The aroma of sizzling chicken wafts through the kitchen, instantly whisking me away to a bustling Nashville eatery. That’s the magic of these Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders, where juicy, spiced fried chicken meets a drizzle of sweet and fiery hot honey sauce. Each bite offers a delightful crunch, complemented by creamy Southern coleslaw and zesty pickles, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that captures the essence of Southern comfort food. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party treat, these sliders are not only a breeze to whip up but also a guaranteed hit among friends and family. Want to make your taste buds dance with this irresistible Southern classic? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these sliders a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of crispy fried chicken and a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
Quick and Easy: You don’t need to be a culinary expert; this straightforward recipe is perfect for home cooks and busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a game day gathering or a cozy family dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. Pair them with creamy Southern coleslaw or serve alongside flavorsome Garlic Chicken Gnocchi for the perfect meal!
Versatile Twist: Feel free to play with the spices or even try jalapeno pimento cheese for an extra kick!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the chicken ahead and quickly fry it up when you’re ready to serve, keeping your meal stress-free.
Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Slider Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders!
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Provides tender and juicy meat perfect for sliders.
• Buttermilk – Helps tenderize and flavor the chicken; you can substitute with regular milk if needed.
• Hot Sauce – Introduces the spice; choose your favorite for desired heat level.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a rich, smoky flavor; sweet paprika can be substituted if you’re in a pinch.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; opt for less regular table salt due to its finer grain.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives that irresistible crispy texture; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.
• Cayenne Pepper – Amp up the heat; reduce the amount for a milder flavor.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Elevate the flavor profile; fresh alternatives can be used but may alter amounts.
For Frying
• Canola Oil – Ideal for frying due to its neutral flavor; vegetable or peanut oil are good alternatives.
For the Hot Honey Sauce
• Honey – Brings sweetness to balance the heat; maple syrup can be a delightful substitute.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances the sweetness in the sauce; you can swap with white sugar if necessary.
• Cayenne Pepper – Reinforces spiciness in the sauce; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Smoked Paprika – Continues the smoky flavor from the chicken; versatile for your taste.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth to the sauce; fresh garlic can be an option with careful measurement.
For the Sliders
• Slider Rolls – The perfect buns for serving; choose soft rolls, or opt for whole grain/gluten-free if you prefer.
• Creamy Southern Coleslaw – Offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken; use your favorite recipe or store-bought.
• Pickle Slices – Provides that tangy crunch; pick your preference for a perfect finish!
Dig into these delightful Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Slider Sandwiches
Step 1: Brine the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry and cutting them in half for slider-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Submerge the chicken in this brine, ensuring all pieces are coated, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate mixing bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and additional kosher salt. This flavorful coating is essential for your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders, as it will deliver that signature crunch. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the chicken for frying.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Once the chicken has finished brining, remove it from the mixture and allow the excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating for a crispy texture. After coating, place the chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for about 10 minutes while you heat the oil.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat canola oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding, frying for about 6-8 minutes. Monitor closely until they become golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Sauce
In a bowl, combine cayenne pepper, honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a tablespoon of the hot frying oil you used for the chicken. Mix everything well until the sugar dissolves, creating a sweet and spicy glaze that will elevate your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders.
Step 6: Assemble Sliders
Now it’s time to bring your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders to life! Brush each piece of fried chicken generously with the hot honey sauce. Place the sauced chicken on soft slider rolls, topping them off with creamy Southern coleslaw and zesty pickle slices for a perfect contrast. Serve immediately for the best experience!
How to Store and Freeze Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders
Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to retain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken (without the sauce or toppings) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy crispy chicken again, reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes. Brush with hot honey sauce just before serving for that fresh flavor burst!
Expert Tips for Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders
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Choose Quality Meat: Opt for skinless, boneless chicken thighs for the juiciest results. Chicken breasts can be used, but thighs deliver better flavor and tenderness.
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Perfect the Brine: Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances its flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it’s vital for the best Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders!
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Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the frying oil reaches 350°F. If it’s too low, the chicken won’t crisp up; too high, and it may burn before cooking through.
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Drain and Rest: Transfer your fried chicken to a wire rack instead of paper towels. This keeps the sliders crisp and avoids sogginess from steam.
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Add Your Twist: For an extra kick, dip the fried chicken in hot honey sauce instead of brushing it on, making each bite even more flavorful!
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Serve Fresh: These sliders are best enjoyed immediately. Assemble just before serving to keep the rolls soft and the chicken crispy.
