Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 sliders
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 slider buns; 1 cup coleslaw mix; Sliced cucumbers (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love these Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders! The combination of juicy chicken drizzled with a sticky honey garlic sauce creates an irresistible flavor that’s perfect for any gathering. We enjoyed these sliders at our last family BBQ, and they were a hit! The sweet and savory blend really complements the freshness of the slider buns, making it a delight for both kids and adults. Trust me, once you try these, they will become your go-to dish for easy entertaining or just a cozy night in.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T23:13:28.046Z

When I first experimented with these Honey Garlic Chicken Sliders, I knew I wanted to create something sweet yet savory. The honey and garlic work together beautifully to glaze tender chicken, and the addition of fresh vegetables makes every bite refreshing.

I discovered that marinating the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for just a brief time enhances the flavors significantly. It’s a quick method that yields delicious results, especially when paired with crisp slider buns. This recipe has turned into a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Sweet and savory honey garlic glaze that’s irresistible
Juicy chicken nestled in a soft slider bun
Perfect for parties, game day, or casual family dinners

      

Marinade Magic

The marinade for the Honey Garlic Chicken is where the magic happens. Mixing honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a sticky glaze that not only enhances the chicken's flavor but also helps to tenderize it. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes is essential, but for maximum flavor, consider marinating it for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. Ensure the chicken is fully coated by turning it occasionally during the marinating process.

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs is a great choice for sliders due to their juiciness and ability to absorb flavors. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, you can substitute them, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they remain moist. Keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.

Assembly and Serving Suggestions

When assembling the sliders, consider the layers carefully. Start with a fluffy slider bun that acts as a base, then add a generous helping of shredded chicken on top. Following that, the crispness of coleslaw not only adds texture but also balances the dish with its tangy flavor. For an extra crunch, opt for pickled cucumbers instead of fresh ones, which will give a delightful zing that complements the sweetness of the chicken.

These sliders are versatile and can be served with various sides. For a refreshing touch, pair them with a light fruit salad or a zesty potato salad. If you're looking to provide a heartier meal, consider serving them with sweet potato fries or a side of baked beans, which can add some nostalgia and depth to your gathering. Experimenting with different toppings like spicy mayo or jalapeños can also bring an exciting twist to the sliders.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients to make these delicious sliders:

Chicken and Sauce

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sliders

6 slider buns
1 cup coleslaw mix
Sliced cucumbers (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Ensure you have all these ingredients ready for a quick assembly!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your sliders:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Mix well. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown.

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks.

Assemble the Sliders

Place a generous portion of shredded chicken on each slider bun, top with coleslaw mix, sliced cucumbers, and cilantro. Drizzle extra honey garlic sauce if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm and enjoy with your favorite sides!

These sliders are best served immediately while the chicken is warm and juicy.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider toasting the slider buns lightly before assembling. This adds a nice crunch and helps the buns hold up against the juicy chicken.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the buns fresh, separate the filling from the bread and store them together. You can quickly reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until it's warmed through, about 3-5 minutes. If you're reheating the buns, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, ensuring they don’t dry out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and it can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions for a delicious meal almost instantly.

Flavor Variations

While the classic honey garlic flavor is delightful, feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create new variations. Adding sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade can introduce a lovely kick, perfect for those who enjoy spicy food. Alternatively, using a teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce can bring a different sweetness and flavor profile that can be very appealing in the sliders.

For a more aromatic touch, consider adding grated ginger to the marinade. It pairs beautifully with garlic and honey, enhancing the overall flavor complexity. A few sesame seeds sprinkled on top of the assembled sliders will also add a nice crunch and visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they're juicy.

→ How can I make these sliders spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes to the marinade or serve the sliders with a spicy sauce on the side.

→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a few hours ahead of time and cook it just before serving.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

These sliders go fantastically with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or even roasted vegetables.