Chicken Sliders with Slaw

Looking for a delightful handheld meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture? These Chicken Sliders with Slaw are a perfect choice! Juicy, seasoned ground chicken patties nestled inside soft slider buns, topped with a crisp, tangy slaw that adds the perfect crunch. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a satisfying snack, this recipe delivers big on taste with minimal fuss. Ready in just about 30 minutes, these sliders bring together simple ingredients for a deliciously balanced bite that everyone will love.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something universally appealing about sliders — their small size makes them perfect for sharing, and they’re easy to eat without utensils, making them a favorite at parties and family dinners alike. The ground chicken is seasoned just right with garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper, creating juicy patties that are packed with flavor. The homemade slaw, made from shredded cabbage and grated carrot, adds a refreshing crunch with a creamy, tangy dressing that complements the savory chicken beautifully. Plus, the addition of crisp lettuce leaves keeps the sliders light and fresh. This recipe strikes a wonderful balance between comfort food and fresh, bright flavors, making it a guaranteed hit for any occasion.

Shopping List

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slider buns
• 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Lettuce leaves for serving (butter lettuce or romaine works well)

Must-Have Equipment

• Mixing bowls – for combining the slaw ingredients and seasoning the chicken
• Grater – to grate the carrot finely for the slaw
• Non-stick skillet or grill pan – for cooking the chicken patties evenly
• Spatula – to flip the sliders gently without breaking
• Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure accurate seasoning and dressing ratios

Method: Chicken Sliders with Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Slaw

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrot. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the chicken patties to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Season the Ground Chicken

Place the ground chicken in a large bowl. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Divide the seasoned ground chicken into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small, flat patty about the size of your slider buns. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing up during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Patties

Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken patties. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the patties are golden brown on the outside. Remove from heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Slice the slider buns in half and lightly toast them if desired. On the bottom half of each bun, place a few fresh lettuce leaves, then add a chicken patty. Top with a generous spoonful of the prepared slaw, then crown with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the slaw dressing to reduce fat and add protein.
• Use whole wheat or multigrain slider buns for added fiber.
• Increase the cabbage and carrot quantities for a larger serving of veggies.
• Opt for extra-lean ground chicken to cut down on fat content.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Don’t press down on the chicken patties while cooking; this helps retain juiciness.
• If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the chicken seasoning.
• For an extra flavor boost, consider adding finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the slaw.
• The sliders pair beautifully with a side of sweet potato fries or crisp pickles.
• If you’re in the mood for something with a smoky barbecue twist, check out Baked Bbq Chicken Thighs or try the tangy Peach Bbq Pulled Chicken Sliders for another slider variation.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored to enjoy later. Keep the chicken patties and slaw separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to prevent the buns from becoming soggy. When ready to eat, reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave and assemble with fresh buns and lettuce. The slaw can be served cold or at room temperature.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and will produce a similar texture and flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly to the recommended internal temperature.

How can I make the slaw dressing lighter?

Replace the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette to reduce calories and fat while keeping the slaw creamy and flavorful.

Are these sliders freezer-friendly?

You can freeze cooked chicken patties for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling your sliders.

What side dishes go well with Chicken Sliders with Slaw?

These sliders pair wonderfully with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a fresh garden salad. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside pickled vegetables or a light corn salad.

Desserts to Finish

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – A timeless sweet treat to end your meal on a high note.
• Lemon Bars – Bright, tangy, and refreshing, perfect after savory sliders.
• No-Bake Cheesecake Bites – Creamy, easy, and no oven required.
• Fresh Berry Crisp – Warm, comforting, and packed with seasonal fruit.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered these juicy Chicken Sliders with Slaw, it’s time to get creative. Try experimenting with different slaw variations—perhaps adding a touch of jalapeño for heat or swapping cabbage for crunchy jicama. For a saucier option, drizzle your sliders with a homemade spicy mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce. Don’t forget to explore other easy chicken recipes to add variety to your dinner rotation.

Treat your taste buds and impress your guests with this simple yet satisfying recipe. Whether for a weekend gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, these sliders are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe arsenal. Enjoy every bite of your delicious creation!

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