Name: Delicious Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders for Joyful Gatherings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut into 2-3 inch pieces.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Extra virgin recommended.); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Regular paprika works for milder flavor.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Substitute with fresh minced garlic for intensity.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Use fresh chopped onions if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Thyme (Dried thyme can be used sparingly.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1/2 cup Maple Syrup (Honey or agave nectar can be alternatives.); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (White vinegar can be used if needed.); 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (Yellow mustard can be substituted.); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Soy sauce offers a similar flavor.); 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for a touch of spice.); 6 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon makes a lighter alternative.); 6 pieces Slider Buns (Choose gluten-free for dietary needs.); optional Brie Cheese (Cheddar is a great substitute, or omit for healthier choice.); 1 cup Arugula or Spinach (Any leafy greens can be used.)

In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to default to takeout, but my Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders prove that you can whip up something truly special in less time than it takes to wait for delivery. The magic lies in the combination of crispy bacon and marinated chicken, all drenched in a sticky maple glaze that’s simply irresistible! Not only is this recipe a quick meal, but it’s also family-friendly and open to your personal twist—choose your favorite meats, sauces, or even go gluten-free with the buns. Perfect for weeknight dinners or those game day gatherings, these sliders offer a delightful bite-sized escape that everyone will love. Are you ready to dive into this sweet and savory adventure? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Special?

Quick Meal: In just under an hour, you can whip up these delectable sliders, making them perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Endless Variations: Feel free to experiment with different meats, sauces, and toppings like Cowboy Butter Chicken for a fun twist or even grilled vegetables for a lighter option.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sliders, uniting the crispy crunch of bacon with tender chicken enveloped in a sweetly savory glaze.

Impress Your Guests: Serve these at your next game night or barbecue, and watch as everyone devours these flavorful bites!

Satisfying Textures: Each slider combines the crispness of bacon with the juiciness of marinated chicken, resulting in a multi-layered taste sensation.

With all these delightful features, it’s time to gather your ingredients and prepare a dish that will surely elevate your next meal!

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Ideal for slider-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking and tenderness.
Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and prevents sticking while cooking; choose extra virgin for a richer taste.
Smoked Paprika – Adds warmth and smokiness; regular paprika works if you prefer a milder flavor.
Garlic Powder – Provides aromatic depth; substitute with fresh minced garlic for more intensity.
Onion Powder – Complements savory notes; use finely chopped fresh onions to switch things up.
Thyme – Brings earthy notes to the marinade; dried thyme can be used sparingly in its place.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor; season to taste for balanced results.

For the Maple Glaze

Maple Syrup – The star of these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders, delivering the right amount of sweetness! Honey or agave nectar can be alternatives for different flavors.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds tanginess to balance out the sweetness; white vinegar can work if needed.
Dijon Mustard – Contributes acidity and depth; yellow mustard can be substituted for a milder kick.
Worcestershire Sauce – Boosts umami richness; soy sauce offers a similar flavor profile if necessary.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – A touch of spice to elevate flavor; leave out for milder sliders.

For Assembly

Bacon – Crunchy and savory, providing a satisfying layer; turkey bacon makes a lighter alternative.
Slider Buns – The perfect vessel for your ingredients, choose gluten-free buns for dietary needs!
Brie Cheese (optional) – Adds a creamy richness; cheddar is a great substitute or omit for a healthier choice.
Arugula or Spinach – Fresh greens for garnish, adding crunch and color; feel free to use any leafy greens on hand.

With these simple yet versatile ingredients, you’re ready to create delicious Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders that will delight your family and friends!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by cutting boneless skinless chicken breasts into 2-3 inch pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl, allowing room for marinating. This prep sets the stage for your delicious Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders that everyone will adore.

Step 2: Marinate
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they’re generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; for deeper flavor, consider marinating overnight.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of olive oil once hot. Cook the marinated chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. They should turn golden brown and be juicy, perfect for your sliders.

Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a saucepan, combine maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes if using. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy, creating the sweet coating for your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders.

Step 5: Cook Bacon
While your glaze simmers, crisp the bacon in a separate pan over medium heat. Cook until it reaches your desired crispiness, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, crumble or cut the bacon into smaller pieces, ready to add a crunchy layer to your flavorful sliders.

