There’s something enticing about the idea of sliders, especially when they come loaded with flavor and a touch of Southern charm. Picture this: a warm slider bun cradling perfectly blackened chicken tenders, their spices dancing with every bite. When I first concocted these Alabama White Chicken Sliders, I knew I was onto something special — the tangy homemade BBQ sauce adds a zesty twist that elevates these beauties beyond your typical game-day fare.
As I took my first bite, I was reminded of casual summer gatherings filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the irresistible allure of homemade food. These sliders are not only quick to whip up, making them a weeknight winner, but they also impress friends and family alike, leaving them begging for seconds. So, whether you’re holding a backyard BBQ or just craving a comforting meal at home, let’s dive into these delicious sliders that promise to bring a burst of flavor to your table!
Why love these Blackened Chicken Sliders?
Flavor Explosion: The combination of blackened seasonings and homemade BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that’s both tangy and savory.
Quick Prep: Perfect for busy nights, these sliders come together in no time without sacrificing taste.
Party Perfect: Ideal for gatherings, these sliders will be the star of your next BBQ, leaving guests raving and wanting more.
Customizable Delight: Make them your own by swapping chicken for beef or adding spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
Family Favorite: Young and old alike will enjoy these sliders, ensuring they disappear in a flash!
For a delightful accompaniment, consider serving them with chips, fries, or a light salad.
Blackened Chicken Sliders Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Tenders – The main protein; opt for air-chilled tenders for extra tenderness, or substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer.
• Olive Oil – Adds moisture and helps the seasoning adhere; vegetable oil works as a suitable replacement.
For the Slider Assembly
• Kings Hawaiian Slider Rolls – These sweet rolls complement the savory chicken and sauce; feel free to use any soft slider or dinner rolls you like.
• Shredded Iceberg Lettuce – A crunchy texture addition; swap with sturdier romaine if desired.
• Dill Pickle Slices – Introduces a tangy flavor; steer clear of sweet pickles and stick to dill for best results.
• Butter – Essential for toasting buns and enriching flavor; a dairy-free alternative can be used if necessary.
• Fresh Parsley – Enhances the flavor in the butter topping; dried parsley is a fine substitute if fresh isn’t available.
• Garlic Clove – Aromatic boost for the butter topping; garlic powder can efficiently replace it.
For Blackened Seasoning
• Smoked Paprika – Adds depth and a smoky flavor; if unavailable, regular paprika can be used instead.
• Cayenne Pepper – Provides heat; adjust to taste based on your spice preference.
• Onion Powder – Useful for a savory note; swap with fresh onions if preferred.
• Garlic Powder – An easy flavor enhancer.
• Black Pepper, Sea Salt, Basil, Oregano, Dried Thyme – These elevate your seasoning mix; opt for Italian seasoning for a shortcut.
For Alabama White Barbecue Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the sauce; consider Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds tangy depth; lemon juice can serve as a substitute in a pinch.
• Dijon Mustard – Offers a zesty touch; yellow mustard can be used as an alternative.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the flavors with sweetness; honey can work well too.
• Creamy Horseradish – Adds a unique kick; reduce quantity for a milder flavor.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce; a splash of lime works beautifully too.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Deepens the flavor; tamari provides a gluten-free option.
• Hot Sauce – For those who enjoy heat; adjust according to your heat tolerance.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder – Round out the sauce’s flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that tie everything together; always adjust to taste.
Prepare to delight your taste buds with these hearty Blackened Chicken Sliders, perfect for any gathering!
How to Make Blackened Chicken Sliders
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Prep the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayo, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, creamy horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate to let the flavors meld together.
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Make Blackened Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, sea salt, basil, oregano, and dried thyme. Mix well and set aside for use.
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Cook Chicken: Coat each chicken tender in olive oil, then sprinkle the blackened seasoning generously on both sides. Heat a skillet over medium-high, add a splash of olive oil, and cook the tenders for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Toast Buns: Combine melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley. Preheat your oven to broil. Brush the cut sides of the slider buns with the butter mixture, then place them cut-side up in the oven until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes—stay close to avoid burning!
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Assemble Sliders: Spread a generous amount of the Alabama white sauce on the bottom buns. Layer with the blackened chicken tenders, a handful of shredded lettuce, and crisp dill pickles. Drizzle extra sauce on top before placing the top bun. Slice and serve these delightful sliders!
Optional: Top with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Blackened Chicken Sliders Variations
Get ready to make these sliders your own with some easy twists and swaps that will delight your taste buds!
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Thigh Switch: Swap chicken tenders for chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful bite. The extra fat adds richness that pairs perfectly with the BBQ sauce.
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Cheesy Delight: Add pepper jack cheese on top of the chicken before broiling the buns for that melty, spicy goodness. It’s a creamy upgrade that brings the heat.
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BBQ Mix-Up: Ditch the Alabama white sauce and try a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce instead. This simple swap transforms the flavor profile, giving the sliders a new twist.
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Veggie Version: Opt for grilled or blackened portobello mushrooms in place of chicken for a delightful vegetarian alternative. The mushrooms absorb the spices, creating a savory, meaty experience.
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Pickle Punch: Amplify the tang by adding sliced jalapeños alongside the dill pickles. This fiery twist takes your sliders from delicious to unforgettable!
