Fried Chicken Sliders: 7 Irresistible Flavor Combos

Name: Fried Chicken Sliders: 7 Irresistible Flavor Combos
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 6 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Pickles; Your favorite sauce

September 26, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about fried chicken sliders! These little bundles of joy are not just food; they’re a celebration on a bun! There’s something absolutely magical about biting into crispy, golden chicken tucked between soft slider buns, and I just can’t get enough. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a game day party, or just craving something delicious for dinner, these sliders are a total crowd-pleaser. I remember the first time I made them for a family BBQ—everyone went wild! Seriously, they disappeared faster than I could make them. Plus, you can easily customize them with your favorite toppings and sauces, making them versatile enough for any occasion. Trust me, once you try my fried chicken sliders, they’ll become your go-to for every gathering!

Ingredients for Fried Chicken Sliders

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these scrumptious fried chicken sliders. I like to keep things simple and straightforward, so everything is easy to find at your local grocery store!

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
1 cup buttermilk, this is key for flavor and tenderness!
1 cup all-purpose flour, for that perfect crispy coating
1 tsp paprika, adds a lovely color and subtle spice
1 tsp garlic powder, because who doesn’t love garlic?
1 tsp onion powder, it really enhances the flavor
1/2 tsp salt, adjust to your taste
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked is best!
6 slider buns, soft and fluffy
Lettuce leaves, for that fresh crunch
Pickles, because they add the perfect tang!
Your favorite sauce, I recommend something zesty or spicy!

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create something absolutely delicious. Don’t worry if you can’t find chicken thighs; you can totally use chicken breasts instead! Just make sure to marinate them in that buttermilk for the best results. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Fried Chicken Sliders

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these delightful fried chicken sliders! I promise, it’s easier than you might think, and the result is absolutely worth it. Follow along with these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to slider heaven!

Marinating the Chicken

First things first, you’re going to want to marinate those chicken thighs in buttermilk. This step is crucial because buttermilk adds flavor and makes the chicken super tender. Just place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Make sure they’re all nicely coated! Cover it up and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you can swing it, letting it sit overnight really amps up the flavor. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Coating the Chicken

Now, let’s move on to the fun part—coating the chicken! In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend is going to give your chicken that extra kick! Once it’s all combined, take each piece of marinated chicken and dredge it in the flour mixture. Make sure to coat it evenly; you want every bite to be crispy and flavorful. Give it a little shake to remove any excess flour before frying. Oops, don’t forget to preheat your oil while you’re coating the chicken!

Frying the Chicken

Time to fry! Heat your oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking—around 350°F (175°C) is perfect. To test if it’s ready, drop a little bit of the flour mixture in; if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them, and use a meat thermometer if you have one—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). And remember, safety first! Watch out for any splatters while frying!

Assembling the Sliders

Finally, it’s time to assemble those sliders! Grab your soft slider buns and start with a crispy piece of fried chicken. Layer on a fresh lettuce leaf, add a few pickles for that tangy crunch, and drizzle your favorite sauce on top. I like to use a zesty mayo or spicy sauce, but feel free to get creative! Top it off with the other half of the bun, and there you have it—your delicious fried chicken slider is ready to devour! I swear, each bite is going to be a flavor explosion. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why these fried chicken sliders are going to steal the show at your next meal or party! They’re not just delicious; they come with a whole bunch of perks that make them a must-try. Here’s why I’m absolutely obsessed with this recipe:

Quick Preparation: With just a little marinating time and a quick fry, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Great for Parties: Whether it’s game day, a BBQ, or a casual get-together, these sliders are always a hit. They’re easy to share, and everyone loves grabbing one (or two!).
Customizable: The best part? You can mix and match toppings and sauces to suit everyone’s tastes. From spicy to tangy, the options are endless!
Delicious: Seriously, every bite is a flavor-packed experience! The crispy chicken with fresh toppings and a soft bun—it’s comfort food at its finest.

So, if you’re looking for a recipe that ticks all the boxes, you’ve found it right here! Trust me, once you try these fried chicken sliders, you’ll have a new favorite dish in your repertoire.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s chat about how to make your fried chicken sliders absolutely perfect! I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that will help you achieve that crispy, flavorful chicken every time. Let’s dive in!

Heat the Oil Properly: This is key! Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy. Aim for around 350°F (175°C). A simple test? Drop a pinch of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go!
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying in batches is the way to go! If you add too much chicken at once, the temperature of the oil will drop, and you won’t get that nice, crispy texture. Give each piece a little room to breathe!
Season to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning in the flour mixture to suit your palate. Want it spicier? Add some cayenne pepper! Love herbs? Try mixing in some dried oregano or thyme for an extra flavor boost.
Use a Meat Thermometer: This tip is super handy! For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You’re looking for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat and super juicy!
Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, let your chicken sit on paper towels for a minute or two. This helps drain excess oil and keeps the coating crispy. Nobody likes soggy sliders!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the best fried chicken sliders ever! Happy cooking, and enjoy every crispy, delicious bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, before you dive into those delicious fried chicken sliders, let’s chat about the nutritional info! It’s always nice to know what you’re munching on, right? Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per slider:

Calories: 300
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 15g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and how you prepare the sliders. But hey, with all that tasty goodness packed into these little guys, I’d say they’re worth every bite! Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to something delicious!

FAQ About Fried Chicken Sliders

Got questions about making the perfect fried chicken sliders? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I get, along with my trusty answers to help you along the way:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just remember that chicken thighs have a bit more fat, which gives them a juicier result. But chicken breasts will still turn out delicious—just be sure to marinate them just as you would the thighs for that tenderness!

What sauces work best?

The sky’s the limit here! I love using a zesty mayo or a spicy sriracha sauce for a little kick. BBQ sauce is also a classic choice, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try a honey mustard or buffalo sauce for something different. You can even set up a little slider bar with various sauces so guests can customize their own!

How can I make these sliders spicier?

If you want to crank up the heat, there are a few ways to do it! First, you can add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicy coating. Another option is to use a spicy sauce, like buffalo sauce, when assembling the sliders. And if you’re really daring, toss in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick! Wow, they’ll be a flavor explosion!

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

While I recommend frying them fresh for the best texture, you can prep the chicken and marinate it the day before. Just keep it covered in the fridge. Then, when it’s time to eat, you can quickly fry them up! You could even fry them in advance and reheat them in the oven to keep them crispy.

What can I serve with these sliders?

Oh, I love this question! These sliders pair perfectly with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them at a party alongside chips and dips for a fun spread. Just imagine a whole table full of deliciousness—everyone will be coming back for seconds!

So there you have it! I hope this answers your questions and gets you even more excited to make some incredible fried chicken sliders. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made these scrumptious fried chicken sliders and have some leftovers? Lucky you! Storing them properly is key to keeping that deliciousness intact. Here’s how I do it:

First, let the sliders cool down to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation inside your storage container, which can make the buns soggy. Once they’re cool, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, the sooner you eat them, the better they’ll taste!

Now, when it comes time to reheat those little beauties, you want to do it right to keep that crispy texture. I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sliders on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. You can even remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the buns again—yum!

If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works in a pinch, but be cautious! Microwaving can make the buns a bit chewy. If you go this route, heat them in 30-second increments on a microwave-safe plate, checking after each interval to avoid overcooking.

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll enjoy your fried chicken sliders just as much the next day! Happy munching!

fried chicken sliders - detail 1

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. If you’re interested in the health benefits of chicken, you can read more about it here.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.