On a bustling evening, as the aroma of spices filled the kitchen, I realized that some days call for a deliciously satisfying bite. That’s how my crave for Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli was sparked! If you’ve been dreaming of a dish that’s not only quick to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, you’re in for a treat. These sliders are entirely adaptable too – whether you prefer the classic chicken or want a vegetarian twist using tofu, there’s a flavor for everyone. In just 15 minutes, you can have crispy, spicy goodness nestled between soft slider buns, topped with a creamy dill pickle aioli that cuts through the heat. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavor adventure? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why Are Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The perfect balance of spicy and creamy will leave everyone craving more.
Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of cooking, you can serve up delicious sliders faster than you can say “game day”!
Customizable Options: Enjoy the ability to go gluten-free or switch to tofu for a vegetarian option, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Family-Friendly Fun: These sliders are a hit with kids and adults alike, making family dinners or gatherings extra special.
Satisfying Crunch: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from the crispy chicken, paired beautifully with the tangy dill pickle aioli that takes them over the top. Whether you’re pairing these sliders with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet or a fresh veggie platter, they’re bound to elevate your meal!

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Provides the main protein; tender and juicy when marinated, or swap for tofu to make it vegetarian.
• Buttermilk – Ensures the chicken is flavorful and tender; substitute with plant-based milk mixed with vinegar for a dairy-free option.
• All-Purpose Flour – Coating for the chicken that crisps up when fried; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Cayenne Pepper – Delivers the signature spicy kick of Nashville hot chicken; adjust the quantity for your preferred heat level.
• Paprika – Adds color and a delightful smoky flavor.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile, creating depth.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the best impact.

For the Sliders
• Slider Buns – The base for the sliders; choose soft, fresh ones for optimal texture.
• Dill Pickle Slices – Adds crunch and tanginess that balances the heat of the chicken.

For the Dill Pickle Aioli
• Mayonnaise – Acts as the creamy base for the aioli; substitute with vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
• Dill Pickle Juice – Adds an extra layer of flavor to the aioli, truly tying in the pickle theme.

These Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli are bursting with flavor and perfect for sparking joy at your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by placing your chicken thighs in a bowl and covering them with buttermilk. This not only tenderizes the meat but infuses it with flavor. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to ensure that each bite of your Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders is incredibly juicy and delicious.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mixture
While the chicken marinates, use a mixing bowl to whisk together all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This flavorful spice mixture will create the crispy, spicy coating for your chicken. Set this aside as you move onto the next step of cooking for your Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Next, dredge each piece thoroughly in the spice mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture and bold flavor that defines Nashville Hot Chicken, making your sliders irresistible.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the coated chicken thighs to the pan, frying for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F. Use tongs to flip the chicken gently, ensuring they cook evenly and become crispy.

Step 5: Make the Dill Pickle Aioli
While the chicken fries, prepare the dill pickle aioli by combining mayonnaise and dill pickle juice in a bowl. Stir the mixture until smooth and creamy. This aioli adds a refreshing contrast to the spice of your Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders, enhancing the flavor profile of the dish beautifully.

Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
With the chicken fried to perfection, it’s time to construct your sliders. Take a soft slider bun and place a piece of crispy fried chicken on the bottom half. Top it generously with dill pickle slices and a dollop of the dill pickle aioli. Finally, crown your creation with the top half of the bun, ensuring each slider is ready to be enjoyed!

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders Variations

Feel free to get creative and tweak this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend to make these sliders accessible for everyone.

  • Vegetarian: Replace chicken with firm tofu, pressed to remove moisture, marinated, and fried just like the chicken for a delightful meatless option.

  • Add Creaminess: Include slices of avocado or a gooey piece of cheese such as pepper jack on the slider for added richness that enhances the bite.

  • Flavor Infusions: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or dried herbs—adding your signature twist will make each slider uniquely yours.

  • Sauce Variations: Try introducing other sauces alongside the aioli, such as tangy sriracha or sweet barbecue sauce, to keep your taste buds guessing.

  • Slider Size: Try mini slider versions for fun finger food at parties; adjust cooking time accordingly for smaller pieces of chicken or tofu.

  • Heat Level: If you love spice, add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the batter for an extra kick!

  • Pickle Options: Replace dill pickles with bread and butter pickles for a sweeter crunch that balances the heat beautifully.

These variations can transform your Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders into a new culinary adventure every time you make them! For a delicious side dish, consider adding a colorful veggie platter or pairing them with some refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Sheet for a complete meal experience.

Expert Tips for Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders

Marinate Longer: Ensure the chicken is marinated for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Avoid Soggy Buns: Use fresh, soft slider buns to prevent them from getting soggy. Toasting them lightly can add extra texture.

