Juicy Blackened Chicken Sliders Everyone Will Love 2025
Sliders are small in size but big on flavor, and Blackened Chicken Sliders with Alabama White BBQ Sauce are a perfect example. These sliders are ideal for game days, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings. Every bite offers a balanced combination of smoky, bold spices, juicy chicken, creamy tangy sauce, and crisp vegetables—all served on soft, buttery buns.
What sets this recipe apart is the harmonious mix of blackened seasoning and the Alabama white BBQ sauce, creating layers of flavor that are both indulgent and unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these sliders are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold & Flavorful: The homemade blackened seasoning adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
- Juicy Chicken: Chicken tenders stay tender and succulent, perfect for slider-sized portions.
- Creamy Alabama White Sauce: Offers tang, richness, and a hint of spice, balancing the bold chicken flavor.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.
Ingredient Highlights
Chicken Tenders
- Tender, quick-cooking, and perfect for sliders.
- Evenly coated with blackened seasoning for maximum flavor.
Homemade Blackened Seasoning
- Combines paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Customizable spice levels for mild or bold heat.
Alabama White BBQ Sauce
- Creamy, tangy, slightly spicy, with mayonnaise and vinegar as a base.
- Can be prepared in advance to allow flavors to meld.
Slider Buns
- Soft buns like King’s Hawaiian or mini brioche hold the chicken and toppings without falling apart.
- Brushed with garlic butter and toasted for extra flavor and texture.
Lettuce & Pickles
- Crisp lettuce and tangy pickles provide contrast to the rich chicken and sauce.
Optional Toppings
- Sliced tomatoes, red onions, or shredded cheese add layers of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Alabama White BBQ Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, horseradish, black pepper, salt, and a pinch of cayenne.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to use; flavors improve after a few hours.
Step 2: Make the Blackened Seasoning
- Combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Mix thoroughly.
- Store extra seasoning in an airtight container for future recipes.
Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken
- Pat chicken tenders dry and coat lightly with olive oil.
- Rub blackened seasoning evenly on all sides.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of oil.
- Cook chicken tenders 3–4 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
Step 4: Toast the Slider Buns
- Mix melted butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley.
- Split the slider buns and brush both sides lightly with butter mixture.
- Toast under the broiler until golden brown, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
- Place a cooked chicken tender on the bottom bun.
- Top with shredded lettuce and a few pickle slices.
- Spoon a generous amount of Alabama white sauce over the chicken.
- Add the top bun and press lightly.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Variations & Substitutions
- Grilled Chicken: Swap skillet-cooked blackened chicken with grilled tenders for a smoky char.
- Spicy Mayo or Chipotle Aioli: Use as a sauce alternative if Alabama white sauce is unavailable.
- Different Buns: Mini brioche, ciabatta, or gluten-free buns work well.
- Cheese: Add pepper jack, cheddar, or provolone slices for extra richness.
- Vegetables: Include tomato slices, red onions, or avocado for additional flavor layers.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Crispy fries, coleslaw, potato wedges, or tangy cucumber salad.
- Drinks: Cold beer, iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water pair well.
- Presentation: Arrange sliders on a platter with extra pickles and sauce on the side for dipping.
Storage & Leftovers
- Chicken & Sauce: Store separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet or oven; toast buns separately to maintain texture.
- Freezing: Cooked chicken tenders can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before assembling sliders.
FAQs
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes! Chilling the Alabama white sauce for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavors.
Is the chicken spicy?
It has a kick, but cayenne can be reduced for milder heat.
Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor and works perfectly with this recipe.
What else can I use Alabama white sauce for?
It’s delicious on pulled pork, grilled vegetables, sandwiches, or as a dip for fries.
Can I freeze the assembled sliders?
It’s best to freeze only the cooked chicken, not the assembled slider, to maintain texture.
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Dry Chicken Thoroughly: Ensures seasoning sticks and forms a proper crust.
- Watch the Heat: Blackened seasoning cooks quickly; avoid burning by using medium-high heat.
- Butter the Buns: Adds flavor and prevents sogginess.
- Let Chicken Rest: Keeps meat juicy and tender.
- Customize Spice Level: Adjust cayenne and paprika to taste.
Conclusion
Blackened Chicken Sliders with Alabama White BBQ Sauce are bold, juicy, and irresistibly flavorful. From game nights to casual dinners, they impress everyone with layers of smoky, creamy, and tangy goodness. Quick to prepare, versatile, and endlessly customizable, this recipe is a must-have for slider lovers.
Try this recipe today, experiment with toppings and sauces, and make it your own. Share your creations, serve with favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious experience that will keep everyone coming back for more.
