Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both quick and delicious, let me introduce you to my favorite Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders. These little bites of joy combine sweet maple-glazed chicken with crispy bacon, all nestled in soft slider buns. They are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something that everyone will love. I often whip these up when I have friends over, and they always leave raving about how tasty they are!

What makes this recipe special is not just the incredible flavor but also how easy it is to make. In under 35 minutes, you can have a delightful dinner on the table that feels fancy but requires minimal effort. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep work, these sliders fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes these sliders a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the chicken in advance, making it easy to assemble and serve later.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of maple syrup and Dijon mustard creates a mouth-watering glaze that elevates the dish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game day snack or a casual dinner party, these sliders are always a great choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s keep things simple with some wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create these Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders:

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sliders

• 6 slices bacon
• 6 slider buns
• 1 cup arugula

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or even plant-based alternatives for a different twist.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some sliced pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick!
• Change the greens: Instead of arugula, use spinach or lettuce for a fresher bite.
• Go gourmet: Add cheese like cheddar or gouda for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it adds flavor right from the start!

Step 2: Create the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup and Dijon mustard. This sweet-and-tangy glaze will bring life to your chicken as it cooks.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they get a nice golden color. Searing locks in moisture and creates that lovely caramelization.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Brush your seared chicken with the maple syrup mixture then transfer it to your preheated oven. Bake for around 10 minutes until fully cooked through—this ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Step 5: Cook the Bacon

While the chicken bakes, return to your skillet and cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, drain it on paper towels to remove excess grease. That crunch will perfectly complement your sliders!

Step 6: Slice the Chicken

Once out of the oven, let your chicken rest for a minute before slicing it into thin pieces. This helps keep those juices intact!

Step 7: Assemble Your Sliders

Now comes the fun part! On each slider bun, place a handful of arugula first, followed by a slice of chicken and topped with crispy bacon. Cap it off with the other half of the bun.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Your Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders are ready! Serve them immediately while they’re warm and enjoy every delicious bite with friends or family.

Pro Tips for Making Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders

Creating the perfect sliders is all about technique and a few little tricks that can take your dish from good to extraordinary!

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a bit of time, marinate the chicken in the maple syrup and Dijon mustard mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply, enhancing its taste.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check if your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures your chicken is juicy and perfectly cooked.
• Crisp the Bacon Just Right: Cook the bacon slowly over medium heat. This method allows the fat to render out gradually, resulting in crispy bacon without burning it.
• Toast the Buns: Lightly toast your slider buns in the oven or on a skillet until golden brown. This adds texture and helps prevent them from becoming soggy when filled with chicken and toppings.
• Experiment with Greens: While arugula adds a peppery flavor, feel free to experiment with other greens like spinach or kale. Each adds its unique taste and nutritional value to your sliders!

How to Serve Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders

These sliders are not just delicious; they also present beautifully! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this dish for your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top of your sliders for a pop of color and freshness.
• Pickled Red Onions: Add a few slices of pickled red onions for tanginess that balances the sweetness of the maple glaze.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a delightful sweetness that complements the sliders perfectly. Plus, they make for a healthier option compared to regular fries.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots tossed in a light dressing provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory sliders.
• Vegetable Chips: Homemade or store-bought vegetable chips offer a crunchy side that’s easy to prepare and adds color to your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly in vinaigrette offers a fresh balance to your meal.

Get ready for compliments as you serve these Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or weeknight dinner. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the sliders to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, assemble sliders without the arugula and store them in a freezer-safe container.
• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or foil for extra protection.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen sliders in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but keep an eye on them so they don’t get soggy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders.

Can I use other types of chicken for Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders?

Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders healthier?

To make these sliders healthier, consider using whole grain buns and adding more veggies like sliced tomatoes or cucumbers along with arugula.

What sides pair well with Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders?

These sliders go great with a simple side salad, sweet potato fries, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I prepare Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders for a crowd?

Yes! This recipe is easily scalable, so feel free to double or triple it to serve more people at your next gathering.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Maple Chicken & Bacon Sliders! They blend sweet and savory flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, these sliders will surely be a hit. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with this delightful recipe! Happy cooking!