Sizzling sounds and mouthwatering aromas filled the air as I first tried my hand at these Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders. Picture juicy, golden-brown chicken, perfectly seasoned and encased in a tangy-sweet honey mustard sauce, all nestled within soft slider buns. This recipe isn’t just about satisfying those lunchtime cravings; it’s quick, easy, and tailored for all kinds of gatherings, making it a true crowd-pleaser! From cozy weeknight dinners to lively game day feasts, these sliders can be customized to fit your flavor whims. Plus, they can be made ahead—perfect for busy schedules! What tempting variations will you explore? Why are Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders a must-try? Crowd-Pleaser, these sliders are sure to impress with their delightful combination of flavors, making them perfect for any gathering. Customizable, you can easily switch up ingredients like buns and toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs. Quick Preparation, from prep to plate in no time, these sliders are a life-saver during busy weeknights. Finger-Licking Good, every bite is a delicious blend of crunchy chicken and tangy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Looking for other tasty chicken options? Check out these Honey BBQ Chicken or Bang Chicken Sliders for more delicious ideas! Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Main protein; cut into slider-sized portions (2-3 inches square). • All-Purpose Flour – Coating for frying; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. • Paprika – Adds color and mild flavor; smoked paprika can provide extra depth. • Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor profile; fresh garlic offers a bolder taste. • Onion Powder – Complements the garlic; sauté fresh onions for varied texture. • Cayenne Pepper – Optional heat; omit for a milder flavor or increase for a spicy kick. • Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasonings; adjust to taste. • Eggs – Binds the breading; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option. • Panko Breadcrumbs – Delivers extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs can replace them, though texture will vary. For Frying • Vegetable Oil – Use for frying; swap with olive oil or opt for air frying. For the Honey Mustard Sauce • Mayonnaise – Base for the sauce; Greek yogurt provides a lighter alternative. • Dijon Mustard – Key ingredient in the honey mustard sauce; yellow mustard can be substituted. • Honey – Adds sweetness; maple syrup can serve as a vegan alternative. • Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers tanginess; lemon juice can work as an alternative. • Garlic Powder – Adds depth to the sauce; adjust amount based on preference. For the Sliders • Cheddar Cheese – Optional topping for creaminess; consider swapping with Swiss or pepper jack. • Slider Buns – Choose soft buns that complement the flavors; consider Hawaiian or pretzel buns for variations. These delicious Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders are versatile and can be tailored to fit your desired taste preferences! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders Step 1: Prepare Chicken Start by cutting the chicken breasts into slider-sized pieces, about 2-3 inches square. If any cuts are thick, butterfly them to ensure uniform cooking. As you work, preheat the skillet on medium heat, so it’s ready when your chicken is breaded. Step 2: Setup Breading Station Organize a breading station by placing three shallow dishes in a row. In the first, mix together all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. The second dish will hold beaten eggs, and the third should be filled with panko breadcrumbs. Step 3: Bread Chicken Take each piece of chicken and dredge it first in the seasoned flour, coating it completely. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before moving it to the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure an even coating—this will give your Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders that perfect crunch. Step 4: Rest Coated Chicken After breading, let the chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes on a plate. This helps the coating adhere better during frying, ensuring a nice, crispy texture on your sliders later on. Step 5: Heat Oil In a large skillet, heat about a ¼ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking—this should take about 5 minutes. To test if it’s hot enough, drop a small bit of breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Step 6: Fry Chicken Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry each piece for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Step 7: Drain Once fried, use tongs to transfer the chicken to a wire rack lined with paper towels. This step allows excess oil to drain, keeping your sliders light and crispy. Step 8: Make Sauce While the chicken is cooling, prepare the honey mustard sauce in a mixing bowl. Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and taste to adjust seasoning to your preference. Step 9: Prepare Buns If you prefer toasted buns, lightly toast the slider buns in the skillet for about 1-2 minutes, cut-side down, until golden. This will add extra crunch and flavor to your Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders. Step 10: Assemble Sliders Spread a generous layer of the honey mustard sauce over the bottom half of each slider bun. Place a piece of fried chicken on top, add optional cheddar cheese and any other desired toppings, then close with the top bun. Step 11: Serve Serve your Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders immediately while they’re warm and crispy, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious treat right from the skillet! What to Serve with Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders? The perfect meal starts here, enhancing those crispy sliders with delightful sides and sips that complement every bite. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: A subtle sweetness paired with crispy edges adds a delightful contrast to the savory sliders. Crunchy Coleslaw: This refreshing, tangy slaw introduces a crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, balancing the flavors perfectly. The bright colors and vibrant textures make it a visually appealing addition to your table. Fresh Green Salad: Light and vibrant, a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the sliders. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: The aromatic garlic flavors and roasted sweetness of the vegetables complement the honey mustard beautifully while offering a rustic touch to your meal. Potato Wedges: Seasoned and crisped to perfection, these are a hearty companion to the sliders that will satisfy any comfort food cravings. Sparkling Lemonade: This thirst-quenching drink adds a zesty brightness that refreshes the palette, making it a perfect pairing with the rich flavors of your Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders. Mini Cheesecakes: End your meal on a sweet note with bite-sized cheesecakes. Their creamy texture and sweetness provide a lovely contrast to the savory sliders. Make Ahead Options These Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying, which helps maintain that crispy texture (just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent moisture). Additionally, the honey mustard sauce can be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the breaded chicken until golden brown and assemble the sliders. You’ll have delicious, warm sliders that taste just as fresh without the last-minute rush! Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders Variations Feel free to get creative with these sliders and make them your own with delightful twists and swaps! Dairy-Free: Substitute cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese or skip it entirely for a lighter option. