These Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken gets a bold blackened spice rub and is topped with creamy Alabama white sauce, all in a soft slider bun.
These sliders are perfect for a fun get-together. Trust me, once you take a bite, you won’t stop at just one! They’re spicy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying!
When I make these for friends, everyone wants the recipe! They’re super easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion—game day, BBQs, or just a cozy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work as well. Just remember that breasts can dry out faster, so keep an eye on them while cooking!
Blackening Seasoning: If you’re out of blackening seasoning, you can mix equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano to create a homemade blend. This will give you a similar flavor profile!
Olive Oil: While olive oil is great for sautéing, you can use other oils such as canola or avocado oil. They also have high smoke points and can handle the heat while cooking chicken.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the Alabama white sauce. It offers creaminess and a tangy flavor without all the calories.
Hot Sauce: Adjust the heat level to your liking! If you prefer milder flavors, use a small amount of honey or ketchup instead; both can lend a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
How Do I Get Chicken with a Perfect Blackened Crust?
Creating that delicious blackened crust is all about the cooking technique. Here’s how to do it:
- First, ensure your chicken is completely dry; moisture will prevent a good sear.
- Coat both sides generously with blackening seasoning, salt, and pepper. The more seasoning, the better the crust!
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot, and add oil. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers.
- Cook the chicken in a single layer to avoid steaming. Flip carefully using tongs to maintain the crust.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps to keep it juicy!
Remember, patience is key here; don’t rush the cooking process, as a good sear gives you that wonderful flavor!
How to Make Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 tablespoon blackening seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Sliders:
- 8 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup dill pickle slices
For the Alabama White Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (to taste)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking, so the total time is around 35 minutes. In that time, you’ll have delicious sliders ready to delight your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better! Generously season both sides of the chicken with the blackening seasoning, salt, and pepper. You want it flavorful!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice blackened crust on the outside. When it’s done, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into strips or pieces.
3. Make the Alabama White Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Taste it and adjust the seasoning or hot sauce according to your preference. This sauce adds a creamy kick!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Take the bottom half of each slider bun and spread a layer of the Alabama white sauce over them. Then, add a generous amount of shredded lettuce followed by the sliced blackened chicken. Use as much chicken as you like!
5. Add Pickles:
Top the chicken with dill pickle slices, adding as many as you enjoy. Drizzle a bit more Alabama white sauce over the pickles for extra flavor!
6. Top with Buns:
Finish by placing the top halves of the slider buns over everything you just put down. They are starting to look yummy!
7. Optional Finishing Touch:
If you want an extra zing, brush the tops of the slider buns with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a beautiful presentation and added flavor.
8. Serve:
Serve the sliders warm and enjoy! You can also serve extra Alabama white sauce and pickles on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but keep in mind they may dry out faster. To help keep them moist, consider marinating them for about 30 minutes in olive oil and seasoning before cooking. Also, reduce the cooking time slightly, around 5-6 minutes per side should suffice depending on thickness.
How Can I Make the Sliders Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, you can increase the amount of blackening seasoning applied to the chicken or add more hot sauce to the Alabama white sauce. A dash of cayenne pepper mixed into the white sauce can also add an extra spicy kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
To store leftovers, individually wrap the sliders in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed within 2-3 days. To reheat, wrap the sliders in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until heated through.
Can I Prepare the Alabama White Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The Alabama white sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just give it a good stir before using it on your sliders!
