Savory Grilled Chicken Sliders: A Perfect BBQ Delight

Ingredients

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
16 slider buns
8 slices of cheddar cheese, halved
1 cup of mayonnaise
2 cups shredded lettuce
1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
16 slices of dill pickles

Steps and instructions

In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, ground black pepper, and salt.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to ensure they are fully coated in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least one hour, or ideally overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-8 minutes each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. In the last 2 minutes of grilling, add a half slice of cheddar cheese on each chicken thigh and allow it to melt.
While the chicken is grilling, slice the slider buns in half and lightly toast them on the grill.
To assemble the sliders, spread a tablespoon of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Then add a layer of shredded lettuce, a slice of grilled chicken with melted cheese, a couple of onion slices, and a pickle slice. Cover with the top half of the bun.
Repeat this process until all the sliders are assembled.
Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tools for making

Grill - You will need a grill to cook the chicken thighs.
Tongs - Use tongs to flip the chicken thighs on the grill.
Bowl - A bowl is needed to mix the marinade ingredients.
Measuring cups - Use measuring cups to accurately measure the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons - Use measuring spoons to measure the minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, ground black pepper, and salt.
Knife - A knife will be needed to slice the slider buns, onions, and pickles.
Cutting board - Use a cutting board to safely chop the onions and pickles.
Grill brush - You may need a grill brush to clean the grill grates before cooking.
Spatula - A spatula can be useful for transferring the grilled chicken thighs to a serving plate.
Plates and napkins - You will need plates and napkins for serving and enjoying the grilled chicken sliders.

Recipe variations

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs.
Replace the olive oil with avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor.
Add a teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Try using different types of cheese such as pepper jack, Swiss, or provolone.
Instead of grilling, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled or roasted portobello mushrooms.
Add sliced avocado or bacon as additional toppings.
Experiment with different types of buns, such as pretzel buns, ciabatta rolls, or whole wheat buns.
Include some sliced bell peppers or jalapenos for added flavor and texture.
Create a marinade using different herbs and spices, such as Italian seasoning, cajun seasoning, or curry powder.

Recipe overview

Get ready for a delicious bite-sized treat with these Grilled Chicken Sliders. Perfect for appetizers, parties, or a fun family meal, these sliders pack a punch of flavor in every bite. The chicken is marinated in a savory mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Served on toasted slider buns with crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a slather of mayonnaise, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is easy to follow and allows for a lot of flexibility - adjust the toppings to your liking or make the chicken ahead of time for easy assembly when it's time to eat. So fire up the grill, and let's get started on these mouth-watering Grilled Chicken Sliders.

Common questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly, as chicken breasts may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I grill the chicken sliders indoors? Absolutely! If you don't have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan or a skillet on the stovetop to cook the chicken sliders.
Can I make the marinade in advance? Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to mix it well before adding the chicken.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Of course! While cheddar cheese adds a delicious flavor, you can swap it with your favorite cheese, such as Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack.
Can I use a different type of bun? Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of slider buns you prefer, such as brioche, potato, or whole wheat.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time? While the sliders taste best when served immediately, you can assemble them ahead of time and wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then heat them in the oven or on the grill before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Grill - To cook the chicken thighs.
Tongs - For flipping and handling the chicken on the grill.
Bowl - To mix and marinate the chicken thighs.
Measuring cups - For accurate measurement of ingredients.
Grill brush - To clean the grill before and after use.
Knife - For slicing the slider buns and red onions.
Cutting board - To provide a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Spatula - To remove the chicken from the grill.
Plates and napkins - For serving and enjoying the sliders.

Origin stories

The slider, a small sandwich beloved by many, primarily made its culinary debut through the White Castle fast-food chain in the 1920s in the United States. However, the chicken version of sliders, like these grilled chicken sliders, are a relatively new innovation. They offer a healthier and often more flavorful alternative to the traditional beef patty. What's fascinating is that although the term "slider" originated from the U.S. Navy, where it was used to describe greasy burgers that slid down easily, today's sliders, especially gourmet versions like this one, have significantly evolved and are now a staple in many high-end restaurants and family barbecues alike. They are admired for their convenience and versatility, being perfect for both a small snack or for feeding a large crowd at a gathering.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.