Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sweet, smoky scent of grilling chicken wafts through the air, instantly transforming any outdoor setting into a cozy, delicious celebration. That’s exactly how I felt when I first made these Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders with Creamy Garlic Sauce. This recipe marries the juicy tenderness of grilled chicken thighs with a sticky honey chipotle sauce and a crunchy slaw, all cradled in a buttery brioche bun. Not only are these sliders perfect for game day appetizers or casual gatherings, but they also come together in no time, making them a great choice for busy weeknights. With vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, they’re bound to be a hit at your table. Curious about how to whip up these delightful sliders yourself? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Sliders a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with a delicious contrast of sweet and smoky tastes, elevating your traditional slider experience. Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these sliders in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Crowd Pleaser: These sliders are a game day sensation, sure to impress family and friends at any gathering. Versatile Options: Feel free to mix up the toppings or sauces to tailor them to your taste; add avocado for creaminess or jalapeños for a spicy kick! Ultimate Comfort Food: The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy slaw, and soft brioche buns make for comfort food perfection in every bite. Want more delicious chicken recipes? Don’t miss out on my Honey Butter Chicken or Oven Baked Chicken Thighs. Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Ingredients For the Chicken Sliders • Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – The juiciest option for sliders; ensure they’re pounded to an even thickness for even grilling. • Olive Oil – Helps prevent sticking on the grill and boosts flavor. • Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning, helping to elevate the chicken’s natural taste. • Black Pepper – Adds a gentle heat and depth to your chicken. For the Honey Chipotle Sauce • Honey – The star ingredient of the sauce, providing that irresistible sweetness. • Chipotle Peppers in Adobo – Delivers smoky heat; adjust the amount for your desired spice in these Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders. • Ketchup – Balances acidity and sweetness, creating a robust sauce base. For the Slaw • Green Cabbage – Adds crunch and freshness to the sliders. • Purple Cabbage – Introduces a splash of color and additional crunch. • Shredded Carrots – Sweetens the slaw and contributes to the crunch factor. • Mayonnaise – Creamy base for the slaw dressing. • Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy lift to the slaw, brightening the flavors. • Sugar – Balances out the tanginess with a hint of sweetness. For the Creamy Garlic Sauce • Sour Cream – Adds richness; a crucial component of the creamy garlic topping. • Milk – Helps to thin the sauce for easy drizzling. • Garlic – Provides a fragrant punch to the sauce; use fresh for the best flavor. For Serving • Brioche Slider Buns – Offers a soft, buttery cradle for your sliders; toasting them makes a big difference! • Unsalted Butter – Use this for toasting the buns to enhance their flavor and prevent sogginess. Get ready to impress with these flavorful Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Coleslaw In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. Add in the shredded green and purple cabbage, along with shredded carrots. Toss everything together until well combined, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld. Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce In another bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once well combined, set the creamy garlic sauce aside at room temperature, allowing the flavors to develop while you continue with the recipe. Step 3: Cook the Honey Chipotle Sauce In a small saucepan, combine honey, chipotle peppers in adobo, and ketchup over medium heat. Stir frequently, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken for about 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning; once it coats the back of a spoon, remove the saucepan from heat and set aside to cool slightly. Step 4: Grill the Chicken Thighs Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, brush the boneless skinless chicken thighs with olive oil and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Grill the thighs for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, and you see a nice char on the surface. Step 5: Coat Chicken in Sauce Once grilled, transfer the chicken thighs to a large bowl. Pour the warm honey chipotle sauce over the chicken, tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated. This sticky glaze will bring the perfect balance of sweet and spicy to your Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders. Step 6: Toast the Buns While the chicken rests, melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cut the brioche slider buns in half and place them cut-side down in the skillet. Toast for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, allowing the buttery flavor to infuse the bread, and giving your sliders a sturdy base. Step 7: Assemble Sliders To build your sliders, place a generous portion of the honey chipotle chicken on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with a scoop of the creamy coleslaw and drizzle on the creamy garlic sauce for added flavor. Finally, finish with the bun tops slightly ajar, and get ready to sink your teeth into these delightful Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders! Storage Tips for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them flavorful and juicy. Coleslaw: Keep the creamy coleslaw in a separate airtight container for up to 4 days for optimal crunch and freshness. Buns: If you have leftover toasted brioche buns, store them in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their texture. Reheating: Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on a stovetop for best results; serve it warm on fresh buns for a delightful slider experience. Make Ahead Options These Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders are perfect for busy cooks looking to make mealtime easier! You can prepare the creamy coleslaw and the creamy garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate each in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Additionally, grill the chicken thighs and coat them in the honey chipotle sauce up to 24 hours ahead; simply store them covered in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, toast the brioche buns, and assemble your sliders. This way, you’ll savor the same delicious flavors with minimal effort, saving precious time on hectic nights! Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these sliders to suit your mood and taste! Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for breasts for a leaner version, but be cautious not to overcook them. Chicken breasts tend to be drier, so marinating them in the honey chipotle sauce before grilling can help keep them juicy and flavorful. Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices to the sliders for an extra layer of heat. This spicy addition brings vibrant flavors and a nice crunch, perfect for those who crave that fiery burst. Creamy Avocado: Top your sliders with fresh avocado slices for added creaminess. The smooth texture of avocado complements the spicy and sweet notes beautifully, creating a perfect balance. Smoky BBQ Sauce: Trade the honey chipotle sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce for a different take. This variation lends a robust flavor, perfectly suited for BBQ lovers looking for a twist! Bun Alternatives: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free buns to cater to dietary preferences. These options offer a healthier twist without compromising on taste, adding more options for everyone. Pickled Veggies: Add pickled red onions or cucumbers for tangy brightness. This vibrant addition enhances flavor complexity and gives an exciting crunch to each bite of the sliders. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the coleslaw for an aromatic boost. Not only do they add lovely color, but they also elevate the overall freshness and flavor profile of the dish! Southern Style: Serve the sliders with a side of crispy fried pickles for a fun Southern-inspired combo. The contrast of flavors will surely melt hearts and spice things up at any gathering. For more inspiration, don’t forget to check out my White Chicken Chili for a cozy meal or give my Hot Honey Chicken a try for another delightful twist. Expert Tips for Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Grill Marks: Ensure your grill is preheated to achieve those beautiful grill marks, enhancing both flavor and presentation. Sauce Consistency: For the best honey chipotle sauce, monitor the heat while simmering; it should be thick enough to coat the chicken without burning. Spice Balance: Adjust the quantity of chipotle peppers to find your perfect spice level; remember that a little goes a long way in these sliders. Resting Chicken: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before coating it in the sauce; this helps retain juices and maintains tenderness. Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness; consume within a few days. What to Serve with Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders The perfect meal begins with beautiful flavor pairings that enhance the magic of your delicious sliders. Sweet Potato Fries: Their crispy exterior and sweet flavor provide a delightful contrast to the spicy sliders. Dunking them in the honey chipotle sauce makes it even better! Refreshing Cucumber Salad: The cool crunch of cucumber salad balances the heat of the sliders. Toss with fresh herbs and a splash of vinegar for a bright, refreshing dish. Creamy Mac and Cheese: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food! The rich creaminess of mac and cheese complements each bite of the sweet and spicy sliders beautifully. Grilled Corn on the Cob: This classic summer side adds a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. Brush with butter and sprinkle with chili powder for a festive finish. Zesty Coleslaw: A fresh take on the slaw used in the sliders. Add diced apples for sweetness and lime juice for tartness to enhance the flavor profile. Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink is a great way to cleanse the palate between bites, cutting through the richness of the sliders. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal with a classic dessert! The warm, gooey sweetness of cookies wonderfully contrasts the spicy flavors of the sliders. Peach Iced Tea: A sweet, fruity drink that pairs nicely with the sliders, offering a refreshing sip that complements their smoky flavor. These pairings not only round out the meal but also elevate the experience, making your Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders even more memorable! Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe avocados for my sliders? Absolutely! When selecting avocados, look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid any with dark spots all over or that feel overly soft, as they may be overripe. A ripe avocado will have a slightly firm exterior but yields a little when pressed. How should I store leftovers of the Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders? For the chicken, store leftover pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy coleslaw can be refrigerated separately in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring it stays fresh and crunchy. Can I freeze the cooked chicken for later use? Yes! To freeze the Honey Chipotle Chicken, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer bag with as much air removed as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. What can I do if the honey chipotle sauce is too thick? If your honey chipotle sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth gradually while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. If you’re in a pinch, adding a splash more ketchup can also revive the sauce! Are these sliders safe for pets? While the Honey Chipotle Chicken itself is generally safe for dogs, remember to keep them away from the honey chipotle sauce due to the presence of chipotle peppers, which can upset their stomach. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet. How can I make these sliders gluten-free? To make the Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders gluten-free, simply use gluten-free buns in place of brioche slider buns. Additionally, check that your ketchup and other condiments are gluten-free. Enjoy a delicious gluten-free version that everyone can savor! Irresistible Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders for Game Day Fun These Honey Chipotle Chicken Sliders combine grilled chicken thighs with a delightful sauce for an irresistible game day appetizer. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 8 slidersCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Sliders2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Pounded to an even thickness2 tablespoons Olive Oil For grilling1 teaspoon Kosher Salt For seasoning1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper To tasteFor the Honey Chipotle Sauce1/2 cup Honey Star ingredient2 tablespoons Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Adjust for spice level1/4 cup Ketchup For sweetness and acidity balanceFor the Slaw2 cups Green Cabbage Shredded1 cup Purple Cabbage Shredded1 cup Shredded Carrots1/2 cup Mayonnaise For slaw dressing2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar For tang1 tablespoon Sugar To balance acidityFor the Creamy Garlic Sauce1/2 cup Sour Cream For creaminess2 tablespoons Milk To thin the sauce2 cloves Garlic MincedFor Serving8 buns Brioche Slider Buns For sliders2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For toasting the buns Equipment GrillMixing BowlSaucepanSkilletwhisk Method PreparationPrepare the Creamy Coleslaw: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Add green and purple cabbage and carrots; toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, and garlic in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper; set aside.Cook the Honey Chipotle Sauce: In a saucepan, combine honey, chipotle peppers, and ketchup over medium heat. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened.Grill the Chicken Thighs: Preheat grill to medium-high. Brush chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.Coat Chicken in Sauce: Toss grilled chicken in the warm honey chipotle sauce until evenly coated.Toast the Buns: Melt butter in a skillet, cut buns in half and toast in the skillet until golden.Assemble Sliders: Layer honey chipotle chicken, creamy coleslaw, and creamy garlic sauce on the buns and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1sliderCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg NotesAdjust spice levels in the sauce and toppings to your preference. Store leftovers appropriately for the best experience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
