Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken breast, boneless and skinless; 1/4 cup honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Sliced pickles

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love these Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders! The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s perfect for any gathering. Every time I make these sliders, they disappear in minutes. They’re incredibly simple to prepare, yet look impressive on a serving platter. So whether it’s a game day or a casual get-together, these sliders are my go-to recipe. The build-your-own element also allows everyone to customize their sliders to their liking, making them a hit with both family and friends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T21:07:27.555Z

When I first decided to make Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders, I was looking for a dish that could impress but didn’t require hours in the kitchen. After several experiments, I discovered that marinating the chicken in a mix of honey and garlic gives it incredible flavor while keeping it tender. Simply grilling or baking the chicken locks in the juice and ensures each slider is a burst of taste.

What really sells these sliders for me is the simple assembly. I toast the slider buns to give them a delightful crunch, then assemble with fresh veggies and drizzle extra honey garlic sauce on top. It’s a winning combination every time, and my family can’t get enough of them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory flavor combination that pleases the palate
Easy assembly for both kids and adults to enjoy
Perfectly sized for parties and gatherings

      

Marinating Your Chicken

The marination process is essential for infusing the chicken with the sweet and savory flavors of the honey and garlic. When combining the marinade, ensure that every piece of chicken is thoroughly coated. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Ideally, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but for even better results, you can marinate it overnight. Just be mindful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity in the soy sauce can break down the chicken too much.

For those who prefer a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade. This not only complements the existing flavors but also adds a subtle complexity that elevates these sliders. The textures obtained through marination will create a juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with your choice of toppings.

Cooking Techniques

When it comes to cooking the marinated chicken, you have flexibility. While grilling is a popular choice, using a cast iron skillet or even a broiler can yield delicious results as well. If you opt for grilling, ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear; look for golden edges and grill marks, which typically take about 6-7 minutes per side.

If you're using an oven, preheat to about 400°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe 165°F. This guarantees not only safety but also a juicy texture that is essential for a satisfying slider.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

Part of the charm of these sliders is the build-your-own element, which encourages creativity. While I love serving them with the classic toppings of lettuce, tomato, and pickles, consider enhancing flavor profiles by adding crispy bacon, tangy slaw, or even a dollop of spicy mayo. These additional toppings can completely transform the eating experience and keep everyone at the table intrigued.

For make-ahead options, prepare the chicken and marinate it the night before, or even cook it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, you can simply assemble the sliders when your guests arrive. If you do have leftovers, store the chicken separately from any toppings to maintain freshness, and it can be reheated easily on a stovetop or in the microwave for quick lunches during the week.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting your sliders:

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken

2 lbs chicken breast, boneless and skinless
1/4 cup honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For Sliders

12 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced pickles

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and ensure it's well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Prepare the Sliders

While the chicken is cooking, toast the slider buns lightly. Once the chicken is done, slice it into smaller pieces suitable for the sliders.

Assemble

Place a piece of chicken on each slider bun, top with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Drizzle additional honey garlic sauce over the top if desired.

Serve

Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders!

Enjoy your sliders with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add coleslaw or crispy onions to your sliders. They enhance the crunch and freshness, making each bite even more delightful.

Ingredient Insights

The chicken breast is the heart of this recipe, providing a lean protein base that balances beautifully with the sweetness of honey. Opting for boneless and skinless pieces not only makes preparation easier but also allows for a uniform cooking experience, ensuring tenderness in every bite. You can also substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor; they tend to stay juicier even when cooked longer.

Honey acts as both a sweetener and a glaze, creating a delightful stickiness that enhances the sliders' eating experience. If you're looking for a lower sugar alternative, agave syrup or brown rice syrup can be utilized. However, adjust the quantities slightly, as these alternatives can vary in sweetness.

Storage Tips

After your gathering, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes for great quick meal options; just slice and serve on salads or in wraps. If you want to extend the shelf life, freezing the cooked chicken is an excellent option. Wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to three months.

When reheating, try to use low heat on the stovetop or microwave to avoid drying the chicken out. Add a splash of water or extra honey garlic sauce when reheating to retain moisture and enhance the flavor. This way, your sliders will remain flavorful and succulent even after they've been stored.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add richness to the sliders.

→ How can I make the sliders spicier?

Add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the marinade or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.

→ Can these sliders be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and cook it just before serving.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

French fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh salad make great accompaniments!