These Maple Chicken Sliders are the kind of recipe that turns any ordinary gathering into a small celebration. Each bite is a glorious marriage of sweet, sticky maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard, hugging tender shredded chicken like an old friend. The sturdy mini slider buns soak up every bit of that luscious sauce, giving you a soft exterior that slightly crisped up with melted butter. I still remember the first time I whipped these up for a weekend game night—my friends couldn’t stop sneaking back to the kitchen, and before long, the entire batch was gone. Serving them alongside some crisp sweet potato fries and a bright green salad felt like winning the flavor lottery and finding extra cash in your jeans pocket all at once.
What really seals the deal is the little heap of creamy coleslaw that crowns each slider. It cuts through the richness with a light, tangy crunch, plus you get that extra pop of color on the plate. Sliders are so much fun because you can customize them—throw on a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous, or add crispy bacon crumbles for a smoky twist. Whether you’re cooking up a cozy weeknight dinner for two or hosting a crowd of hungry partygoers, these sliders work like a charm. In just under an hour, including prep and cooking time, you’ll have a platter of irresistible handhelds that any beginner cook can master. So roll up your sleeves, because you’re about to become the star of your next casual feast!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN MAPLE CHICKEN SLIDERS
Before you dive in, let’s break down the essentials that make these sliders sing. Each component plays a unique role, from the succulent chicken that soaks up the sauce to the crunchy coleslaw that brings brightness and texture. Having these on hand will ensure you breeze through prep and assemble effortlessly.
- Chicken breasts
Boneless, skinless cuts that shred beautifully after baking. They form the hearty base, soaking up all the sweet and tangy flavors from the maple-Dijon mixture.
- Pure maple syrup
Adds a deep, natural sweetness and glossy coating to the chicken. It also caramelizes slightly when simmered, creating a sticky, finger-licking sauce.
- Dijon mustard
Brings a mellow heat and sharp tang that balances the sweetness of the syrup. It helps emulsify the sauce, ensuring every shred of chicken is evenly coated.
- Soy sauce
Injects a savory, umami-rich depth, rounding out the flavor profile. It also enhances the caramelization of the sauce as it simmers.
- Garlic powder
Provides a subtle garlic backbone without the fuss of fresh cloves. It layers in extra warmth and complexity.
- Salt
Used to season the chicken before baking, ensuring it’s perfectly seasoned throughout, never bland.
- Black pepper
Adds a mild, sharp bite that lifts the sweet-savory sauce, giving each bite a gentle kick.
- Mini slider buns
Soft and slightly sweet, their size is perfect for bite-sized portions. Toasted with butter, they’re golden and slightly crispy on the inside.
- Cheddar cheese
Halved slices melt evenly, adding gooey richness that complements the sweet chicken.
- Coleslaw mix
A colorful blend of shredded cabbage and carrots. It brings crunch, freshness, and a slight earthiness.
- Mayonnaise
Binds the slaw together, creating a creamy contrast to the saucy chicken.
- Apple cider vinegar
Lends a bright, tangy punch to the slaw, cutting through the richness.
- Honey
Tickles the palate with additional sweetness that echoes the maple syrup without overpowering.
- Celery seed (optional)
Offers a faint herbal, slightly bitter note that accentuates the slaw’s crunch.
- Butter
Melted and brushed on buns, it ensures each slider has a golden, buttery crunch.
HOW TO MAKE MAPLE CHICKEN SLIDERS
Let’s walk through the simple steps that transform these everyday pantry ingredients into mouthwatering party sliders. With just a bit of prep and a short bake time, you’ll have tender, saucy chicken ready to be piled high.
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the rack is centered so heat circulates evenly around the baking dish.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, coating each piece thoroughly to build that foundational flavor.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce until smooth and well-emulsified.
4. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish, then pour the maple syrup mixture over them, making sure they are fully covered in sauce.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
6. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and celery seed. Mix well to create a creamy, tangy slaw, then set aside.
7. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and shred it with two forks, breaking it into bite-sized pieces right in the dish.
8. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the shredded chicken along with any remaining sauce from the baking dish. Stir occasionally and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken.
