There’s nothing like biting into a slider that perfectly encapsulates the essence of comfort food, and these Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders are just that! Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy fried chicken glazed with a mouthwatering blend of sweet honey and spicy goodness, nestled between soft Hawaiian rolls. This delightful combination not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a party-worthy flair to any gathering.
Whether it’s game day or a cozy night in, these sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, offering a beautifully balanced flavor profile that everyone will adore. With their crunchy exterior and juicy center, they’re sure to elevate your culinary repertoire and make fast food feel like a thing of the past. Join me in whipping up these irresistible sliders that are as easy to make as they are delicious!
Why Are Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders Amazing?
Irresistibly juicy and crunchy, these sliders deliver a flavor explosion that combines sweet and spicy in every bite.
Effortless preparation means even novice cooks can impress guests without breaking a sweat.
Versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or an exciting game day.
Memorable indeed, the combination of crispy fried chicken and creamy garlic mayo makes these sliders a standout dish!
Perfect for meal prep, you can even serve them with sides like fresh slaw or chips. Try these Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders for a twist on your next gathering!
Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders Ingredients
• Prepare to indulge in the flavors!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Cut into slider-size pieces to ensure juicy, satisfying bites.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the meat; mix regular milk with vinegar for a homemade alternative.
- Hot Sauce – Adds that kick in the marinade; choose your favorite brand for personalized heat.
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – A must for crispy texture; consider gluten-free flour for a variation.
- Cornstarch – Enhances crispiness in the batter; can be skipped if you’re in a pinch.
- Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper – Season generously for flavorful depth; adjust for spice preference.
- Oil for Frying – Essential for that golden, crispy outside; vegetable or canola oil works perfectly.
For the Glaze
- Honey – Adds the sweet element to balance the spiciness; no substitutions necessary for the best flavor.
- Butter – For richness; opt for unsalted for better control over the dish’s saltiness.
- Cayenne Pepper, Smoked Paprika – Boost the heat and flavor profile; tweak according to your spice threshold.
For Assembly
- Hawaiian Rolls – These soft, sweet buns are the perfect match for the sliders; brioche also makes a great substitute.
- Pickle Chips – Provides crunch and tanginess to cut through the sweetness; any pickle variety works well.
- Mayo with Garlic Powder – The creamy base that holds everything together; swap in your favorite aioli if preferred.
How to Make Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders
- Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-coated, and let them marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will create a deliciously crispy coating for the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk mixture and dredge each piece in the flour coating, ensuring they are evenly covered. This will provide the perfect crunch when fried.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Use a wire rack to drain the fried chicken, keeping it crispy.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the honey, melted butter, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth and well-combined. This glaze brings all the sweet and spicy flavors together.
- Assemble the Sliders: Toast the Hawaiian rolls lightly. Spread a layer of garlic mayo on each roll, add a piece of fried chicken, drizzle generously with the honey glaze, and top with pickle slices for that perfect crunch.
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh slaw for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these sliders to match your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Chicken Alternatives: Swap chicken for turkey or crispy tofu to cater to different dietary preferences.
- Gluten-Free Options: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch to create a deliciously crispy coating that everyone can enjoy.
- Heat Adjustment: Add extra cayenne pepper for those who love a fiery kick, or reduce the hot sauce for a milder flavor!
- Sweet Changes: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave for a unique sweetness that still complements the savory elements.
- Bun Substitutions: Instead of Hawaiian rolls, use whole grain or lettuce wraps for a healthier option.
- Veggie Crunch: Add avocado slices or jalapeños to enhance the texture and offer an exciting flavor twist.
- Flavor Infusion: Mix in a dash of ranch seasoning to the mayo for a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze.
- Cheesy Goodness: Top with a slice of your favorite cheese before serving, letting it melt slightly for added richness and flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders
Fridge: Keep leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. However, note that the bread may become slightly soggy.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat from frozen in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. The honey butter fried chicken sliders will regain some of their original crispness.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving sliders out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders?
Enhance your slider experience with delightful pairings that will make your meal unforgettable.
- Crispy Coleslaw: This refreshing slaw adds crunch and tang, balancing the sweetness of the sliders perfectly. It’s a classic pairing that cuts through the richness.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their subtle sweetness enhances the spicy notes of the sliders while offering a welcoming contrast in texture. Bake or fry them for a deliciously crispy finish.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and flavorful, these veggies complement the sliders’ heat and provide a nutritious touch to your meal. The garlic adds an irresistible aroma!
