We’ve always been fans of the bold flavors in our Jerk Chicken Sliders recipe a fun twist on Jamaican classics. This dish combines spicy jerk seasoning with tender chicken tucked into soft slider buns creating a mouthwatering bite that’s perfect for parties or weeknight dinners.
Originating from Jamaica’s vibrant street food scene jerk chicken brings heat and depth that we’ll show you how to master easily. Whether you’re new to Caribbean cuisine or a longtime lover our version amps up the excitement without overwhelming your kitchen.
Ingredients
As we dive into preparing our flavorful Jerk Chicken Sliders, we start by assembling the key ingredients that bring the bold, spicy essence of Jamaican cuisine to life. We’ve organized this list in the order you’ll use them, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for seamless cooking.
Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, trimmed of excess fat for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption
- 1/4 cup jerk seasoning paste, homemade or store-bought, made with ingredients like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers to deliver that authentic Caribbean heat
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, for marinating and grilling to keep the chicken moist and tender
- 4 cloves garlic, minced, as the aromatic base that infuses the marinade with depth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped, to add a sweet contrast to the spices
Slider Assembly Ingredients
- 8 slider buns, soft and toasted, as the perfect base for holding our spiced chicken
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced, for a tangy topping that balances the jerk’s spiciness
- 1/2 cup red cabbage slaw, shredded and mixed with a light vinaigrette, to provide crunch and freshness
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped, for a burst of herbaceous brightness
- Optional: 1 scotch bonnet pepper, sliced thinly with gloves for handling, if you want to amp up the heat for adventurous eaters
Required Equipment
To bring our Jerk Chicken Sliders to life, we need a few essential tools that make preparation and cooking seamless. Below, we’ve organized the required equipment by category for clarity, ensuring everything aligns with the ingredients we discussed earlier.
Preparation Tools
- Mixing bowl: A large one for combining the jerk seasoning paste, garlic, and onion with the chicken thighs.
- Cutting board: Use a sturdy, non-slip version to safely chop ingredients like fresh pineapple and red cabbage.
- Chef’s knife: Essential for precise slicing and dicing of vegetables and herbs.
Cooking Tools
- Grill or grill pan: Ideal for achieving that authentic smoky flavor on the chicken; preheat to medium-high heat for optimal results.
- Baking sheet: Perfect for toasting the soft slider buns in the oven at 375°F for a few minutes.
- Tongs: Great for flipping the chicken thighs during grilling to ensure even cooking.
Assembly and Serving Tools
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for measuring out the 1/4 cup of jerk seasoning and other precise quantities.
- Serving platter: A simple plate or tray to arrange the assembled sliders with toppings like diced pineapple and fresh cilantro.
This equipment list keeps our process efficient, allowing us to transition smoothly from marinating to serving our flavorful sliders.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment prepared, let’s walk through the steps to create these flavorful Jerk Chicken Sliders. We’ll ensure each phase is straightforward and delivers the bold, spicy taste of Jamaican-inspired cuisine.
Prep
Before cooking, we focus on marinating the chicken and prepping the fresh components for maximum flavor infusion. Start by placing 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup of jerk seasoning paste, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 diced onion, then use your hands or tongs to coat the chicken evenly—aim for full coverage so the spices penetrate deeply and create that signature fiery kick.
Next, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 1 hour, or ideally 4 hours for deeper flavor absorption. While the chicken marinates, prepare the toppings: shred 1 cup of red cabbage for the slaw, dice 1 cup of fresh pineapple into small pieces, and roughly chop a handful of fresh cilantro leaves. If you’re adding extra heat, finely slice 1 optional scotch bonnet pepper and set it aside—these elements will add a refreshing crunch and vibrant contrast to the spicy chicken.
Cook
Once prepped, it’s time to cook the chicken to tender perfection, locking in those aromatic spices. Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high—about 400°F—and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill the thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer—the sizzling sound and smoky aroma will signal the jerk seasoning’s bold flavors coming alive.
For oven baking as an alternative, preheat your oven to 425°F and arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the edges are charred and juices run clear. This step ensures juicy, flavorful results every time, with the spices caramelizing for a mouthwatering, slightly sweet heat.
Assemble
With the chicken cooked, we assemble the sliders for a fun, handheld treat that bursts with texture and taste. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips and divide it among 8 soft toasted slider buns, placing about 2-3 ounces per bun for the ideal portion.
