There’s nothing quite as inviting as the captivating aroma of maple syrup mingling with sizzling beef bacon—it’s a scent that can pull anyone into the kitchen. Let me share a recipe that transformed my gatherings forever: Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders. These delicious bites offer a symphony of flavors, where the sweet warmth of maple dances with the savory richness of crispy beef bacon and tender, marinated chicken.
Perfect for parties, casual dinners, or simply a satisfying weeknight treat, these sliders are incredibly easy to prepare and even more delightful to devour. With the added versatility of options for toppings and ingredient swaps, they’re bound to please every palate. So, whether you’re entertaining friends or just in need of comfort food after a long day, these sliders are your answer. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory!
Why love Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders?
Irresistible Flavor Combination: The blend of maple syrup and beef bacon offers an unforgettable taste experience that will leave your taste buds singing.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these sliders are sure to impress guests of all ages, transforming any ordinary meal into a fantastic feast.
Easy and Quick: With just a few simple steps, you can whip these up in no time, making dinner stress-free and delicious.
Customizable Options: Easily tailor the ingredients to your liking—experiment with toppings and flavor variations to suit any mood or preference.
Ultimate Comfort Food: Combining sweet and savory elements, these sliders serve as the perfect remedy for any day, providing comfort with every bite.
Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Choose slider-sized pieces for the perfect bite; turkey or plant-based chicken also work well.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Adds moisture and helps the flavors meld; avocado oil is a great alternative.
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika – Provides a delicious smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used if necessary.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Elevates flavor; replace with fresh minced garlic for a fresher kick.
- 1 tsp onion powder – Offers sweetness and depth; finely chopped fresh onion is a good substitute.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme – Delivers herbaceous notes; swap with Italian seasoning for variety.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – Adds a mild heat; freshly ground pepper enhances the dish.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup – Sweetens and glazes the chicken; honey or agave can serve as alternatives.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; white vinegar can be used in a pinch.
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard – Introduces tanginess; yellow mustard can do the job too.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and umami; look for vegan versions if needed.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Infuses heat; leave out for a milder result.
For the Beef Bacon
- 1 lb thick-cut beef bacon – Delivers a crispy crunch; for a lighter option, turkey bacon is a tasty substitute.
For the Slider Assembly
- 12 slider buns – The perfect base for these morsels; try Hawaiian rolls or brioche for extra sweetness.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Great for toasting buns; a dairy-free version can be skipped.
- 4-6 slices cheddar or provolone cheese, quartered – Adds a luscious creaminess; consider vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce – Provides freshness and crunch; spinach is a lovely alternative.
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced – Adds juiciness and sweetness; any tomato variety can be used.
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional) – Offers a sharp contrast; shallots can replace them for a milder flavor.
For the Special Slider Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise – Brings creamy richness; swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter touch.
- 2 tbsp sriracha sauce – Adds a flavor kick; adjust the quantity to taste.
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup – Sweetens the sauce; honey works as an alternative.
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar – For a touch of acidity; the same as mentioned above.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – Contributes depth; regular paprika can be a suitable swap.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder – A flavor enhancer; head by using fresh garlic as desired.
- Pinch cayenne pepper (optional) – Uplifts heat levels; omit if you prefer a milder version.
Each ingredient in this Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders recipe enhances the deliciously sweet and savory experience. Happy cooking!
How to Make Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders
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Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until well mixed.
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Marinate Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade, ensuring they are fully covered. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but aim for 2 hours for maximum flavor.
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Cook Chicken: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 4-6 minutes per side until it’s caramelized and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Cook Beef Bacon: Crisp the thick-cut beef bacon using your preferred method—whether it be in a skillet or oven—and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
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Prepare Slider Sauce: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and optional cayenne until combined and creamy.
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Toast Buns: Brush the slider buns with melted butter and toast them in a skillet or oven until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy.
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Assemble Sliders: Spread the slider sauce on the bottom of the buns, then layer with chicken, cheese, beef bacon, shredded lettuce, and tomato. If desired, add thinly sliced red onion. Top with more sauce and the top buns.
Optional: Pile on extra toppings like pickles or jalapeños for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders
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Room Temperature: Store sliders for up to 2 hours at room temperature if left uneaten. After that, refrigerate to ensure freshness.
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Fridge: Keep assembled sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Thaw frozen sliders in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy your Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders!
Variations & Substitutions for Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders
Feel free to get creative with these sliders; they are just as delightful with a twist!
- Turkey Substitute: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a lighter option that still offers great flavor.
