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Honey mustard BLT chicken sliders are fast to make and always a hit for busy weeknights or game night gatherings. The combo of crispy chicken and sweet tangy sauce with creamy avocado and a little smoky bacon just works so well. These sliders fly off the tray as soon as they hit the table.
I whipped these sliders up for an impromptu family movie night and everyone went back for seconds. Now I keep the ingredients on hand for those days when I want an easy crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- King's Hawaiian Pretzel Slider Buns: Offer a soft texture with a salty top that holds up to juicy fillings. Look for fresh packages without any cracks in the bread
- Pepper Jack Cheese: Adds a gentle heat. Opt for slices that feel flexible and creamy rather than rubbery
- Cooked Bacon: Delivers that classic BLT crunch. Go for thicker sliced bacon for extra flavor or cook it yourself until deeply crisp
- Fried Chicken Tenders roughly chopped: Super convenient. To keep it tender inside always use fresh not frozen tenders if possible
- Honey Mustard: The sauce that ties it all together. Choose a brand you love with a real honey base for the best flavor
- Avocado: Brings creaminess. Pick avocados that yield a little when pressed but are not mushy
- Cherry Tomatoes: Add a juicy pop. Look for tomatoes that are bright in color and feel heavy for size
- Flaky Salt: Enhances every flavor. Large sea salt flakes are best for that finishing crunch
Instructions
- Split the Buns:
- Carefully slice each pretzel slider bun in half through the center. Lay all bun halves cut side up on a baking sheet so toasting happens evenly
- Layer Cheese and Bacon:
- Place cheese slices flat on each bun half then douse each with plenty of crumbled bacon. Cover every surface for the ideal cheesy and salty bite
- Broil to Toast and Melt:
- Position the baking sheet under the broiler on high for a few minutes. Watch closely. Remove them once the tops are golden and the cheese is fully melted
- Toss the Chicken in Sauce:
- While buns broil place chopped fried chicken tenders in a bowl. Drizzle over honey mustard then toss until all the chicken is coated in that irresistible sauce
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Top the cheesy bacon buns with saucy chicken. Scatter fresh cubes of avocado and quartered cherry tomatoes over everything. Sprinkle with a big pinch of flaky salt for a burst of flavor
- Finish and Serve:
- Cap each slider with its top bun. Let everyone pull sliders apart and serve with a dish of extra honey mustard for dunking
The flaky salt is my secret finisher and it really sets these apart. My favorite part is the buttery pretzel bun getting a little crisp at the edges just like the ones I remember from summer cookouts.
Storage Tips
Sliders taste best fresh but leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the fridge up to two days. If you want to prep ahead store each ingredient separately. Reheat buns and chicken gently in the oven and assemble right before serving for best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap pepper jack for cheddar or Swiss to suit your tastes. Turkey bacon works well in place of pork bacon and rotisserie chicken can stand in for fried chicken if you are short on time. For a veggie version try crispy baked tofu in place of chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a big green salad or kettle chips for a meal. These also work as game day snacks next to a platter of pickles and carrot sticks. For a party set out extra toppings so everyone can build their own.
Cultural and Historical Context
Sliders are a classic American party food but adding honey mustard and BLT flavors gives a fresh twist. BLT as a sandwich dates back to early twentieth century diners while sliders gained popularity as small burger buns at drive-ins.
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer is perfect for ripe tomatoes and fresh avocado. Try roasted butternut squash cubes in the fall instead of tomato. In winter use chopped romaine or shredded carrots for crunch.
Success Stories
Busy weeknights and last minute gatherings are when this recipe shines. I made these for a block party and everyone raved about the sweet salty flavor combo.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze cooked chicken and bacon separately for future sliders. Just thaw and warm before assembling. Buns freeze well too. Add fresh veggies the day of for peak taste.
Each bite brings a rich blend of savory, creamy, sweet, and tangy. These sliders are sure to steal the show at your next get-together.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different cheese instead of pepper jack?
Absolutely! Swap with cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss for a different flavor profile and just as much meltiness.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm sliders in a 350°F oven for about 7 minutes. This keeps the buns crisp and cheese gooey.
- → Are other breads suitable for these sliders?
Yes, brioche or mini potato buns work well if pretzel buns aren’t available.
- → How do I make these sliders spicier?
Mix a little hot sauce into the honey mustard or use spicy fried chicken tenders.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Definitely! Add lettuce, sliced red onion, or pickles for extra crunch and freshness.