder
* 1 tablespoon dried oregano
* 1 tablespoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
* 1 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
## Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Prepare the Blackened Seasoning (If Making Homemade):**
In a small bowl, combine all the blackened seasoning ingredients. Mix well and set aside. Store any leftover seasoning in an airtight container.
**2. Prepare the Chicken:**
* Cut the chicken breasts into smaller pieces, approximately 2-3 inches in size. This ensures even cooking and fits perfectly on the slider buns. You can also use chicken tenders if you prefer.
* Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear and allowing the blackened seasoning to adhere properly.
* In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the blackened seasoning, making sure each piece is evenly coated. The more seasoning, the more flavor!
**3. Cook the Chicken:**
* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough that the oil shimmers slightly.
* Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces in the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Work in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking temperature. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steamed, not blackened, chicken.
* Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is cooked through and has a nicely blackened crust. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
* Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside to rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
**4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:**
* In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, sriracha, garlic powder, and onion powder.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Add more sriracha if you want a spicier sauce.
* Refrigerate the sauce until ready to use. This allows the flavors to meld together.
**5. Assemble the Sliders:**
* Lightly toast the slider buns. This adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting soggy.
* Spread a generous amount of the creamy sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun.
* Place a piece of blackened chicken on top of the sauce.
* Add your desired toppings, such as shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, avocado, pickles, or coleslaw.
* Top with the other half of the slider bun.
**6. Serve and Enjoy!**
Serve the blackened chicken sliders immediately. They’re best enjoyed warm, with the chicken juicy and the sauce creamy. These sliders are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Garnish with some extra sriracha or a sprinkle of blackened seasoning for an extra kick.
## Tips for Perfect Blackened Chicken Sliders
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Pat the Chicken Dry:** Before seasoning the chicken, pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning adhere better and allow the chicken to develop a nice crust.
* **Use a Hot Pan:** Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. This will help create that signature blackened crust.
* **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
* **Let the Chicken Rest:** After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before assembling the sliders. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
* **Toast the Buns:** Toasting the slider buns adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting soggy.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning and the amount of sriracha in the creamy sauce to your liking.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Feel free to experiment with different toppings to create your own unique slider combinations.
## Variations and Substitutions
* **Spicier Sliders:** Add more cayenne pepper to the blackened seasoning or more sriracha to the creamy sauce. You can also use a spicier hot sauce in the sauce.
* **Milder Sliders:** Reduce or eliminate the cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning and reduce the amount of sriracha in the creamy sauce. You can also use a milder hot sauce or omit it altogether.
* **Different Protein:** Use shrimp, fish, or tofu instead of chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Different Buns:** Use Hawaiian rolls, pretzel rolls, or brioche buns instead of slider buns. You can even use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
* **Different Sauce:** Try using a different sauce, such as a chipotle mayo, a honey mustard sauce, or a cilantro-lime crema.
* **Add Cheese:** Add a slice of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone, to the sliders. Melt the cheese under the broiler for a few seconds.
* **Make it a Meal:** Serve the sliders with a side of fries, onion rings, or coleslaw.
## Serving Suggestions
* **Game Day:** These sliders are the perfect game day snack. Serve them with your favorite game day appetizers, such as wings, nachos, and dips.
* **Parties:** These sliders are a great addition to any party. They’re easy to make, easy to eat, and always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Weeknight Dinner:** These sliders are a quick and easy weeknight dinner option. Serve them with a side salad or some roasted vegetables.
* **Appetizer:** These sliders make a delicious appetizer. Serve them before a main course or as part of a larger appetizer spread.
* **Potlucks:** Bring these sliders to your next potluck. They’re sure to be a hit!
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the sliders just before serving.
**Q: How long will the sliders last in the refrigerator?**
A: The assembled sliders are best eaten immediately. However, the leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
**Q: Can I freeze the blackened chicken?**
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked blackened chicken. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
**Q: What if I don’t have blackened seasoning?**
A: You can use a Cajun seasoning blend as a substitute. Alternatively, you can make your own blackened seasoning using the recipe provided above.
**Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?**
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay moister than chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
**Q: How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?**
A: To prevent the sliders from getting soggy, toast the buns and don’t assemble them until just before serving. Also, avoid adding too much sauce.
## Blackened Chicken Slider Recipe
This recipe gives you the best results for some incredibly tasting sliders. You can tailor it to your own specifications and liking by adjusting the ingredients.
**Yields:** 12 sliders
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into slider-sized pieces
* 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1 teaspoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 12 slider buns
* Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, red onion, avocado, pickles, coleslaw
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Blackened Seasoning (If Making Homemade):** In a small bowl, combine all the blackened seasoning ingredients. Mix well and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** Cut the chicken breasts into slider-sized pieces. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Toss the chicken pieces with the blackened seasoning, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
3. **Cook the Chicken:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces in the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and has a blackened crust. Remove from the pan and set aside to rest.
4. **Prepare the Creamy Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, sriracha, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use.
5. **Assemble the Sliders:** Lightly toast the slider buns. Spread a generous amount of the creamy sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a piece of blackened chicken on top of the sauce. Add your desired toppings. Top with the other half of the bun.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the blackened chicken sliders immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Blackened Chicken Sliders! These are a perfect combination of spice, creaminess, and satisfying protein, making them a guaranteed hit at your next gathering. Whether it’s a party, game night, or a simple weeknight dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the toppings and sauces to make them your own. Happy cooking!