9. Lightly brush the inside of each slider bun with melted butter and toast them in a hot skillet until they’re golden brown and fragrant.
10. Assemble by placing a half-slice of cheddar on the bottom bun, topping it with a generous scoop of maple chicken, and finishing with a spoonful of coleslaw. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR MAPLE CHICKEN SLIDERS
Whether you’re planning a laid-back lunch or a festive appetizer spread, presentation and pairings can take these sliders to the next level. Think about contrasting textures and complementary flavors so each bite feels complete. The beauty of sliders is their adaptability—you can dress them up or keep them casual, depending on your mood and audience. Below are some ideas to inspire you, from crunchy side dishes to bright, refreshing accouterments. Don’t be afraid to experiment with sauces, garnishes, and plating styles that speak to your personal taste or seasonal produce.
- Pair with sweet potato fries and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a rustic, sweet-and-spicy combo that enhances the maple notes.
- Serve alongside a light garden salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness and add a burst of acidity.
- Offer a spicy dipping sauce—mix sriracha with a dollop of Greek yogurt—so friends can amp up the heat as they like.
- Garnish each slider platter with fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley for a vivid pop of color and an herbaceous lift.
HOW TO STORE MAPLE CHICKEN SLIDERS
Once you’ve assembled these sliders, you might find yourself saving leftovers for snacking later. Proper storage will keep the chicken juicy, the buns from getting soggy, and the slaw crisp. Whether you’re stashing them for next-day lunchboxes or freezing batches for future gatherings, following a few simple guidelines ensures each component retains its best texture and flavor. Labeling your containers with the date and contents helps you rotate through your fridge or freezer stock effectively. Here are some tips to maintain that freshly-made quality.
- Store fully assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Line the container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- Keep components separately—toasted buns, shredded chicken, and slaw—in distinct containers if you plan to eat them over multiple days. Reheat chicken alone, then assemble sliders right before serving.
- For longer storage, place shredded chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container, leaving a little headspace. Freeze flat for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed, and toast buns fresh to restore their crispiness.
CONCLUSION
Thank you for sticking with me through this delicious ride of sweet-and-savory delight! By now, you’ve learned how to marry tender shredded chicken with pure maple syrup, tangy Dijon mustard, and a crunchy coleslaw topping. You’ve gathered all the essentials—from pantry staples like soy sauce and garlic powder to fresh components like coleslaw mix and mini slider buns. The magic happens in your oven, your skillet, and finally, in that delightful assembly where cheese melts just right and buns turn golden with butter. The whole process takes under an hour, perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned entertainers alike. Feel free to print this article, save it in your recipe binder, or snapshot it on your phone for that next weeknight dinner or backyard gathering.
Below you’ll find a handy FAQ section to address any lingering questions about substitutions, cooking times, and more. If you give these sliders a whirl, I’d love to hear about your adventure—drop a comment, share your tweaks, or ask for help if you hit a snag. Whether you’re craving comfort food for a cozy night in or seeking an easy party platter, these Maple Chicken Sliders have your back. Happy cooking, and here’s to making every bite count!
Maple Chicken Sliders
Description
These maple chicken sliders combine tender shredded chicken, zesty dijon, and a hearty coleslaw, all nestled in toasted buns—perfect for parties or a casual meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce.
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Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the maple syrup mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
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Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
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Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and celery seed. Mix well and set aside.
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Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and shred it using two forks.
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Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the shredded chicken along with the remaining maple syrup mixture from the baking dish. Stir occasionally and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Lightly brush the inside of each slider bun with melted butter and toast them in a skillet until golden brown.
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Place the cheddar cheese slices on the bottom half of each bun, add a generous portion of the maple chicken, and top with a spoonful of coleslaw.
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Cover with the top half of the buns and serve immediately.
Note
- For a spicier kick, you can add a dash of hot sauce to the maple mixture.
- These sliders pair perfectly with sweet potato fries or a simple green salad.
- If you want to add more texture, consider adding crispy bacon crumbles on top of the chicken.
- This recipe is great for parties and can easily be doubled or tripled to accommodate more guests.
