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This hearty BBQ Chicken and Waffle Sliders recipe brings together the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors in bite-sized form. These mini treats feature tender BBQ chicken nestled between crispy waffle rounds, creating an irresistible fusion that works equally well for brunch gatherings or as game day snacks.
I first created these sliders when hosting a last-minute Super Bowl party. With limited time and hungry guests arriving soon, I combined leftover waffle batter with some BBQ chicken. The unexpected pairing was such a hit that friends now specifically request them whenever they visit.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: These stay juicier than breast meat and shred beautifully. Choose thighs for more flavor or breasts for leaner options.
- BBQ sauce: The backbone of flavor here. Select a sauce with depth – I prefer ones with a balance of sweetness, smoke, and tang.
- Waffle mix: Saves tremendous time without sacrificing taste. Look for buttermilk varieties for extra flavor.
- Cheddar or pepper jack cheese: Adds creaminess and helps bind the sliders. Freshly grated melts more evenly than pre-shredded.
- Smoked paprika and garlic powder: Creates depth in the chicken seasoning. The smokiness complements the BBQ sauce perfectly.
- Pickle chips: Optional but highly recommended for their acidity that cuts through the richness. Look for thicker-cut bread and butter pickles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare and Cook Chicken:
- Season your chicken generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, making sure to coat all sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. Add chicken and sear for a full 5 to 6 minutes per side without disturbing it too much – this develops a flavorful crust. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for 3 minutes before shredding with two forks, pulling in opposite directions. Immediately toss with warm BBQ sauce so the meat absorbs all that flavor.
- Create the Mini Waffles:
- Preheat your waffle iron until the indicator shows it's properly heated. While it warms, prepare the waffle batter according to package instructions, being careful not to overmix which can make tough waffles. Coat the iron with cooking spray or butter before each batch. Pour small portions of batter to create mini rounds or cook full-sized waffles that you'll cut later. Cook until the steam subsides and waffles are golden brown and crisp around the edges – this usually takes 3 to 5 minutes depending on your iron.
- Assemble Your Sliders:
- Take one mini waffle and place half a slice of cheese on top. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the warm BBQ chicken over the cheese allowing the residual heat to begin melting it. Add a pickle chip if using. Top with a second waffle round pressing down gently to create your slider. For optimal melty cheese place the assembled sliders in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
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The smoked paprika is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its importance accidentally when I ran out once and made the dish without it. The difference was remarkable – the paprika adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the entire slider. My nephew now refuses to eat them unless I've added "the special red spice" as he calls it.
Make-Ahead Options
These sliders work beautifully as a prep-ahead meal. You can cook and shred the chicken up to two days in advance storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve simply reheat the chicken with a splash of extra BBQ sauce to restore moisture. The waffles can also be made ahead and frozen. Just pop them in a toaster to revive their crispness before assembly. This approach saves tremendous time when entertaining.
Flavor Variations
While the classic version is delicious you can customize these sliders in countless ways. Try a Korean-inspired version using gochujang BBQ sauce and topping with quick-pickled cucumbers. For a Southern twist substitute the BBQ sauce with Nashville hot chicken seasoning and add a drizzle of honey. Apple butter makes a surprisingly delicious addition when spread lightly on the inside of the waffles especially during fall gatherings. Each variation maintains the sweet-savory balance that makes these sliders special.
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Serving Suggestions
These sliders shine as part of a larger spread. Pair them with a tangy coleslaw whose acidity cuts through the richness perfectly. For brunch settings serve alongside fresh fruit and a mimosa bar. At dinner they complement roasted vegetables or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. For game day present them on a platter surrounded by other finger foods like loaded potato skins and vegetable crudités. The versatility of these sliders makes them appropriate for virtually any casual dining occasion.
Common Questions
- → Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
You can prepare the BBQ chicken and waffles separately up to a day in advance. Store the chicken in the refrigerator and reheat before assembly. For best results, warm the waffles in a toaster or oven before assembling to maintain crispiness. Assemble just before serving for optimal texture.
- → What's the best type of BBQ sauce to use?
This recipe works with any BBQ sauce you prefer. Sweet and smoky varieties complement the waffles nicely, while spicier sauces create a delicious contrast. For a homemade touch, mix your favorite BBQ sauce with a little honey, maple syrup, or bourbon to enhance the flavor profile.
- → Can I make these sliders vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with plant-based alternatives like jackfruit simmered in BBQ sauce, which shreds similarly to chicken. Other options include BBQ tempeh, tofu, or even roasted and shredded vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms tossed in BBQ sauce.
- → How do I make mini waffles without a special waffle maker?
If you don't have a mini waffle maker, use a regular waffle iron and cut the finished waffles into quarters or appropriate slider-sized portions. Alternatively, you can use a pancake pan with small divots to make silver dollar-sized pancakes, though the texture will be different from waffles.
- → What sides pair well with these sliders?
Classic pairings include creamy coleslaw, crispy french fries, or sweet potato fries. A light green salad provides nice contrast to the rich sliders. For brunch, serve with fresh fruit or breakfast potatoes. For entertaining, offer a variety of dipping sauces like honey butter, maple syrup, or spicy aioli.
- → Can I freeze these sliders?
The BBQ chicken filling freezes well for up to 3 months in an airtight container. The waffles can also be frozen separately, with parchment paper between each to prevent sticking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat waffles in a toaster before assembling. Complete sliders don't freeze well as the textures will deteriorate.