- Spicy Pickle Chips: Add a zingy crunch with spicy pickles; their brininess elevates the sliders’ flavor and keeps each bite exciting. Pair them alongside for a delightful contrast.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this cool salad helps counter the heat of the sliders and offers a bright, herbaceous flavor with every refreshing bite.
- Homemade Ranch Dip: Serve with ranch dip for an extra creamy element that works wonderfully with chicken and enhances the overall flavor profile. It’s an invitation for dipping!
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: A chilled glass of sweet tea or tangy lemonade will beautifully complement the spicy sweetness of the sliders, providing a refreshing sip between bites.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with these soft, warm cookies that leave you with a comforting finish after the savory sliders. A perfect way to balance flavors!
Expert Tips for Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders
- Temperature Check: Ensure your frying oil is at 350°F before adding chicken; this prevents greasiness and ensures a crispy coating.
- Marination Magic: Don’t skip the marinating step; it keeps the chicken juicy and enhances flavor significantly.
- Coating Consistency: Make sure to fully coat the chicken in the flour mixture to achieve that desired crunch in your honey butter fried chicken sliders.
- Drain Properly: Always place fried chicken on a wire rack to maintain crispiness—paper towels trap moisture and can make them soggy.
- Adjust the Heat: Tailor the hot sauce in the glaze to your taste—more for spice lovers, less for a milder experience that still packs a punch.
Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for ones that are plump and have a fresh color with no dark spots. Aim to pick organic or free-range chicken if possible, as they tend to be more flavorful. I always recommend avoiding chicken that seems slimy or has an unpleasant odor.
How should I store the leftover Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders?
Very simply! Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To help maintain the bread’s softness, you can separate the components (chicken, glaze, and rolls) if you prefer; this way, each part stays fresh a little longer. However, be mindful that the bread may lose some of its crispness upon reheating.
Can I freeze Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, first allow the sliders to cool to room temperature. Then, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s sealed well to prevent air exposure. Place the wrapped sliders in a freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. This way, you have an easy meal ready to go at any time!
What should I do if my fried chicken isn’t crispy?
If you find your fried chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, it could be due to a few factors. First, ensure your oil is hot enough (350°F) before adding the chicken; if the oil is too cool, the coating will absorb oil and become soggy. Also, be sure to drain the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels—this helps maintain that delightful crunch by allowing airflow around the chicken.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re making these sliders for a crowd, it’s a good idea to ask about food allergies. The main allergens in this recipe are chicken, wheat (from the flour), and dairy (from the butter and buttermilk). For gluten-free options, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and for a dairy-free version, try using plant-based milk for the marinade and replace the butter with a non-dairy alternative. Always be sure to read labels to ensure your ingredients meet specific dietary needs.
Can I adjust the heat level of the honey glaze?
Very much so! To customize the spice level, simply adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper in the glaze. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount, or consider using a milder hot sauce. For those who like it hot, you can add more cayenne or even some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Irresistibly Juicy Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sliders Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- deep skillet
- Wire rack
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds Chicken Breasts Cut into slider-size pieces
- 2 cups Buttermilk Mix regular milk with vinegar for a homemade alternative
- 1/2 cup Hot Sauce Choose your favorite brand for personalized heat
For the Coating
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Consider gluten-free flour for variation
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch Can be skipped if you're in a pinch
- 1 tablespoon Paprika Adjust for spice preference
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 cups Oil for Frying Vegetable or canola oil works perfectly
For the Glaze
- 1/2 cup Honey
- 1/4 cup Butter Opt for unsalted for control over saltiness
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust according to spice threshold
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Enhances flavor profile
For Assembly
- 12 pieces Hawaiian Rolls Brioche makes a great substitute
- 1 cup Pickle Chips Any variety works well
- 1/2 cup Mayo with Garlic Powder Swap in aioli if preferred
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they're well-coated, and let them marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk mixture and dredge each piece in the flour coating.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- In a bowl, whisk together the honey, melted butter, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth.
- Toast the Hawaiian rolls lightly, spread garlic mayo on each roll, add a piece of fried chicken, drizzle with honey glaze, and top with pickle slices.
Notes
Nutrition
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