Top each with a spoonful of the red cabbage slaw for crunch, a few pieces of diced fresh pineapple for sweetness, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an herbaceous note. If desired, add the sliced scotch bonnet pepper for an extra fiery punch. Press the buns together gently, and serve immediately—the combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy elements will make these sliders irresistible at any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best parts of our Jerk Chicken Sliders recipe is how easily it lends itself to meal prep. We recommend preparing components in advance to save time while keeping flavors bold and fresh. This approach ensures jerk chicken retains its spicy, smoky essence, making it perfect for busy weeknights or parties.
Marinating the Chicken Ahead
To maximize flavor penetration, we suggest marinating the chicken up to 24 hours in advance:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with 1/4 cup of jerk seasoning paste, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 diced onion. Coat evenly and cover.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container. For optimal results, let it marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight yields the deepest, most authentic Jamaican-inspired taste.
Prepping Toppings and Slaw
Assemble the fresh elements a day ahead to allow flavors to meld without sacrificing crunch:
- For the red cabbage slaw, shred 2 cups of red cabbage and mix with 1/4 cup of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 12 hours.
- Dice 1 cup of fresh pineapple and chop 1/2 cup of cilantro. Keep these separate in airtight bags to maintain their vibrant, sweet-tangy contrast against the spicy chicken.
Cooking and Storing the Chicken
If you want to cook jerk chicken fully ahead, follow these steps for reheating without losing moisture:
- Grill or bake the marinated chicken as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, then cool completely.
- Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.
Storage Tips for Full Sliders
For ultimate convenience, assemble sliders partially ahead but avoid adding buns until serving to prevent sogginess:
- Layer cooked chicken, slaw, pineapple, and cilantro on a platter, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
- If storing longer, keep components separate and assemble right before serving to preserve the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy elements.
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Marinated Chicken | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container in fridge |
| Red Cabbage Slaw | Up to 12 hours | Sealed container in fridge |
| Toppings (Pineapple, Cilantro) | Up to 24 hours | Airtight bags in fridge |
| Cooked Chicken | Up to 3 days | Airtight container in fridge |
| Partially Assembled Sliders | Up to 2 hours | Covered platter in fridge |
Conclusion
We’ve shared this Jerk Chicken Sliders recipe to spark your culinary adventures with bold Jamaican vibes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that elevates any meal with its perfect flavor harmony.
Remember we’re here to inspire more tasty twists in your kitchen so you can enjoy effortless entertaining. Dive in and savor the results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jerk Chicken Sliders?
Jerk Chicken Sliders are a fun twist on Jamaican street food, featuring spicy, flavorful chicken marinated in jerk seasoning and served on soft slider buns. They’re perfect for parties or quick dinners, combining tender chicken with toppings like pineapple and slaw for a balance of heat, sweetness, and tang.
What ingredients are needed for Jerk Chicken Sliders?
You’ll need 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, jerk seasoning paste, olive oil, garlic, onion, soft slider buns, diced pineapple, red cabbage slaw, cilantro, and optional scotch bonnet pepper. These ingredients create a bold, Caribbean-inspired dish that’s easy to prepare with precise measurements provided.
How do you prepare Jerk Chicken Sliders?
Start by marinating chicken thighs in jerk seasoning for maximum flavor. Grill or bake until juicy, then assemble on toasted buns with red cabbage slaw, fresh pineapple, cilantro, and optional pepper. The process is straightforward, taking about 30-45 minutes of active time for delicious results.
Can I make Jerk Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. Prep toppings and slaw a day ahead, and cook chicken then store it refrigerated for up to 3 days. Assemble sliders just before serving to keep buns from getting soggy, making this recipe ideal for meal prep.
What equipment is required for Jerk Chicken Sliders?
You’ll need basic tools like a mixing bowl, cutting board, chef’s knife, grill or grill pan, baking sheet, and measuring cups. These items keep the process efficient, from marinating to assembling, ensuring a seamless cooking experience without specialized gear.
How spicy are Jerk Chicken Sliders?
They have a bold, spicy kick from jerk seasoning and optional scotch bonnet pepper, but you can adjust the heat level. Start with the base recipe for moderate spice and add more pepper if desired, making it accessible for newcomers while satisfying fans of Caribbean flavors.