- Vegan Delight: Swap the chicken and beef bacon for plant-based alternatives, like jackfruit and tempeh, for a scrumptious vegan treat. Enjoy the same comforting experience without the meat!
- Gluten-Free Buns: For those with dietary restrictions, opt for gluten-free slider buns, ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty bites. The flavors remain intact while catering to different needs.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add jalapeños or chipotle sauce to the slider sauce for an extra kick. The heat will perfectly complement the sweetness of the maple syrup!
- Herb Infusion: Instead of dried thyme, try fresh herbs like rosemary or cilantro for a fresh twist on flavor. The brightness of fresh herbs adds a lovely layer of taste.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a smoky edge. Each cheese gives a unique character to your sliders!
- Sweet Potato Buns: Try using sweet potato rounds in place of buns for a gluten-free, flavorful alternative. Not only does it taste delicious, but it also adds a beautiful pop of color.
- Additional Toppings: Layer on caramelized onions or avocado for added richness and depth. These ingredients elevate the sliders, making them truly gourmet!
Embrace the versatility of these delightful sliders, and relish every delicious bite tailored to your taste!
What to Serve with Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders?
These sliders are so flavorful and comforting, you’ll want to create a meal that perfectly complements their sweet and savory punch.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunch of these fries provide a wonderful contrast to the sliders’ flavors. Perfect for dipping in any leftover sauce!
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Classic Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the bacon and cheese, adding a refreshing element that cuts through the meal’s decadence.
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Garden Salad: A light, mixed green salad piled high with juicy tomatoes and cucumbers adds a burst of freshness—ideal for a well-rounded meal alongside the hearty sliders.
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BBQ Baked Beans: The smoky sweetness of BBQ baked beans wonderfully complements the flavors in the sliders, making every bite truly irresistible.
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Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: For added comfort, serve these sliders alongside indulgent mac and cheese, creating a fulfilling meal that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink like sparkling lemonade enhances the meal’s overall sweetness, making it a delightful choice to sip alongside the sliders.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with classic chocolate chip cookies—warm and gooey, they are the perfect treat to finish off your comfort food feast.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights smoother! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, helping the flavors intensify. Just coat the chicken in the marinade, seal it in an airtight container, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. You can also prepare the special slider sauce up to 3 days prior; just store it in the fridge to keep it fresh and creamy. When you’re ready to assemble, simply cook the marinated chicken and crispy beef bacon, toast the buns, and layer everything together for a delicious meal that’s just as satisfying as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders
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Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours. This ensures a more flavorful and juicy result in your Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Cooking the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F prevents undercooking and ensures safety. Accuracy is key!
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Crisp Your Bacon: For the best texture, cook bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. A crispy beef bacon adds a delightful crunch to your sliders.
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Perfectly Toasted Buns: Toasting the slider buns is essential to maintain structure when assembled. It prevents sogginess and enhances the eating experience.
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Customize with Toppings: Feel free to add more toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or avocado. Customization makes every batch of Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders uniquely delicious!
Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which provide a perfect texture for sliders. Ensure they are cut into slider-sized pieces. If you’re looking for alternatives, feel free to substitute with turkey or plant-based chicken to suit your dietary preferences.
How do I store leftover sliders?
For sure! To keep your assembled Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I suggest placing parchment paper between layers of sliders to prevent them from sticking together and losing that delightful texture!
Can I freeze the sliders for later?
Definitely! To freeze your Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders, wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’re good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
What if my chicken is dry after cooking?
Very important! To avoid dry chicken, ensure you marinate it for at least 30 minutes—preferably up to 2 hours. Cooking the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F while keeping an eye on it in the skillet (around 4-6 minutes per side) will help keep it juicy. If it does turn out dry, serving it with your special slider sauce can add moisture and flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider swapping beef bacon for turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative to cater to different diets. Also, to make these sliders dairy-free, you can use vegan cheese and skip the butter when toasting the buns.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Marinating the chicken in advance not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully for a tastier slider experience!
Maple Chicken Beef Bacon Sliders: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until well mixed.
- Marinate Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade, ensuring they are fully covered. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but aim for 2 hours for maximum flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 4-6 minutes per side until it's caramelized and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Cook Beef Bacon: Crisp the thick-cut beef bacon using your preferred method and let it drain on paper towels.
- Prepare Slider Sauce: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and optional cayenne until combined and creamy.
- Toast Buns: Brush the slider buns with melted butter and toast them until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Assemble Sliders: Spread the slider sauce on the bottom of the buns, then layer with chicken, cheese, beef bacon, shredded lettuce, and tomato. Optionally add red onion. Top with more sauce and the top buns.