Few things bring people together like a plate of crispy, juicy fried chicken, especially when it’s tucked into soft, flavorful buns. Fried chicken sliders take that classic combo and miniaturize it into a snackable, shareable form that’s ideal for game days, casual dinners, or weekend gatherings. Think golden chicken, bold toppings, and pillowy rolls in every bite.
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What Are Fried Chicken Sliders?
Fried chicken sliders are compact sandwiches that deliver all the satisfaction of a full-size fried chicken sandwich in a smaller, snack-friendly format. Typically made with bite-sized cuts of chicken that are breaded, fried until crispy, and loaded onto slider buns, these little sandwiches are big on flavor. They’re endlessly customizable and easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients for Fried Chicken Sliders (Makes 10 sliders)
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound of chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into slider-sized portions
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for added heat)
For the Coating:
- 1½ cups plain all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for light, crispy texture)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
For Frying:
- Neutral oil, like canola or vegetable (enough to cover the chicken in a deep skillet)
For Assembling the Sliders:
- 10 mini sandwich buns (such as Hawaiian rolls or soft brioche sliders)
- 10 pickle slices
- 1 cup tangy slaw (optional)
- 1/2 cup of your favorite spread (spicy mayo, chipotle aioli, or honey butter)
How to Make Fried Chicken Sliders
1. Marinate the Chicken
Combine chicken pieces with buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne in a bowl. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated, then cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
2. Prepare the Dredge Mixture
Blend the flour, cornstarch, seasonings, and spices in a wide, shallow dish until evenly distributed. This will serve as your coating for the chicken.
3. Coat the Chicken
Shake off any excess marinade from each piece of chicken before breading. Press each piece firmly into the dry mix, turning to ensure every part is coated in a thick, even layer. Set coated pieces aside on a plate or rack while you heat your oil.
4. Fry the Chicken
In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry a few pieces at a time, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3–5 minutes per batch, depending on thickness, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it’s golden brown and registers 165°F (74°C) internally.
5. Toast the Slider Buns
Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut side of each bun. Place them cut-side down in a skillet over medium heat and cook until lightly browned and crisp—this adds texture and prevents sogginess when you add sauce.
6. Assemble Your Sliders
On each toasted bun bottom, layer a piece of fried chicken, a dollop of sauce, a pickle slice, and slaw if desired. Cap it with the top bun and secure with a toothpick if needed.
Slider Variations Worth Trying
Nashville-Style Hot Sliders
Toss freshly fried chicken in a spicy cayenne oil and layer it with creamy slaw to balance the heat.
🇰🇷 Korean-Style Sliders
Coat the chicken in a sweet, spicy gochujang glaze and top with kimchi or sesame slaw.
Buffalo Ranch Sliders
Drizzle buffalo sauce over the chicken and serve with blue cheese crumbles or ranch dressing.
Garlic Parmesan Style
Skip the heat and instead toss your chicken in melted garlic butter with grated Parmesan.
What Goes Well with Fried Chicken Sliders Recipe?
Looking to build a meal around your sliders? Here are some classic pairings:
- On the Side: A scoop of vinegar-based slaw, thick-cut fries, loaded potato wedges, or creamy mac and cheese complement the richness of fried chicken.
- To Drink: Try a glass of iced sweet tea, a hoppy craft beer, sparkling lemonade, or a tangy citrus soda to cut through the richness.
- Dipping Sauces: Honey mustard, ranch, sriracha mayo, and classic BBQ sauce are all excellent additions.
Looking for Healthier Options?
If you’re trying to cut back on fried food, you can still enjoy the essence of a slider:
- Air-Fried: Prep the chicken the same way and cook in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once for even crispiness.
- Baked Alternative: Lay breaded chicken on a parchment-lined tray and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Lighter Buns: Swap white buns for whole grain or lettuce wraps.
- Lean Cuts: Opt for skinless chicken breast or tenderloins instead of thighs.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you happen to make more sliders than your crowd can handle, here’s how to save them:
- Refrigeration: Store the fried chicken separately from the buns and toppings in sealed containers. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat chicken in a preheated oven or air fryer to help restore its crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving as it softens the coating.
- Assembly Tip: Add fresh buns and toppings just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Chicken Sliders
What’s the best cut of chicken for sliders?
Chicken thighs are ideal because they stay juicy during frying. However, breast strips or tenderloins work well too.
How do I maintain the crispiness after frying?
Place fried chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet as it cools. This prevents it from steaming and turning soggy, unlike when using paper towels.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes. You can fry the chicken in advance and toast the buns ahead. Assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What sauces pair best with chicken sliders?
Popular options include spicy mayo, honey butter, ranch, BBQ, or chipotle aioli. Don’t be afraid to get creative.
Can I freeze cooked sliders?
You can freeze the chicken pieces after frying. Let them cool, wrap them tightly, and freeze. Reheat in the oven for the best texture. Avoid freezing assembled sliders.
Final Thoughts
Fried chicken sliders are the ultimate way to enjoy bold, comforting flavors in a compact, shareable form. Whether you like them hot and spicy or sweet and savory, they’re endlessly adaptable and always satisfying. Best of all, they’re fun to make and even more fun to eat.
You’ll also find helpful links to inspire other fun dessert ideas from Freshly Made Recipes, such as their homemade strawberry ice cream.