Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders! They’re an absolute game-changer at any gathering. Picture this: tender, juicy chicken thighs, crispy bacon, and a sweet drizzle of pure maple syrup, all nestled in soft slider buns. I remember the first time I made them for a family barbecue; everyone raved about the flavors! The combination of savory and sweet is just heavenly. Whether it’s a fun weekend get-together or a cozy family dinner, these sliders always steal the show. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your go-to dish for any occasion. You’ll be the star of the party, and everyone will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slider buns
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced tomatoes
How to Prepare Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders
Alright, let’s dive into making these mouthwatering Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders! I promise, it’s easier than you think and oh-so-worth it!
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill or Skillet
First things first, you need to preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. This is super important because a hot cooking surface helps the chicken sear beautifully, locking in all that juicy flavor. You want it nice and toasty before the chicken hits the pan!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Now, grab those boneless chicken thighs and sprinkle them with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This seasoning combo is what brings the flavor to life! Make sure to coat them evenly, so every bite is bursting with taste.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Time to cook! Place the seasoned chicken thighs on your grill or skillet and let them sizzle away for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the juices run clear. I always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is your magic number!
Step 4: Cook the Bacon
In the last minute of cooking the chicken, add the slices of thick-cut bacon to the grill or skillet. Let them cook until crispy and fragrant. Oh wow, the smell is heavenly! The bacon adds such a nice crunch that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Step 5: Toast the Slider Buns
While the bacon is getting crispy, toast your slider buns on the grill or in a toaster until they’re lightly golden. This adds a lovely texture that holds up against the juicy fillings. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
Now, the best part—assembly! Start with the toasted bun, then layer on a piece of chicken, followed by the crispy bacon, a handful of shredded lettuce, and some fresh tomato slices. The colors and textures are just delightful!
Step 7: Drizzle with Maple Syrup
Finally, it’s time to finish these sliders off with a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. This sweet touch is what sets them apart! It’s the perfect contrast to the savory chicken and bacon. Serve them up immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Delicious combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet maple syrup that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
- Great for parties, family meals, or even a game day treat—you’ll be the hit of the party!
- Customizable to suit your taste—add your favorite toppings like cheese or pickles!
- Made with simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Gluten-free option available, making it friendly for various diets.
- Fun to assemble with friends or family—let everyone build their own sliders!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your slider game:
- Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Trust me, thick-cut bacon adds the best texture and flavor. It stays crispy longer and holds up beautifully against the juicy chicken.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: The chicken thighs love those spices! Make sure to season generously—not just a sprinkle. You want every bite to be packed with flavor.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Add slices of avocado, jalapeños for some heat, or even a slice of your favorite cheese for extra creaminess.
- Try Different Buns: While slider buns are great, you can also use Hawaiian rolls or even mini bagels for a fun twist. Just make sure they’re soft and easy to bite into!
- Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can season the chicken and cook the bacon ahead of time. Just reheat them before assembly. It makes everything so much smoother!
- Maple Syrup Alternatives: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping maple syrup with honey or a spicy BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re cooking multiple batches, give each chicken piece some space in the pan. This helps them cook evenly and get that lovely sear.
Follow these tips, and I promise you’ll impress everyone with your delicious sliders! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders! Keep in mind that the nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just rough estimates. Typically, one slider contains about 300 calories, along with 15 grams of fat, 15 grams of protein, and 30 grams of carbohydrates. You’ll also find around 8 grams of sugar and 600 milligrams of sodium. But don’t let the numbers scare you! These sliders are packed with protein from the chicken and bacon, plus some fresh veggies on top. They make for a deliciously balanced meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy them in moderation, and you’ll feel great about indulging in this tasty treat!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts if you prefer, but keep in mind that they can be a bit drier than thighs. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy, thanks to their higher fat content. If you do opt for breasts, just make sure to watch the cooking time closely and consider marinating them beforehand to help keep them moist.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just place the sliders in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They should be good for about 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature or use a microwave. Just be careful not to overheat them, or the buns might get too chewy!
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and bacon ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them before assembling the sliders for a quick and easy meal. You can even toast the buns in advance and keep them in a separate container. It’s a great way to save time on busy days!
What can I serve with these sliders?
These Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are fantastic on their own, but you can amp up your meal with some tasty sides! I love serving them with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh side salad for some crunch. You could also whip up some coleslaw or a creamy potato salad for a classic touch. They’re perfect for pairing with a refreshing drink, too!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
Print
Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders That Will Wow Your Guests
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 sliders 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are a delicious combination of chicken, bacon, and maple syrup on soft slider buns.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slider buns
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Cook chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- In the last minute of cooking, add bacon to the grill or skillet and cook until crispy.
- Remove chicken and bacon from heat.
- Toast the slider buns on the grill or in a toaster.
- Assemble sliders by placing chicken on the bun, topping with bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- Drizzle maple syrup over the assembled sliders.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bacon for better texture.
- Feel free to add cheese if desired.
- These sliders can be assembled ahead of time and warmed before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling or Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders, Chicken Sliders, Bacon Sliders, Maple Syrup Recipes