Sliders have become a favorite due to their versatility and convenience, perfect for casual gatherings and events. These small sandwiches offer endless possibilities for customization, making them a hit with a variety of audiences. The specific recipe focus here is on Honey Mustard BLT Chicken Sliders, which combine the classic flavors of a BLT with the tangy sweetness of honey mustard and the heartiness of blackened chicken, all in a convenient, bite-sized format.

Recipe Inspiration and Popularity

The inspiration behind the Honey Mustard BLT Chicken Sliders recipe stems from the need for crowd-pleasing dishes that are perfect for game day or casual gatherings. These sliders are designed to combine the best elements of a classic BLT with the rich flavors of blackened chicken and honey mustard, making them a hit at any event. Their popularity on social media is evident, with users frequently sharing their success stories and modifications, praising the recipe’s taste and ease of preparation.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Blackened Seasoning
- Role: Adds a robust, smoky flavor to the chicken, creating a contrast with the sweetness of the honey mustard.
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Emphasize the benefits of making blackened seasoning at home, such as control over spice levels and freshness. Discuss potential store-bought alternatives.

Chicken Tenders
- Role: The main protein, chosen for its tender and juicy texture, which absorbs the blackened seasoning well.
- Substitutes: Explain how chicken breast or thighs can be used instead, noting differences in cooking time and texture.

Honey Mustard
- Role: Provides a sweet and tangy contrast to the smoky chicken and savory bacon, tying together the flavors in the sliders.
- Substitutes: Suggest alternative mustard types like Dijon or a honey-Dijon blend for those who prefer a different flavor profile.

Bacon
- Role: Adds a crispy, salty element that complements the chicken and provides a textural contrast.
- Variations: Mention options for using turkey bacon or omitting bacon for a lighter version.

Cheese
- Role: Provides a creamy, mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients, helping to meld the flavors together.
- Selection: Discuss the importance of choosing a cheese that melts well, such as provolone or mozzarella.

Lettuce, Tomato, and Onion
- Role: Fresh vegetables add crunch and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken, bacon, and cheese.
- Additions: Suggest optional toppings like pickles or avocado for added flavor and texture.

Slider Buns
- Role: Holds all the ingredients together; King’s Hawaiian buns are preferred for their slight sweetness, which complements the honey mustard.
- Alternatives: Discuss other bun options, like brioche or whole grain, and their impact on the flavor profile.

Garlic Butter Spread
- Role: Infuses the buns with extra flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the sliders.
- Customizations: Offer ideas for adding herbs or spices to the spread for a personalized touch.

Substitutions and Variations

Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese: Swap out provolone for sharp cheddar or pepper jack for added spice.
- Mustard: Use Dijon mustard or a honey-Dijon blend for a different tang.
- Veggies: Include pickles, avocado, or sautéed onions for extra texture and flavor.
Dietary Adjustments
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Low-Fat: Use turkey bacon, reduced-fat cheese, or omit the garlic butter spread for a lighter version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation of Chicken and Seasoning

Seasoning the Chicken
- Ingredients: Start by preparing the blackened seasoning, either homemade or using a store-bought option. Season the chicken tenders generously on all sides.
- Cooking Options:
  - Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken tenders on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  - Skillet Cooking: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Cook the tenders for about 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring they are fully cooked and slightly charred on the outside.

Resting the Chicken:
- Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving, ensuring the juices are evenly distributed.

Preparing the Buns and Toppings

Toasting the Buns
- Spread a thin layer of garlic butter on the inside of each slider bun. Toast the buns on a skillet, grill, or in the oven until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Preparing the Toppings
- Lettuce: Wash and dry the lettuce, then tear it into small pieces that fit the slider size.
- Tomato: Slice the tomato thinly and evenly for easy layering.
- Onion (Optional): Thinly slice red onion or sauté it for a milder flavor.

Assembling the Sliders

Layering Ingredients
- Bottom Bun: Start with the toasted bottom bun. Place a piece of lettuce on it to prevent the bun from getting soggy.
- Chicken: Add the cooked chicken tender on top of the lettuce.
- Cheese: Place a slice of cheese over the hot chicken so it begins to melt slightly.
- Bacon: Add a strip or two of crispy bacon on top of the cheese.
- Tomato and Onion: Finish with a slice of tomato and a few rings of onion.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
- Ensure each slider has a balanced amount of each ingredient to achieve a harmonious blend of smoky, sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a mix of textures.

Final Cooking Steps

Broiling the Assembled Sliders
- Place the assembled sliders under a broiler for a minute or two if you want the cheese to melt further and the toppings to meld together.

