Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders: Prepare to meet your new favorite appetizer (or even a fun weeknight dinner!). These aren’t your average mini-burgers; they’re a symphony of sweet and savory, crispy and tender, all nestled within a soft, pillowy slider bun. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!
The beauty of sliders, in general, lies in their versatility and shareability. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion where you want to offer a variety of flavors in a manageable, bite-sized package. While the exact origins of the slider are debated, many believe they originated in the early 20th century, perhaps even as a way to quickly feed hungry factory workers. Now, they’re a global phenomenon, adapted and reimagined with countless flavor combinations.
What makes these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet maple syrup, smoky bacon, and juicy chicken. The maple glaze adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory bacon and chicken beautifully. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly flavorful, satisfying, and easy to eat. Plus, they are relatively quick to prepare, making them a winner for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The combination of textures – the crispy bacon, the tender chicken, and the soft bun – is simply divine. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these little flavor bombs!
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Maple Bacon Glaze:
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns, split
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, avocado slices
Preparing the Chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken Coating: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for maximum flavor!
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Ensure each piece is well-covered with the flour mixture. This will help create a nice crust when we cook it.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. You want the oil hot enough to sear the chicken, but not so hot that it burns.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the coated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken will steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook in batches. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from Heat: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Maple Bacon Glaze:
- Cook the Bacon: If you haven’t already, cook the bacon until crispy. I prefer to bake mine in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, but you can also cook it in a skillet. Once cooked, crumble the bacon and set aside. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the pan.
- Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), and the reserved bacon fat.
- Simmer the Glaze: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Be careful not to burn it!
- Add Bacon: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the crumbled bacon. Reserve a small amount of bacon for garnish.
Assembling the Sliders:
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in the chopped chives. This adds a nice fresh flavor that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
- Spread the Cream Cheese: Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto the bottom halves of the slider buns.
- Add the Chicken: Place a portion of the cooked chicken onto each of the cream cheese-covered buns.
- Drizzle with Glaze: Generously drizzle the maple bacon glaze over the chicken. Make sure each slider gets a good coating of that delicious glaze!
- Add Toppings (Optional): If desired, add lettuce, tomato slices, or avocado slices to the sliders.
- Top with Buns: Place the top halves of the slider buns onto the sliders.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the reserved crumbled bacon over the sliders. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them altogether.
- Bacon Type: Feel free to use your favorite type of bacon. I recommend thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture.
- Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs will be more moist and flavorful.
- Cheese Options: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, you can use other types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone.
- Bun Options: Hawaiian rolls are a great alternative to slider buns. They add a touch of sweetness that complements the maple bacon glaze.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and maple bacon glaze ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the sliders just before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: These sliders are great for parties, game day, or a quick and easy weeknight meal. Serve them with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or french fries.
Detailed Cooking Instructions and Considerations:
Chicken Preparation Details: When cutting the chicken into 1-inch cubes, try to keep them as uniform as possible. This will ensure that they cook evenly. Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If you need to cook the chicken in batches, make sure to reheat the oil between batches. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure that it is safe to eat.
Maple Bacon Glaze Nuances: The quality of the maple syrup will greatly affect the flavor of the glaze. Use pure maple syrup for the best results. Avoid using pancake syrup, which is often made with corn syrup and artificial flavors. When simmering the glaze, keep a close eye on it to prevent it from burning. The glaze should thicken slightly, but it should still be pourable. If the glaze becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water to thin it out. The apple cider vinegar adds a tanginess that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute white vinegar or lemon juice.
Slider Assembly Tips: Softening the cream cheese is essential for creating a smooth and creamy spread. If you forget to take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator ahead of time, you can microwave it for a few seconds to soften it. Be careful not to overheat it, or it will melt. The chives add a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the cream cheese spread. If you don’t have chives, you can substitute other herbs, such as parsley or dill. When assembling the sliders, don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings. Lettuce, tomato slices, avocado slices, and pickles are all great options. You can also add a drizzle of hot sauce for a little extra heat.
Troubleshooting:
- Chicken is Dry: If your chicken is dry, you may have overcooked it. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and avoid cooking it past 165°F (74°C). You can also try marinating the chicken before cooking it to help keep it moist.
