Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders are a delightful twist on classic sliders, perfect for parties, game days, or any casual gathering. These sliders boast a crispy chicken thigh, marinated in buttermilk, topped with a sweet and spicy honey butter sauce. They’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors and mouthwatering texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of spicy chicken and sweet honey butter creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
- Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip these sliders up in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, these sliders fit right in.
- Customizable Toppings: Add pickles, jalapeños, or your favorite sauces for a personalized touch.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweetness of the honey butter makes these sliders appealing to kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother. Here are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or deep frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: It provides even heat distribution, making it ideal for frying crispy chicken.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating and mixing ingredients without any mess.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Honey Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
For Assembling
- Slider buns
- Pickles (for topping)
- Sliced jalapeños (for garnish)
How to Make Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with buttermilk. Make sure they are well coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Dredge each marinated chicken thigh in the flour mixture until fully coated. Fry them in batches until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes per side. Once done, drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in honey until fully combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Place fried chicken on slider buns. Drizzle generously with honey butter and top with pickles and sliced jalapeños as desired.
Step 6: Serve
Enjoy these delightful sliders warm with extra honey butter on the side for dipping!
How to Serve Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders
Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.
Classic Presentation
- Serve on a large platter for sharing at gatherings.
- Add toothpicks for easy handling, making them perfect for parties.
Dipping Sauces
- Offer a variety of sauces like ranch or spicy mayo on the side for dipping.
- A tangy barbecue sauce pairs well with the sweetness of the honey butter.
Garnishes
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the sliders for a pop of color.
- Add extra jalapeños for those who enjoy more heat.
Pair with Drinks
- Serve with sweet tea or lemonade to complement the spicy flavors.
- Consider craft beers or light lagers that balance the heat of the sliders.
How to Perfect Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders
Perfecting your Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders can elevate your dish to new heights. Here are some helpful tips.
- Marinate longer: For more flavor, marinate chicken thighs overnight in buttermilk.
- Control frying temperature: Make sure oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying to achieve a crispy coating.
- Use fresh spices: Freshly opened spices deliver better flavor than older jars.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding coleslaw or avocado for added texture and flavor.
- Adjust the heat: Modify cayenne pepper to suit your tolerance; less will still taste great.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy sliders right after assembling for the best taste and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders
Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders pair wonderfully with various sides that balance their rich flavors. Here are some great options.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that adds freshness to each bite of slider.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to the spicy sliders and are easy to make.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad complements the heat and makes for a hearty meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter enhances the Southern vibe of this dish.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy comfort food is always a hit alongside spicy dishes.
- Baked Beans: A hearty addition that adds smokiness and sweetness to your meal.
- Pickled Vegetables: Provide a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the sliders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to dry meat. Always marinate for at least an hour, or overnight for maximum flavor and moisture.
- Incorrect Oil Temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can result in greasy or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is between 350°F and 375°F for optimal frying.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once lowers the oil temperature. Fry in batches to keep the temperature consistent and achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Not Letting Chicken Rest: Cutting into hot chicken right after frying can cause juices to run out. Allow it to rest on paper towels for a few minutes to retain moisture.
- Forgetting the Honey Butter: Skipping this step means missing out on essential flavor. Don’t forget to drizzle honey butter generously on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders
- Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat sliders individually on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as it may make the bread tough.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sliders in the skillet and cover with a lid, warming them for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require extra marinating time since they can be drier than thighs. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What are some good sides to serve with Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders?
Pair these sliders with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
How spicy are Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders?
The spice level largely depends on how much cayenne pepper you use in the coating. Adjust it according to your taste preference!
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything ahead of time and assemble just before serving. This ensures freshness while saving time during mealtime.
Final Thoughts
Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders offer a delightful combination of spicy and sweet flavors that everyone will love. Their versatility allows you to customize toppings like cheese or different sauces according to personal taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners!
Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders
Nashville Hot Honey Butter Chicken Sliders bring a bold and irresistible flavor to the table, making them the perfect choice for gatherings, game days, or casual family dinners. These sliders feature crispy, marinated chicken thighs drizzled with a sweet and spicy honey butter sauce, all nestled between soft slider buns. With simple preparation steps and customizable toppings, these sliders are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and drinks for a complete meal experience!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 sliders 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- Slider buns
- Pickles (for topping)
- Sliced jalapeños (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Mix flour and spices in a bowl for coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet. Dredge marinated chicken in flour mixture and fry until golden brown (5-7 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
- Melt butter and mix with honey to create the sauce.
- Assemble sliders by placing fried chicken on buns, drizzling with honey butter, and adding desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (100g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Ensure oil is hot enough before frying for crispiness. Experiment with toppings like coleslaw or avocado for added texture.