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and regular gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep it friendly for all diets. Spicy Twist: Add more cayenne pepper to the breading or a splash of hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce for extra kick. Different Cheeses: Experiment with Swiss, provolone, or spicy pepper jack to switch up the flavor profile of your sliders. Unique Buns: Swap traditional slider buns for Hawaiian rolls or soft pretzel buns to add delightful sweetness and texture. Healthy Options: Air fry the breaded chicken instead of frying for a healthier twist without losing that satisfying crunch. Extra Toppings: Enhance your sliders with crispy bacon, avocado cream, or pickled jalapeños for added richness and flavor. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the chicken and honey mustard sauce up to a day in advance, saving precious time when you’re busy or entertaining guests. Looking for more chicken-inspired ideas? Check out these scrumptious Honey BBQ Chicken or the mouthwatering Honey Butter Chicken for even more culinary fun! Expert Tips for Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders • Heat the Oil Correctly: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a perfect crispy texture. A sizzling sound when you add the chicken means you’re on the right track! • Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding cools the oil, leaving you with soggy, less-crispy sliders. • Prep Ahead of Time: If you’re short on time, bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, and simply fry them just before serving! • Customize the Sauce: Feel free to experiment with the honey mustard sauce by adding spices, hot sauce, or fresh herbs for a unique flavor twist. • Choose the Right Buns: Selecting the right slider buns can elevate your dish. Soft, slightly sweet buns like Hawaiian are perfect for balancing the flavors of the Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders. How to Store and Freeze Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, separate the chicken from buns and sauce if possible. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the breaded chicken pieces (before frying) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frying when you’re ready to enjoy! Reheating: To reheat, bake the sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will keep the bread crispy while warming the chicken. Make-Ahead: Consider making the honey mustard sauce ahead of time; it can last in the fridge for up to 3 days, ready to complement your freshly made sliders! Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken for the sliders? Absolutely! Look for chicken breasts that are plump and have a pinkish color with minimal dark spots. Avoid any that feel slimy or have a strong odor, as these indicate spoilage. For the juiciest sliders, opt for chicken that’s as fresh as possible! How should I store leftover Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders? Very easy! Place leftover sliders in an airtight container, and they’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If possible, store the chicken separately from the buns and sauce to maintain their textures. When ready to enjoy, just reassemble! Can I freeze the chicken strips for my sliders? Indeed! To freeze, bread the chicken pieces as detailed in the recipe, but do not fry them. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and fry! What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying? Oh no! If your chicken isn’t achieving that desired crispiness, it might be due to overcrowding the skillet or insufficient oil temperature. Make sure to heat the oil until it’s shimmering before adding the chicken, and fry in smaller batches to keep the temperature consistent. Is there a healthy option for the Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders? Yes! If you’re looking to make a healthier version, you can use air frying instead of deep frying. Simply spray the breaded chicken with a bit of oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through and crispy. Additionally, consider using whole grain buns for a nutritious addition. Can I make the honey mustard sauce in advance? Absolutely! The honey mustard sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl and keep it handy for assembling your sliders when you’re ready to serve! Delicious Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders for Easy Weeknight Dinners These Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders are quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, combining juicy chicken with a tangy-sweet sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 6 slidersCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Chicken Breasts cut into slider-sized portions (2-3 inches square)1 cup All-Purpose Flour can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend1 tablespoon Paprika smoked paprika can provide extra depth1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh garlic offers a bolder taste1 teaspoon Onion Powder sauté fresh onions for varied texture1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper omit for a milder flavor or increase for a spicy kick1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste1 teaspoon Black Pepper adjust to taste2 large Eggs substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs regular breadcrumbs can replace them, though texture will varyFor Frying1/4 cup Vegetable Oil swap with olive oil or opt for air fryingFor the Honey Mustard Sauce1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt provides a lighter alternative1/4 cup Dijon Mustard yellow mustard can be substituted1/4 cup Honey maple syrup can serve as a vegan alternative1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar lemon juice can work as an alternative1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder adjust amount based on preferenceFor the Sliders6 pieces Slider Buns consider Hawaiian or pretzel buns for variations4 slices Cheddar Cheese consider swapping with Swiss or pepper jack Equipment SkilletShallow dishes Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by cutting the chicken breasts into slider-sized pieces, about 2-3 inches square. If any cuts are thick, butterfly them to ensure uniform cooking. Preheat the skillet on medium heat.Organize a breading station with three shallow dishes: one for seasoned flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs.Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.Allow the coated chicken to rest for about 10-15 minutes on a plate to help the coating adhere better.In a large skillet, heat about a ¼ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. A breadcrumb dropped into the oil should sizzle.Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil, frying each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack lined with paper towels to allow excess oil to drain.In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the honey mustard sauce.If desired, lightly toast the slider buns in the skillet for about 1-2 minutes, cut-side down, until golden.Assemble the sliders by spreading honey mustard sauce on the bottom half of each bun, placing a piece of fried chicken on top, adding cheddar cheese and any other desired toppings, and closing with the top bun.Serve immediately while warm and crispy. Nutrition Serving: 1sliderCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesThese sliders can be customized to fit your desired taste preferences and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy schedules. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
