Description
Wichita Chicken Sliders are deliciously seasoned grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts or thighs served on toasted slider buns with creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing mixed with a hint of hot sauce. These sliders are layered with cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, and optional pickles, making them a perfect savory appetizer or meal for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Assembly
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 8 slider buns (small sandwich rolls)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup pickles, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium heat to ensure an even cooking temperature for the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts or thighs with olive oil, then season evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, and salt and pepper to taste for a flavorful coating.
- Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-sear the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to retain juices before slicing into strips or pieces.
- Toast the Slider Buns: While the chicken rests, toast the slider buns lightly in the skillet or oven to add crispness and warmth, enhancing the texture of the sandwich.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix ranch or blue cheese dressing with hot sauce, if desired, creating a creamy and tangy spread to complement the chicken.
- Assemble the Sliders: Spread a generous amount of the prepared sauce on the bottom halves of the slider buns. Layer with sliced chicken, a slice of cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, a slice of tomato, and optional pickles. Top with the bun halves to complete the sliders.
- Serve: Serve the sliders immediately while warm, optionally offering extra dipping sauce on the side for added flavor.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs if you prefer juicier, more flavorful sliders.
- Adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce quantities for desired spiciness.
- To melt the cheese, place assembled sliders under a broiler for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Pickles add a nice crunch and tang, but they are optional based on preference.
- These sliders can be made ahead by preparing chicken and sauce in advance, then assembling just before serving.