What to Serve with Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders
The sizzling sound of crispy chicken fills the air, complementing a feast that brings warmth and cheer to any gathering.
- Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort food pairs perfectly, with its rich, cheesy goodness balancing the sliders’ spiciness.
- Southern Collard Greens: The earthy flavors and slight bitterness of collard greens create a delightful contrast that enhances the meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries provide a satisfying texture and flavor balance alongside the spicy sliders.
- Classic Potato Salad: Cool and creamy, potato salad offers a refreshing side that complements the heat of the Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders beautifully.
- Honey Lemonade: A refreshing drink that echoes the sweet notes of the hot honey glaze, perfect for cooling down the palate.
- Pickle Chips: Serve additional crunchy, tangy pickles on the side to intensify that Southern flavor experience!
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a high note with warm, gooey cookies that bring comfort and nostalgia after spicy sliders.
Turn your meal into a joyous celebration with these delightful pairings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied!
Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Slider Variations
Make these sliders uniquely yours with these delightful twists and substitutions that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Lean Option: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a lighter choice that still packs flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeno pimento cheese to the slider for an extra creamy layer of heat—perfect for spice lovers!
- Bun Variety: Experiment with brioche or whole grain slider rolls to discover new textures and flavors.
- Sweet Alternatives: Swap honey for maple syrup in the hot honey sauce for a delicious twist that adds a hint of earthiness.
- Vegetarian Switch: Replace chicken with crispy fried eggplant or cauliflower for a tasty vegetarian slider that’s equally satisfying.
- Sauce Enhancer: Mix in a splash of apple cider vinegar in the hot honey sauce for a tangy edge that balances the sweetness.
- Herbed Delight: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of freshness that brightens each bite.
- Flavorful Additions: Customize your coleslaw by adding diced apples or raisins for a sweet crunch that enhances the flavor profile.
Feel inspired? Dive into the world of flavor by giving these variations a try and make your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders a hit!
Make Ahead Options
These Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can brine the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance; simply coat them in the buttermilk mixture and refrigerate. Additionally, you can mix the dry coating ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just dredge the brined chicken in the flour mixture, fry, and assemble your sliders with the hot honey sauce, coleslaw, and pickles. This way, you’ll enjoy crispy, flavorful sliders that are just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken thighs for my sliders?
Absolutely! Look for skinless, boneless chicken thighs with a good amount of marbling; that’s where the flavor and tenderness lie. If you see any dark spots or signs of freezer burn, skip those. Fresh, high-quality meat will make all the difference in your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders.
How should I store leftovers from this recipe?
To maintain freshness, store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing to avoid trapping steam, which can make it soggy. If stored correctly, you’ll have delicious remnants to enjoy later!
Can I freeze the chicken for later use?
Very! For freezing, let the cooked chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes for crispy goodness.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying?
If your chicken isn’t crispy, it could be due to the frying temperature. Make sure your oil is at a steady 350°F before adding the chicken. If the temperature drops too low, the coating will absorb oil and become soggy. You can also try to let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain that lovely crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you have allergies, be cautious of the ingredients: chicken, wheat (in the flour), and various spices. For gluten-free options, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Always check labels on sauces like hot sauce and honey to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
How long can I keep the hot honey sauce?
I recommend storing hot honey sauce in the refrigerator in a sealed container, where it can remain fresh for up to 2 weeks. The flavors may even intensify over time! Just give it a good stir before using, and you’re all set to add that sweet and spicy kick to your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders again!
Savory Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Slider Sandwiches at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry and cutting them in half for slider-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Submerge the chicken in this brine, ensuring all pieces are coated, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- In a separate mixing bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and additional kosher salt. This flavorful coating is essential for your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders, as it will deliver that signature crunch. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the chicken for frying.
- Once the chicken has finished brining, remove it from the mixture and allow the excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating for a crispy texture. After coating, place the chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for about 10 minutes while you heat the oil.
- Heat canola oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding, frying for about 6-8 minutes. Monitor closely until they become golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean wire rack to drain excess oil.
- In a bowl, combine cayenne pepper, honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a tablespoon of the hot frying oil used for the chicken. Mix everything well until the sugar dissolves, creating a sweet and spicy glaze that will elevate your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders.
- Now it's time to bring your Nashville Hot Honey Chicken Sliders to life! Brush each piece of fried chicken generously with the hot honey sauce. Place the sauced chicken on soft slider rolls, topping them off with creamy Southern coleslaw and zesty pickle slices for a perfect contrast. Serve immediately for the best experience!
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