Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

Savor the delightful combination of Hot Honey Chicken Sliders that brings together crispy chicken and sweet hot honey in a perfectly bite-sized package. These sliders are not only great for game day but also perfect for casual gatherings or a family dinner. Their unique blend of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of savory fried chicken and spicy-sweet hot honey creates a taste sensation that pleases every palate.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these sliders even on a busy weeknight.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers, main courses, or party snacks—these sliders fit any occasion!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to modify the toppings and spices to suit your taste. Add more heat or even different cheeses!
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Perfectly crispy and juicy, these sliders deliver that warm comfort we all crave in our meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Meat thermometer
• Paper towels
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for frying multiple chicken thighs at once, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing your chicken seasoning and breading station efficiently.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F for optimal safety and juiciness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

For Breading

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For Frying

• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For Assembly

• 6 slider buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup coleslaw (optional)
• Fresh pickles (for garnish)

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How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

Set up a breading station with three bowls:
1. One with flour.
2. The second with beaten egg.
3. The third with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken thigh in flour, shaking off any excess.
Next, dip it in the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken thighs. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Top each slider bun with a piece of fried chicken, a slice of cheddar cheese, a drizzle of hot honey, and some coleslaw if desired. Finish with pickles and place the top of the bun on.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve immediately. Enjoy these delicious hot honey chicken sliders at your next gathering!

How to Serve Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

Serving hot honey chicken sliders is an enjoyable experience that brings people together. These sliders can be customized in various ways to suit different tastes and occasions.

Classic Style

• Pickles: Add a few slices of fresh pickles for a tangy crunch that complements the sweetness of the hot honey.
• Coleslaw: A scoop of coleslaw on top provides freshness and texture, balancing the flavors beautifully.

Game Day Favorites

• Buffalo Sauce: For those who love heat, drizzle some buffalo sauce over the chicken before adding the cheese.
• BBQ Sauce: A splash of your favorite BBQ sauce can enhance the flavor and add a smoky touch.

Gourmet Touch

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide richness and are a healthier addition to your slider.
• Sriracha: For an extra kick, add a few drops of sriracha on top of the hot honey.

Sweet Pairings

• Fruit Chutney: A spoonful of fruit chutney can elevate your sliders with a sweet and spicy twist.
• Honey Butter: Spread some honey butter on the buns for added sweetness and moisture.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

To create perfect hot honey chicken sliders, follow these handy tips for optimal results.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs to ensure tenderness and flavor.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a light, crispy coating that’s superior to regular breadcrumbs.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough to achieve that golden-brown color while keeping the inside juicy.
• Let Them Rest: Allow fried chicken to rest for a few minutes before assembling. This helps retain moisture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like jalapeños or fried onions for unique flavors.
• Serve Immediately: Sliders taste best when served fresh and warm, so assemble just before serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

These sliders pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries make a delicious side that adds sweetness and crunch.
2. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad complements the spiciness of the sliders while keeping things classic.
3. Garden Salad: A light garden salad offers freshness and balance with its crisp vegetables.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting side that pairs well with any slider.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet element that works nicely with hot honey flavors.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty side dish with rich flavors that enhance your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making hot honey chicken sliders, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland sliders. Always ensure your chicken thighs are well-seasoned before breading.
• Inconsistent sizing: Cutting chicken thighs into uneven sizes can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure each slider cooks at the same rate.
• Not heating the oil enough: If the oil isn’t hot enough, your chicken won’t crisp up properly. Use a thermometer or drop a breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle immediately when ready.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too many chicken thighs in the skillet at once can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy results. Fry in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the paper towel step: Not draining excess oil from cooked chicken can make your sliders greasy. Be sure to place them on a paper towel-lined plate after frying.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sliders in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

• Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 30 seconds, then check and heat additional time if needed.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add sliders and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, flipping once, until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the hot honey sauce?

To make hot honey sauce, simply combine equal parts honey and your choice of hot sauce in a bowl. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be aware they may cook faster and could become dry if overcooked.

What sides pair well with hot honey chicken sliders?

These sliders go wonderfully with potato wedges, coleslaw, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.

Can I customize my hot honey chicken sliders?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Hot honey chicken sliders are not only delicious but also versatile! Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these sliders can be customized with various toppings and sides. Give them a try and delight your guests with this sweet and spicy treat!