Finishing Touches
- Before serving, brush the top bun with the remaining garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately while the sliders are warm.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Occasions
- Parties and Gatherings: These sliders are perfect for game day, casual get-togethers, family dinners, and potlucks. Their bite-sized format makes them easy to handle and ideal for serving a crowd.
- Presentation: Arrange the sliders on a large platter with a variety of garnishes like fresh herbs or sliced veggies. Use toothpicks to hold the sliders together, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
Plating Tips
- Consider placing a small ramekin of extra honey mustard or aioli in the center of the platter for dipping. Add a garnish of fresh parsley or cilantro around the edges of the platter to enhance visual appeal.

Side Dishes and Accompaniments

Side Dishes
- Elote Queso: A creamy and cheesy Mexican corn dip that pairs well with the smoky flavors of the sliders.
- Jalapeno Popper Corn Dip: This spicy and creamy dip complements the tangy and sweet elements of the honey mustard sliders.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that adds a nice contrast to the richness of the sliders.
Drink Pairings
- Light Beers: A crisp lager or pilsner pairs well with the savory and smoky flavors of the sliders, offering a refreshing counterbalance.
- Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade provides a sweet and tangy complement, especially if you’re serving these sliders at a summer gathering.
- Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a tall glass of iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, works well to cut through the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use full-sized buns instead of sliders?
- Explanation: Yes, you can use full-sized buns. Simply increase the amount of chicken and other toppings proportionally. Cook the chicken breasts whole, then slice and assemble on the larger buns as you would for sliders.
What can I use if I can’t find Sweet Baby Ray’s Golden Mustard?
- Substitute Suggestions: If Sweet Baby Ray’s Golden Mustard is unavailable, you can substitute it with honey mustard or a mix of Dijon mustard and honey for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
- Tips: To reduce fat and calories, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, opt for low-fat cheese, and consider using a whole grain or gluten-free bun. You can also omit the garlic butter spread to further lower the calorie content.

Can I prepare these sliders in advance?
- Storage and Reheating Instructions: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and toppings ahead of time. Store the cooked components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken in an oven or skillet before assembling the sliders. Toast the buns just before serving for optimal freshness.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Recipe Recap

The Honey Mustard BLT Chicken Sliders are a must-try due to their perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors, combined with a variety of textures that make them irresistible. The combination of blackened chicken, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and a garlic butter-topped bun results in a slider that’s both satisfying and crowd-pleasing. Their versatility makes them suitable for any occasion, from casual family dinners to lively game day gatherings.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare yet sure to impress, these sliders are the perfect choice. Not only do they pack a flavorful punch, but they also offer endless possibilities for customization to suit your taste. I encourage you to try making these sliders at home and share your experience with friends and family. Don’t forget to experiment with different ingredients and let your creativity shine. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your twist, these sliders are sure to be a hit!

Honey Mustard BLT Chicken Sliders

Author: Christine

Print Recipe

Description

These Honey Mustard BLT Chicken Sliders are a delightful combination of smoky blackened chicken, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and a tangy honey mustard sauce, all nestled in soft, buttery slider buns. Perfect for game days, parties, or a fun family meal, these sliders offer a satisfying bite that’s packed with flavor and texture.

Instructions

Place tenders into a large zip-top bag or bowl. Add several tablespoons of blackened seasoning and a few tablespoons of oil. Mix to coat them evenly, making sure they are well seasoned on all sides.
Cook chicken either in an oiled skillet over medium-high, or grill the chicken, about 3 minutes per side flipping just once.

As chicken cooks make your butter topping by combining all butter mixture ingredients in a small bowl. Heat for 30 seconds or until butter melts, then stir to combine.
If needed, slice the sliders horizontally using a serrated knife. Place them cut side up onto a baking sheet and toast under a broiler until golden brown, just a few minutes.
Flip the top buns so the domed tops are facing up and leave them beside the bottom buns on the pan. Assemble the sliders by first adding a squeeze of mayo to all of the bottom buns.

Add the chicken, scattering it evenly so each slider gets at least one chicken tender.
Add a dollop of the golden honey mustard, then place cheese over the chicken.
Spread the top buns with the butter mixture. Add baking sheet back into the broiler for another minute or two until cheese softens and the top buns are slightly toasted.

Top the sliders with bacon, tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, and another drizzle of the honey mustard. Place the top buns over the sandwiches, slice to separate them and serve.

Notes

For a healthier version, consider using turkey bacon, low-fat cheese, and whole grain buns. You can also prepare the components ahead of time for easy assembly before serving.