Indulge in Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders for Your Next Feast

What Are Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders?

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are the ultimate flavor fusion, blending the sweet and smoky notes of maple syrup with the irresistible combination of juicy chicken and crispy bacon. These mini sandwiches are the perfect bite-sized indulgence, making them a hit for any gathering or casual meal.

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Why These Sliders Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are incredibly versatile, making them a crowd-pleasing option for everything from backyard barbecues and game day celebrations to cozy family dinners. The sweet and savory flavors appeal to a wide range of taste buds, while the small slider size allows guests to enjoy multiple bites without feeling overly full. Plus, these sliders come together quickly, so they’re perfect for last-minute meal planning or when you need an easy-to-assemble appetizer.

Ingredients for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into slider-sized portions (about 2-3 inches square)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Maple Bacon Glaze:

• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

For the Bacon:

• 1 lb thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled or cut into slider-sized pieces

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns
• 4 oz brie cheese, thinly sliced (optional)
• Arugula or baby spinach for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Chicken

In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Cook Chicken

Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside.

Make Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Glaze Chicken

Brush the cooked chicken pieces generously with the maple bacon glaze.

Assemble Sliders

Place the glazed chicken on the slider buns, top with crispy bacon pieces, brie slices (if using), and arugula or spinach.

Serve

Serve these warm and delectable Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders, perfect for sharing and enjoying at any gathering or casual meal.

Tips for the Perfect Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Choosing the Right Chicken

For the juiciest and most flavorful sliders, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cutting them into small, slider-sized portions ensures even cooking and a perfect bite-sized experience.

Bacon Tips for Extra Crunch

Cook the bacon until it’s crispy and crumbly, which will provide a satisfying texture contrast to the tender chicken and soft buns. You can also cut the cooked bacon into smaller pieces to ensure each slider gets a generous portion.

Enhancing the Flavor with Toppings

While the maple chicken and bacon combination is already a winning duo, adding a few optional toppings can take these sliders to the next level. Consider slices of creamy brie cheese or a handful of peppery arugula or baby spinach for a delightful flavor and textural balance.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Best Sides to Serve with Sliders

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them alongside crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh and zesty coleslaw, or a creamy macaroni and cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beverage Pairings for Your Sliders

For a classic pairing, serve these sliders with an ice-cold beer or a refreshing iced tea. For a more elevated experience, try pairing them with a bold red wine or a craft cocktail featuring maple or bacon flavors.

Variations of Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Spicy Maple Chicken Sliders

Add a kick of heat to your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders by incorporating a spicy element, such as cayenne pepper or sriracha, into the maple glaze. This will create a delightful contrast between the sweet and the spicy.

Vegetarian Options

For a meatless version, try substituting the chicken with grilled or roasted portobello mushrooms, which will provide a satisfying and flavorful alternative. You can still incorporate the maple bacon glaze and toppings for a delicious vegetarian option.

Creative Flavor Combinations

Experiment with different flavor profiles by swapping out the brie cheese for a tangy blue cheese or a sharp cheddar. You could also try adding pickled onions, a spicy aioli, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to keep sliders from getting soggy?

To prevent your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders from getting soggy, make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly and allow it to rest before glazing. The maple bacon glaze should be thick and sticky, not overly liquidy. Additionally, toast the slider buns before assembling to create a barrier against the moisture from the chicken and glaze.

How do you keep sliders warm before serving?

To keep your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders warm before serving, you can place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until ready to assemble and serve. Alternatively, you can use a slow cooker set to the “warm” setting to keep the glazed chicken pieces heated and ready to go.

What comes on a maple bacon chicken sandwich?

The classic maple bacon chicken sandwich typically includes a juicy grilled or fried chicken breast, crispy bacon, and a sweet and tangy maple glaze or spread. Some variations may also include cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, as well as toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion.

What to pair with chicken sliders?

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders pair exceptionally well with a variety of side dishes. Some delicious options include crispy sweet potato fries, a refreshing coleslaw, creamy macaroni and cheese, or a simple green salad. For beverages, these sliders complement both beer and craft cocktails featuring maple or bacon flavors.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Bacon Cheeseburger Loaded Mozzarella Stick Bombs
• BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Loaded Tots
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
• Million Dollar BBQ Bacon Cheese Dip

Conclusion

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and satisfying flavors, perfect for any occasion. With their irresistible maple glaze, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, these mini sandwiches are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick and easy meal, these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are a delicious choice that will leave your taste buds craving more.

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