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Bun Upgrade: For a different texture, try using crispy baked wonton wrappers instead of slider buns. They’ll add crunch and a dash of fun to your gathering!
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Seasoning Showcase: Experiment with Cajun seasoning instead of the blackened seasoning for a zesty kick that’s sure to impress! The bold flavors will surely keep everyone coming back for more.
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Sweet & Spicy: Mix some honey into your Alabama white sauce for a touch of sweetness. It beautifully balances the heat from the blackened chicken and adds another layer of flavor.
These variations will allow you to reinvent your blackened chicken sliders, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied!
How to Store and Freeze Blackened Chicken Sliders
Fridge: Store assembled sliders in an airtight container, and enjoy within 2 days for optimal freshness. For best results, consider keeping the Alabama white sauce separate until serving.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken tenders (without the buns) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Leftovers: Store leftover Alabama white barbecue sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week, perfect for drizzling over future meals or enjoying as a dip.
Reheating: To reheat the chicken tenders, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Assemble sliders fresh for best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Blackened Chicken Sliders
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Advance the Sauce: Prepare the Alabama white barbecue sauce a day ahead to allow the flavors to blend beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your sliders.
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Monitor Buns: Keep a close eye on the slider buns while toasting to avoid burning. A perfectly golden bun makes all the difference in your blackened chicken sliders!
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Chicken Cook Temp: Ensure your chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees they’re safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender.
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Avoid Soggy Sliders: If serving to a crowd, assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns fresh and avoid sogginess from the sauce.
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Customization Tip: Feel free to experiment with spices in the blackened seasoning; reduce cayenne for a milder flavor, or try adding your favorite herbs for a personal touch.
What to Serve with Blackened Chicken Sliders?
These sliders, with their mouthwatering combination of spicy, blackened chicken and creamy BBQ sauce, deserve sides that complement their robust flavors.
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Crispy French Fries: The golden, crunchy texture of fries perfectly contrasts with the juicy sliders, making every bite satisfying.
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Coleslaw: Fresh, crunchy coleslaw brings a refreshing element that balances the savory sliders. The vinegar dressing adds a delightful tang.
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Sweet Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked or fried, sweet potato wedges offer a sweet counterpoint to the spicy chicken, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile.
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Corn on the Cob: Juicy, grilled corn adds a burst of sweetness, perfectly rounding out the smoky notes of the chicken sliders—ideal for summer gatherings.
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Baked Beans: The earthy sweetness of baked beans pairs beautifully with the zesty BBQ flavors, making it a true Southern side to complete your plate.
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Light Green Salad: A simple salad featuring arugula or spinach dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the richness of the sliders.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: For drinks, offer sweet iced tea or refreshing lemonade to cleanse your palate between bites, elevating your gathering with a touch of tradition.
These choices will surely enhance your meal, making your blackened chicken sliders the highlight of the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Blackened Chicken Sliders are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the Alabama white barbecue sauce up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and zesty flavor. Additionally, the blackened seasoning can be mixed in advance and kept for up to 2 weeks in a cool, dry place. When you’re ready to serve, cook the chicken tenders fresh for the best texture and flavor—just coat them with olive oil and seasoning, then sauté them for about 6 minutes until fully cooked. Assemble the sliders just before serving for an irresistibly delicious meal without the last-minute rush!
Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for blackened chicken sliders?
Absolutely! I recommend using air-chilled chicken tenders for the best tenderness, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts will work just as well if you prefer. Alternatively, chicken thighs can provide a juicier option and add juicy flavor!
How should I store leftover blackened chicken sliders?
For best freshness, store assembled sliders in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within 2 days. If you’d like to keep them for longer, it’s best to store the Alabama white sauce separately until serving to prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze cooked chicken tenders?
Very! To freeze your chicken tenders, first lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before assembling your sliders!
What if my chicken tenders are not browning properly?
If you’re having trouble getting that beautiful blackened crust, make sure your skillet is sufficiently heated before adding the chicken. Allow the tenders to cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes on each side. Adding too much oil can also prevent browning—use just enough to coat the pan!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, consider using gluten-free buns or opting for dairy-free butter for toasting. The homemade Alabama white sauce is creamy but can be modified using Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter option.
How long can I keep Alabama white barbecue sauce in the fridge?
You can store the Alabama white barbecue sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It not only enhances the flavor of your sliders but also works great as a dip for veggies or chicken strips!
Savor Blackened Chicken Sliders with Homemade BBQ Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayo, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, creamy horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate to let the flavors meld together.
- In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, sea salt, basil, oregano, and dried thyme. Mix well and set aside for use.
- Coat each chicken tender in olive oil, then sprinkle the blackened seasoning generously on both sides. Heat a skillet over medium-high, add a splash of olive oil, and cook the tenders for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Combine melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped fresh parsley. Preheat your oven to broil. Brush the cut sides of slider buns with the butter mixture, then place them cut-side up in the oven until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes—stay close to avoid burning!
- Spread a generous amount of the Alabama white sauce on the bottom buns. Layer with the blackened chicken tenders, a handful of shredded lettuce, and crisp dill pickles. Drizzle extra sauce on top before placing the top bun. Slice and serve these delightful sliders!