- Glaze is Too Thick: If your glaze is too thick, add a tablespoon of water or apple cider vinegar to thin it out.
- Glaze is Too Thin: If your glaze is too thin, continue simmering it until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Sliders are Soggy: To prevent the sliders from becoming soggy, avoid adding too much glaze. You can also toast the slider buns before assembling them to help them hold up better.
Storage Instructions:
If you have any leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Nutritional Information (Approximate):
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 350-400 per slider
- Protein: 25-30g
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve 1 tbsp bacon fat)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 slider buns, split
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, avocado slices
- Prepare the Chicken Coating: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the coated chicken to the skillet in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy. Crumble and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat.
- Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), and reserved bacon fat.
- Simmer the Glaze: Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until thickened slightly.
- Add Bacon: Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled bacon (reserve some for garnish).
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese and milk. Mix until smooth. Stir in chopped chives.
- Spread the Cream Cheese: Spread cream cheese mixture onto the bottom halves of the slider buns.
- Add the Chicken: Place a portion of the cooked chicken onto each bun.
- Drizzle with Glaze: Generously drizzle maple bacon glaze over the chicken.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Add lettuce, tomato slices, or avocado slices.
- Top with Buns: Place the top halves of the slider buns onto the sliders.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle reserved crumbled bacon over the sliders. Serve immediately.
- Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper/red pepper flakes to your preference. Omit for a milder flavor.
- Bacon Type: Use your favorite thick-cut bacon.
- Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken thighs for a more moist and flavorful option.
- Cheese Options: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone can be used instead of cream cheese.
- Bun Options: Hawaiian rolls are a great alternative.
- Make Ahead: Prepare chicken and glaze ahead of time. Store separately and assemble just before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, or french fries.
- Chicken Preparation Details: Cut chicken into uniform cubes for even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- Maple Bacon Glaze Nuances: Use pure maple syrup. Simmer glaze carefully to prevent burning. If glaze becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water. Apple cider vinegar can be substituted with white vinegar or lemon juice.
- Slider Assembly Tips: Soften cream cheese for a smooth spread. Chives can be substituted with other herbs like parsley or dill. Get creative with toppings!
- Troubleshooting:
- Chicken is Dry: Avoid overcooking. Marinate chicken before cooking.
- Glaze is Too Thick: Add water or apple cider vinegar.
- Glaze is Too Thin: Continue simmering until thickened.
- Sliders are Soggy: Avoid too much glaze. Toast buns before assembling.
- Storage Instructions: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Conclusion:
And there you have it! These Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are truly a game-changer. I know, I know, I might be a little biased, but trust me on this one. The sweet and savory combination of the maple-glazed chicken, crispy bacon, and soft slider buns is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).
But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s also surprisingly easy to make. We’re talking minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend barbecue, or even a fun appetizer for your next party. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Who can resist the allure of chicken, bacon, and maple syrup? I certainly can’t!
These sliders are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. The contrasting textures and flavors create a symphony in your mouth. The juicy chicken, the crunchy bacon, the soft bun, and the sweet maple glaze all work together in perfect harmony. It’s a culinary adventure that you won’t soon forget.
Looking for serving suggestions? These sliders are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a side of crispy sweet potato fries, a refreshing coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a more substantial meal, you could add a side of mac and cheese or baked beans. The possibilities are endless!
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some variations? You could swap out the maple syrup for honey or agave nectar. Or, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken for a touch of heat. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a creamy brie. For a vegetarian option, try using grilled halloumi cheese instead of chicken. Get creative and make these sliders your own!
Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun in the kitchen. Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, and this recipe is the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner chef.
I truly believe that these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders will become a new family favorite. They’re quick, easy, delicious, and versatile. What more could you ask for?
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill (or oven), and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed.
And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you think? Share your photos and comments on social media using #MapleChickenBaconSliders. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Your input helps me create even better recipes in the future. Let’s build a community of slider-loving foodies together! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy these as much as I do. They are truly one of my favorite recipes to make and share. I am confident they will be one of your favorites too!
Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders: The Ultimate Recipe You Need Now
Sweet and savory Maple Bacon Chicken Sliders! Juicy chicken bites coated in a smoky spice blend, drizzled with a decadent maple bacon glaze, and served on soft slider buns with a creamy chive spread. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight meal!
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