Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders: Sweet & Savory Bites!

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together and leaves taste buds dancing, you’ve stumbled upon a gem! These Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders: Sweet & Savory Bites! are the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Imagine succulent chicken, crispy beef bacon, and a drizzle of maple syrup all nestled in a soft slider bun. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite at busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it effortlessly combines those comforting flavors we all love. The maple syrup adds a delightful sweetness while the savory notes from the beef bacon create an irresistible combination. Trust me, once you serve these sliders, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these sliders in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall head over heels for these tasty bites.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day or a casual family dinner, these sliders fit right in.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an easy meal prep option.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sauces to make them your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe features simple, wholesome components that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, slider-sized
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Beef Bacon

• 1 lb thick-cut beef bacon

For Assembly & Toppings

• 12 slider buns
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4-6 slices cheddar or provolone cheese, quartered
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

For the Special Slider Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about these sliders is how flexible they are! You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Try turkey or grilled veggies for a lighter option.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with ranch dressing or BBQ sauce instead of the special slider sauce.
• Add extra crunch: Toss in some pickles or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary preferences.

How to Make Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders: Sweet & Savory Bites!

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). This marinade packs in tons of flavor that will soak into the chicken as it sits.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

Add your slider-sized chicken breasts to the marinade. Make sure they’re well-coated so every bite is bursting with flavor! Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; if you have more time, let it sit for up to 2 hours.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken pieces for 4-6 minutes per side until they’re cooked through and caramelized – this gives them that beautiful golden color and enhances their flavor.

Step 4: Cook Beef Bacon

Now it’s time for our beef bacon! Cook it until crispy using your preferred method – whether that’s in an oven or on the stovetop. Once done, drain it on paper towels and break it into slider-sized pieces. This step adds that satisfying crunch we all crave!

Step 5: Prepare Slider Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Taste and adjust as needed. This creamy sauce elevates our sliders with its tangy kick!

Step 6: Toast Buns

Brush the cut sides of your slider buns with melted butter. Toast them in a skillet or oven until they’re lightly golden. This helps prevent sogginess when you load them up with all those delicious fillings!

Step 7: Assemble Sliders

Spread some special slider sauce on each bottom bun. Layer with warm chicken pieces followed by quartered cheese slices (let it melt!), crispy beef bacon, shredded lettuce, thin tomato slices, and onions if desired. Top it off with more sauce on the top buns before placing them on your assembled sliders. Press down gently and serve immediately while they’re warm and inviting!

Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy your Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders: Sweet & Savory Bites!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders: Sweet & Savory Bites!

These sliders are sure to be a hit, and with a few handy tips, you can take them to the next level!

• Marinate Longer for Flavor: Allowing your chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours (or overnight if possible) enhances the flavor dramatically, making each bite even more delicious.
• Crisp Your Beef Bacon: For the best texture, ensure your beef bacon is crispy. This adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken and soft bun.
• Toast Your Buns: Toasting the slider buns not only adds flavor but also helps prevent them from becoming soggy when piled high with toppings.
• Play with Cheese Options: While cheddar and provolone are great choices, experimenting with gouda or pepper jack can introduce an exciting twist to your sliders.
• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the ingredients in the slider sauce based on your taste preferences. Adding extra sriracha for heat or more maple syrup for sweetness is a fun way to make it your own!

How to Serve Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders: Sweet & Savory Bites!

Presenting your sliders in an appealing way will make them even more enticing for your guests. Here are some creative ideas:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Pickles: A couple of dill pickle slices on the side provide a tangy crunch that complements the sweet and savory flavors of the sliders.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy, naturally sweet fries are a fantastic accompaniment that balances out the savory flavors of the sliders.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots tossed in a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sliders.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette offers a fresh and crisp complement, enhancing the meal’s overall balance.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender bring a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the maple chicken.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite of these delightful Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components in advance, making your mealtime stress-free and enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be kept for up to 3 days; just make sure they are well wrapped to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• You can freeze the cooked chicken and beef bacon separately for later use.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you remove as much air as possible.
• These components can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the chicken and beef bacon overnight in the refrigerator.
• Warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through or use a microwave for quick reheating.
• Assemble with fresh buns and toppings before serving.

FAQs

Have questions about these delightful sliders? Here are some answers!

Can I make these Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and cook it along with the beef bacon ahead of time. Just assemble them right before serving for that fresh slider experience!

What sides pair well with Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders?

These sliders go wonderfully with crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or even coleslaw. Pick your favorites to create a well-rounded meal!

How do I ensure my chicken is juicy in the sliders?

By marinating the chicken breasts properly and cooking them until they’re just done (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C), you’ll keep them juicy.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of beef bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon would be a great alternative! Just note that it may have a different flavor profile than beef bacon.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try these Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders! They combine sweet and savory flavors into mouthwatering bites that will impress anyone who tries them. Enjoy creating this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family. Happy cooking!