“Can you smell that?” I overheard a friend exclaim at a backyard barbecue as the scent of sizzling bacon wafted through the air. That aroma mixed with the sweet hint of maple syrup creates a promise of deliciousness that I just can’t resist. Introducing my Maple Chicken and Bacon Sliders—a perfect blend of comfort food and easy prep for any occasion. These delightful sliders feature tender, oven-roasted chicken dressed in a sticky-sweet maple glaze, topped with crispy bacon and nestled in fluffy slider buns. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser for casual get-togethers, but they also elevate weeknight dinners into something special. Your family will be racing to the table for these finger-licking bites! Ready to dive into your new favorite recipe? Let’s get cooking! Why Try Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders? Irresistible flavor: The combination of sweet maple syrup and smoky bacon creates a mouthwatering experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up gourmet sliders in no time—perfect for busy weekdays or unexpected guests. Versatile options: Feel free to customize with different greens or spices, ensuring these sliders cater to your family’s taste buds. Crowd favorite: Whether at a game day gathering or a cozy dinner, these sliders are sure to impress friends and family alike. Pair them with side dishes like crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for balanced deliciousness! Maple Chicken Bacon Slider Ingredients For the Chicken Chicken Breasts – The main protein source providing a juicy, tender base; consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for additional flavor. Maple Syrup – The star ingredient, imparting sweetness and a glossy finish; alternatives include agave nectar for a similar flavor profile. Dijon Mustard – Offers tang and depth, enhancing the glaze’s complexity; yellow mustard can be an alternative for a milder taste. Soy Sauce – Introduces umami to the marinade, enriching overall taste; use gluten-free tamari for a gluten-free version. Olive Oil – Provides moisture and helps the marinade blend smoothly; can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the chicken’s natural flavors. For the Sliders Slider Buns – Soft mini buns serve as the vessel, adding a pillowy texture; whole grain can be used for added nutrition. Bacon – Adds a crispy, smoky element that balances the sweetness of the maple; thicker-cut varieties yield a substantial bite. Arugula/Baby Spinach – Fresh greens add a peppery note and balance richness; substitute with mixed greens if preferred. Mayonnaise – Enhances moisture and flavor; optional but can be mixed with maple syrup and lemon juice for a creamy spread. Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to balance the richness of the mayo; optional but recommended for added freshness. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks evenly while developing a beautifully glazed exterior. Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil, so the tender chicken won’t stick. Step 2: Season the Chicken While the oven warms up, take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This process enhances the chicken’s natural flavors, making your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders even more scrumptious. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the marinade. Step 3: Whisk the Marinade In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and olive oil until combined. This sweet and savory glaze will coat the chicken beautifully, imparting rich flavors during baking. Ensure the mixture is smooth and creamy, perfect for drenching the chicken. Step 4: Marinate the Chicken Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the greased baking dish, making sure they are spaced apart for even cooking. Pour the maple marinade generously over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated on all sides. This will create the delicious caramelization that makes your sliders irresistible as they bake. Step 5: Bake the Chicken Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it—this is when those delightful aromas will start filling your kitchen! Step 6: Cook the Bacon While the chicken bakes, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon strips. Cook until crispy and golden, about 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through. Drain the cooked bacon on paper towels to absorb excess grease, leaving you with perfectly crispy bacon for your sliders. Step 7: Prepare the Chicken for Sliders Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice remains moist. After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the chicken into thin, tender pieces that will fit perfectly in your sliders. Step 8: Make Maple Mayo (Optional) For an extra layer of flavor, mix mayonnaise, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a splash of lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. This creamy maple mayo adds a delightful touch to your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders, enhancing their overall taste with a tangy sweetness. Step 9: Assemble the Sliders To assemble, take your slider buns and spread a layer of the maple mayo on the bottom half. Add a handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach followed by slices of the succulent maple-glazed chicken and crispy bacon. This delicious layering will create the perfect bite each time. Step 10: Top and Serve Finally, cover each slider with the top half of the bun. Serve your hot Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors! Gather your family and friends around for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Expert Tips for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest after baking for about 5 minutes. This retains moisture and ensures juicy slices for your sliders. Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife when slicing the chicken. This will produce cleaner cuts and maintain the integrity of the tender meat. Broil for Indulgence: For an extra layer of flavor, consider broiling the assembled sliders with cheese on top for a melty, indulgent twist. Layer Fresh Greens Properly: Add fresh greens just before serving to maintain their crispness and vibrant color, balancing the sliders’ rich flavors beautifully. Bacon Choice: Opt for thicker-cut bacon for a more substantial bite and an even better crisp. This enhances the savory element without overpowering the sweet maple glaze. Keep it Fresh: Assemble sliders right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and the buns soft, ensuring the best experience for your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders. Storage Tips for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Fridge: Store assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to regain softness. Separate Ingredients: Keep chicken, bacon, and slider buns in separate containers for up to 3 days for maximum freshness. Assemble just before serving to maintain the ideal texture. Freezer: Freeze the cooked chicken and crispy bacon separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Reheat thawed chicken and bacon in a skillet over low heat or in the oven. Use mild heat to prevent drying out, ensuring your Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders taste freshly made! Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Variations Feel free to experiment and make these sliders uniquely yours with these fun twists that add different flavors and textures! Boneless Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier flavor that pairs perfectly with the maple glaze. Turkey Bacon: For a lighter version, opt for turkey bacon instead of traditional pork. It still delivers that crispy goodness without the added fat. Spicy Chipotle: Add a dash of chipotle powder to the marinade for a smoky and spicy kick that takes these sliders to the next level. Your tastebuds will thank you for this bold twist! Greens Variety: Experiment with different greens—try using crispy lettuce, peppery arugula, or hearty kale to tailor the slider’s crunch and flavor. Whole Grain Buns: Switch to whole grain slider buns for a nutty flavor and a boost in nutrition. They’ll complement the sweet and savory filling beautifully. Avocado Spread: Substitute the mayonnaise with a creamy avocado spread for a fresh, healthy take that will impress your guests. BBQ Glaze: Swap the maple syrup with your favorite barbecue sauce for a tangy and smoky alternative. Perfect for those who love a classic BBQ flavor! Consider pairing these variations with some delicious sides, like crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh salad, to create a perfect meal! If you’re looking for further inspiration, why not try out these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or add some zing with Mango Chicken Stir Fry? Enjoy the flavor journey! What to Serve with Maple Chicken and Bacon Sliders Add a delightful array of sides to elevate your slider experience beyond expectations, creating a feast that’s truly memorable. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy exterior of sweet potato fries complement the sliders beautifully, adding a delightful crunch. Fresh Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the sliders, refreshing every bite. Creamy Coleslaw: This classic side offers a crunchy, creamy texture that contrasts with the sliders, providing a satisfying texture and a hint of tang. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies grilled to perfection bring a smoky flavor that enhances the sweet and savory notes in your sliders. Savory Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn brushed with butter pairs perfectly with the sliders, adding a summertime feel to brighten your meal. Iced Tea or Lemonade: A tall glass of refreshing iced tea or zesty lemonade serves as a perfect drink accompaniment, washing down the flavors wonderfully. Indulge in these pairings to make your Maple Chicken and Bacon Sliders the highlight of any gathering! Make Ahead Options These Maple Chicken and Bacon Sliders are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the chicken and bacon up to 3 days in advance. Simply bake the chicken and allow it to cool before slicing it into pieces, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Cook the bacon until crispy, then let it cool and place it in a separate container. The slider buns can also be kept fresh for another 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chicken and bacon in the oven until warm (about 10-15 minutes at 350°F or 175°C) and assemble your sliders. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade comfort food ready to enjoy with minimal effort! Maple Chicken and Bacon Sliders Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for my sliders? Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for those that are plump, firm, and have a pinkish color. Avoid any with dark spots or a grayish hue. For bacon, opt for thicker-cut varieties which provide a better texture. For greens, choose ones that are vibrant and crisp, steering clear of wilting or yellowing leaves. How should I store the sliders and how long will they last? You can store assembled Maple Chicken and Bacon Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back their softness. For maximum freshness, I recommend keeping the chicken, bacon, and buns in separate containers and assembling them just before serving. Can I freeze the sliders? Certainly! Freeze the cooked chicken and crispy bacon separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the components overnight in the fridge. After thawing, reheat the chicken and bacon in a skillet over low heat or in the oven, ensuring they’re warmed through without drying out. This way your Maple Chicken and Bacon Sliders will taste freshly made! What are some common troubleshooting tips? If your chicken is not browning as expected, ensure that you’ve preheated your oven properly, as this is crucial for achieving that golden glaze. Additionally, letting the chicken rest post-baking is essential for juicy meat—so don’t skip this step! If you find the sliders are a bit dry when reheating, a drizzle of extra maple syrup can work wonders to restore moisture. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, using gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce is a great substitution. If you’re preparing these sliders for a gathering, also consider that some guests may have bacon allergies or dietary restrictions—feel free to use turkey bacon or a vegetarian option like grilled portobello mushrooms to create a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy! How can I customize my Maple Chicken and Bacon Sliders? Very! You can experiment with different greens, such as spinach or arugula, to suit your taste. Try adding spices to the marinade, like garlic powder or smoked paprika, for a unique twist. Additionally, consider topping the sliders with slices of avocado or pickles for added flavor and texture! Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders: Your New Favorite Comfort Food Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are the ultimate comfort food, combining sweet maple syrup and smoky bacon for irresistible flavor. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 slidersCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with chicken thighs.1/2 cup Maple Syrup Agave nectar can be used as an alternative.2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard is an alternative.2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Use gluten-free tamari for gluten-free version.1 tablespoon Olive Oil Avocado oil can be substituted.1 teaspoon Salt1/2 teaspoon Black PepperFor the Sliders8 pieces Slider Buns Whole grain can be used for added nutrition.8 slices Bacon Thicker-cut bacon is preferred.2 cups Arugula or Baby Spinach Mixed greens can be substituted.1/2 cup Mayonnaise Can mix with maple syrup and lemon juice.1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Optional for added freshness. Equipment Ovenbaking dishskilletmixing bowlKnifecutting boardmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and olive oil until combined.Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the greased baking dish and pour the maple marinade over them.Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).Cook bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden, about 5–7 minutes.Once the chicken is fully cooked, let it rest for about 5 minutes and then slice it into thin pieces.Mix mayonnaise, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a splash of lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth for the optional maple mayo.To assemble, spread maple mayo on the bottom half of the slider buns, add arugula or spinach, chicken slices, and crispy bacon.Cover each slider with the top half of the bun and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1sliderCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 22gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg NotesAllow the chicken to rest after baking and use a sharp knife when slicing for tender pieces. For an indulgent option, broil assembled sliders with cheese on top before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