Heat Control: Keep the frying oil at 350°F to achieve perfectly crispy chicken; too low will result in greasy chicken.

Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference for the perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders experience.

Double Fry Option: For an even crispier texture, consider double frying the coated chicken shortly after the first cook to create a delightful crunch.

What to Serve with Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders?

Elevate your meal with delicious sides that balance the spicy goodness of sliders and create a feast for the senses.

  • Crispy Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, refreshing element that complements the heat, making every bite a delightful experience. The tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the sliders beautifully.
  • Creamy Potato Salad: This hearty dish offers a comforting contrast to the spicy chicken. Its velvety texture and mild flavors create a wonderful harmony with the bold sliders.
  • Fresh Veggie Platter: A colorful arrangement of carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers provides a refreshing, crunchy counterpoint to the richness of the chicken. Serve with ranch dip for added flavor!
  • Sweet Cornbread: This subtly sweet side pairs perfectly with spicy dishes, creating a lovely balance. It absorbs flavors while adding a comforting, warm touch to your plate.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage can cut the heat of the sliders. Iced tea offers a slightly bitter contrast, while lemonade brings a zesty sweetness.
  • Baked Beans: These savory and sweet beans offer warmth and depth, complementing the spiciness of the Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders magnificently.
  • Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess of pickled veggies heightens flavors and adds an acidic touch that brightens the overall meal. They also echo the dill pickle aioli, enhancing your sliders’ theme!

How to Store and Freeze Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders

Fridge: Store leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and prevents drying out.

Freezer: If you want to freeze the cooked chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwave reheating for best texture.

Assembling Later: If you plan to make sliders ahead of time, store the components separately (chicken, buns, and aioli) to keep everything fresh and maintain the desired texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli are a wonderful meal prep solution for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs in buttermilk for up to 24 hours in advance, which ensures they’ll be super tender and flavorful. Additionally, you can prepare the spicy flour coating and dill pickle aioli ahead of time—store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the marinated chicken and assemble the sliders by adding the aioli and pickle slices. With these make-ahead strategies, you’ll have restaurant-quality Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli ready to delight your family in no time!

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken thighs for this recipe?
When selecting chicken thighs, look for pieces that are firm and have a good amount of marbling. The meat should be pink and shiny without any dark spots or an off odor. If you’re opting for the vegetarian version, choose firm tofu that is well-pressed to remove excess moisture, ensuring it absorbs all the flavor during marination.

What’s the best way to store leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders?
Store leftover Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This not only helps maintain their flavor but also keeps the chicken from drying out. If you’re looking for an option to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the chicken separately, well-wrapped, for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze the chicken after cooking?
Absolutely! To freeze your cooked Nashville Hot Chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture.

What if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying?
If your chicken isn’t crisping up, it may be due to a few reasons. First, ensure the oil is adequately heated (around 350°F) before adding the chicken; oil that’s too cool can make the coating soggy. You can also try double frying: cook the chicken once until golden, let it rest, and then fry again for a few more minutes for extra crunch.

Are there any dietary considerations for Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders?
If you’re cooking for a crowd, it’s great to know that these sliders can easily accommodate gluten-free diets by substituting all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend. For those with allergies, ensure the mayonnaise used in the dill pickle aioli is free from eggs if requested, and remember to ask about any specific allergies related to spices or seasoning mixes.

How long can I keep marinated chicken in the fridge?
You can keep marinated chicken thighs in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you’d like to marinate longer for even more flavor, I recommend doing so overnight. Just remember, the longer they sit in the buttermilk, the tastier and more tender they’ll be once cooked!

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli

Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli Bliss

These Nashville Hot Chicken Sliders with Dill Pickle Aioli are quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 sliders
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs or substitute with tofu for vegetarian option
  • 1 cup Buttermilk or plant-based milk with vinegar for dairy-free
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option
  • 2 teaspoons Cayenne Pepper adjust for heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Sliders
  • 4 Slider Buns soft and fresh for optimal texture
  • 8 slices Dill Pickle Slices
For the Dill Pickle Aioli
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise or vegan mayo for plant-based option
  • 2 tablespoons Dill Pickle Juice

Equipment

  • frying pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Marinate the chicken by placing chicken thighs in a bowl and covering with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Prepare the spice mixture by whisking together all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
  3. Coat the marinated chicken in the spice mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides.
  4. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F. Fry the coated chicken thighs for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. Make the dill pickle aioli by combining mayonnaise and dill pickle juice in a bowl, stirring until smooth.
  6. Assemble the sliders by placing crispy chicken on the bun, topping with dill pickle slices and aioli, then adding the top bun.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliderCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Marinate the chicken longer for maximum flavor and tenderness. Use fresh buns and maintain frying oil temperature for best results.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!