Description
Wichita Chicken Sliders are flavorful and easy-to-make mini sandwiches featuring juicy grilled or pan-seared chicken seasoned with a smoky and slightly spicy rub. Topped with creamy ranch or blue cheese sauce, cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, and optional pickles, these sliders are perfect for casual gatherings or game day snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken
- 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
For the 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 your grill or a skillet over medium heat to get ready for cooking the chicken evenly and safely.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts or thighs with olive oil, then season them thoroughly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, and salt and pepper to taste for a flavorful crust.
- Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips or pieces.
- Toast the Slider Buns: While the chicken rests, lightly toast the slider buns in the skillet or oven to add crispness and warmth that enhances texture and flavor.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the ranch or blue cheese dressing with hot sauce (if using) to create a creamy, tangy sauce that adds a spicy kick.
- Assemble the Sliders: Spread a generous layer of the prepared sauce on the bottom halves of the slider buns. Then layer on chicken slices, a slice of cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles if desired. Top with the remaining bun halves.
- Serve: Serve the sliders immediately while warm. Optionally, provide extra sauce on the side for dipping to enhance the flavor experience.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs for juicier sliders or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce quantities to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
- To make these sliders gluten-free, substitute slider buns with gluten-free rolls.
- Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Cheese can be swapped out for different varieties like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavor profiles.
