Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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)

Ingredients

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)

Instructions

Step 1: Cut chicken breasts into slider-sized portions about 2-3 inches square and 1/2 inch thick. Butterfly thicker pieces for even cooking.

Step 2: Set up three shallow dishes: Dish 1 with flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper; Dish 2 with beaten eggs; Dish 3 with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Dredge each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Let the breaded chicken rest on a plate or baking sheet for 10-15 minutes to help the coating set.

Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to about 1/4 inch deep. The oil is ready when a breadcrumb sizzles and turns golden.

Step 6: Fry chicken pieces carefully in the hot oil without overcrowding. Cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Remove chicken with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.

Step 8: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 9: Adjust the honey mustard sauce to taste—add more honey for sweetness or apple cider vinegar for extra tang if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes if time allows.

Step 10: Lightly toast the slider buns if desired. Spread honey mustard sauce on both halves of each bun.

Step 11: Place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Add a quarter slice of cheddar cheese on top of the chicken.

Step 12: Add optional toppings like lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickle chips.

Step 13: Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Tips & Variations

Butterfly thicker chicken pieces for more even cooking and a crispier crust.

Use spicy mustard or add hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce for extra heat.

Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a little spice.

Make sliders vegetarian by swapping chicken for crispy fried portobello mushrooms or cauliflower.

Serve with extra honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, for a healthier version, bake breaded chicken pieces at 425°F (220°C) on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, or ensure there is no pink inside and the juices run clear.