Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders: The Ultimate Recipe Guide
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into slider-sized portions (about 2–3 inches square)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 slider buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese, quartered (or 16 small squares)
- Lettuce leaves, for topping (optional)
- Sliced tomatoes, for topping (optional)
- Pickle chips, for topping (optional)
- Prepare the Chicken Pieces: Cut chicken breasts into slider-sized portions (2-3 inches square, 1/2 inch thick). Butterfly thick breasts for thinner pieces.
- Set up the Breading Station: In three shallow dishes, prepare:nnDish 1: Flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.nDish 2: Beaten eggs.nDish 3: Panko breadcrumbs.
- Dish 1: Flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Dish 2: Beaten eggs.
- Dish 3: Panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in flour mixture, then beaten eggs, then panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently.
- Rest the Breaded Chicken: Let breaded chicken rest for 10-15 minutes on a plate or baking sheet.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil (about 1/4 inch deep) over medium-high heat. Oil is ready when a breadcrumb sizzles and turns golden brown.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place chicken in hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165u00b0F (74u00b0C).
- Remove and Drain: Remove chicken with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Combine the Ingredients (Honey Mustard Sauce): In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Adjust to Taste (Honey Mustard Sauce): Adjust seasonings as needed. Add more honey for sweetness or apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
- Chill (Optional) (Honey Mustard Sauce): Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Buns: Lightly toast slider buns if desired.
- Spread the Sauce: Spread honey mustard sauce on both halves of each bun.
- Add the Chicken: Place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add Cheese (Optional): Place a quarter of a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Add lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickle chips.
- Top with the Bun: Place the top half of the slider bun on top of the toppings.
- Serve Immediately: Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and crispy.