Step 6: Assemble Sliders
Optionally, toast slider buns lightly to enhance texture. Start layering by adding a touch of the maple glaze on the bottom bun, followed by a piece of chicken, another drizzle of the glaze, crumbled bacon, optional Brie cheese, and a handful of fresh arugula or spinach. Top with the other half of the bun and prepare for delicious bites!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your assembled Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders on a serving platter, ready to impress your guests or family. As everyone dives in, enjoy the blend of sweet and savory flavors in each bite, making these sliders a delightful addition to any gathering!

What to Serve with Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders?

Prepare to transform your meal into a delightful experience with perfectly paired sides and flavors.

Creamy Coleslaw: The cool crunch of coleslaw offsets the warm sliders beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these fries bring a hint of sweetness that complements the maple glaze wonderfully.
Garlic Green Beans: Quick sautéed green beans offer a vibrant, tender crunch, balancing the sliders’ richness while adding a pop of color to your plate.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The natural sweetness of corn enhances the sliders’ flavor, and a dash of lime and chili powder can give it a zesty lift.
Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil create a light and flavorful accompaniment, perfectly contrasting the savory chicken and bacon.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade offers a cool, citrusy balance to the savory and sweet profile of the sliders.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies that echo the sliders’ sweetness, making for a comforting dessert.

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own touch on these sliders and make them uniquely yours—let your creativity shine!

Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey for a lighter option while still packing in protein.
Pork Alternative: Use pulled pork instead of chicken for a smoky, hearty twist that’s absolutely satisfying.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap in grilled vegetables or black bean patties to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly without losing flavor.
Sweetener Change: Instead of maple syrup, try using honey or agave syrup for a different level of sweetness that complements the glaze wonderfully.
Heat It Up: Add sriracha or chopped jalapeños for an extra kick, balancing the sweetness with some heat.
Mustard Variation: Experiment with different types of mustard, such as spicy brown or whole grain, for a new flavor profile that surprises your palate.
Cheese Choices: Instead of brie, opt for a tangy blue cheese or creamy goat cheese, adding a whole new dimension of flavor.
Bun Options: Use lettuce wraps for a low-carb version, or try whole wheat or gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary needs.

With these delicious alternatives, you can easily create your own signature Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders! For more flavor inspiration, check out my Fiery Chicken Ramen or the delightful Ginger Soy Chicken. Let’s get experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Room Temperature: Store leftover sliders in a covered dish at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to maintain safety.

Fridge: Place any uneaten sliders in an airtight container, where they can be kept for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through for best results.

Freezer: If you want to store the sliders longer, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, oven-bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave for about 1-2 minutes on high, ensuring that the Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are warmed evenly.

Expert Tips for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Marinate Wisely: Ensure chicken marinates for at least 30 minutes. This enhances flavor and tenderness—don’t rush this step!
Cook Bacon Perfectly: For evenly crisp bacon, consider baking it in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes. It’s easier and less messy.
Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting the slider buns adds a delightful crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy with the glaze.
Customize Your Sliders: Feel free to swap in different ingredients, such as turkey bacon or gluten-free buns, to suit dietary preferences while enjoying these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders.

Make Ahead Options

Meal prep is a breeze with these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply whisk together your marinade ingredients, toss the chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate. The maple glaze can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently before assembling the sliders. Additionally, you can cook the bacon ahead of time for ease—store it in the refrigerator and crisp it up briefly in the oven before serving. Once you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the marinated chicken and assemble; this way, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal last-minute effort!

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken for the sliders?
Absolutely! When picking chicken breasts, ensure they’re firm and have a mild smell. Look for pieces with a pink hue and avoid any with dark spots or discoloration. Fresh chicken will yield the juiciest sliders!

How can I store leftover Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders?
After enjoying your sliders, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve got a few extras, you can also store them at room temperature for no more than 2 hours for safety.

Can I freeze Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders?
Yes, you can! For best results, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if the chicken turns out dry after cooking?
No worries! Chicken can become dry if it’s overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F, and consider marinating the chicken longer for added moisture and flavor. If your chicken is already dry, serving it with extra maple glaze can help bring back some moisture and flavor!

Are Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders suitable for gluten-free diets?
Very! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free slider buns. Additionally, check that your selected sauces like Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat. Enjoying these sliders worry-free is just a few ingredient swaps away!

How long can I keep leftover slider ingredients in the fridge?
For optimal freshness, store marinated chicken in the fridge for up to 1 day. The marinade will keep the chicken flavorful. Cooked bacon can also last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Ensure everything is stored in airtight containers for best results!