Dive into the heart of Southern cuisine with these irresistibly crispy Southern Fried Chicken Sliders. Perfectly spiced chicken paired with fresh buns makes for a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table while also boosting your friendly SEO rankings with its rich flavors!
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This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings, where the aroma of Fried Chicken filled the air, mingling with laughter and chatter. My grandmother always insisted on using her secret blend of herbs and spices, which I inherited along with her kitchen wisdom. Her philosophy was simple: “Cook with love, and it’s bound to show.” Every time I make these sliders, I’m transported back to those warm, bustling kitchens filled with love and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These sliders are an excellent fusion of Southern tradition and modern flair. The recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly flexible, allowing for adjustments based on your taste preferences. Ideal for gatherings, they make a delectable option for finger food, leaving your guests craving for more. With their crispy texture and juicy flavor profile, these sliders are a culinary delight that promises to elevate your meal.
Ingredients Notes
Choosing the best ingredients can massively impact the texture and taste of your sliders. For the chicken, opt for organic or free-range varieties known for their superior flavor. The spices form the soul of this recipe; it’s worth investing in fresh ones. If you’re out of a specific spice, a mix of cayenne and paprika makes a perfect substitute. And don’t forget the buns—choose ones that are soft yet sturdy enough to hold the fillings without getting soggy.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by preparing your chicken. Cut the chicken fillets into burger-sized pieces and marinate them in buttermilk, salt, and your favorite Southern spices for at least two hours or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
Step 2
Create your dredging station with a mix of flour, cornstarch, and your chosen spices. Coat each chicken piece thoroughly, ensuring an even layer around.
Step 3
Heat oil in a deep skillet to around 350°F. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes per side. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Step 4
As the chicken rests on a wire rack to drain excess oil, prepare your condiments. Consider a spicy mayo made from chipotle peppers blended with mayonnaise for an additional kick.
Step 5
Assemble your sliders by smearing the mayo on the buns, adding the Crispy Chicken, and topping with pickles or coleslaw as per your preference. Serve immediately for the best taste experience.
Storage Options
For leftovers, store the chicken and the buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can last up to three days, while the buns will stay fresh for about two days. To reheat the chicken, use an oven for a crisp finish. These sliders can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken alone and prepare the buns fresh when needed.
Variations & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, try baking the chicken instead of frying. Gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour can be used for those with dietary restrictions. Adding a slice of cheese before the final assembly or a tangy barbecue sauce can jazz up your sliders with a new flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sliders at your next Game Day or picnic. Pair them with classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries for a full Southern-themed meal. Ideal as a family weekend treat or a crowd-pleaser at parties, these sliders also go well with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
frequently asked questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs are a juicy alternative that many people actually prefer. They add extra moisture and tend to be more forgiving when cooking, reducing the risk of drying out.
What’s the best way to keep the chicken crispy?
Once fried, place your chicken pieces on a wire rack instead of directly on paper towels. This allows air circulation and prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. Serving the chicken immediately is ideal to preserve its crispy texture.
Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance and even leave it overnight. Prep the dredging mix and have it ready, but for the best results, fry the chicken right before serving to maintain that delightful crunch.
Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken Sliders with Garlic Aioli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups vegetable oil for frying
- 8 pieces boneless chicken thighs halved
- 1.5 cups buttermilk for marinating
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour for breading
- 2 tablespoons herbes de Provence or mixed Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper to taste
Slider Toppings
- 16 slider buns soft mini buns
- 1 cup garlic aioli store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup arugula for serving
- 2 medium tomatoes sliced
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk and lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- In a shallow dish, mix together flour, herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and coat each piece in the flour mixture.
- In a frying pan, heat oil to 350°F. Fry chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Toast slider buns until golden. Spread garlic aioli on each bun.
- Assemble sliders by layering fried chicken, arugula, and tomato slices between the prepared buns. Serve warm.
