We’ve all craved the irresistible taste of Chick Fil A sliders with their juicy chicken and signature sauce. That’s why we’re excited to share our homemade Chick Fil A Sliders Recipe capturing that fast-food magic in your own kitchen.
It’s easier than you think to recreate these crowd-pleasers using simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for a game day we’ll show you how to make them just as tasty as the originals.
Ingredients
We believe that the heart of our Chick Fil A Sliders Recipe lies in fresh, high-quality ingredients that deliver that signature juicy chicken and tangy sauce. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for accuracy and ease.
Main Ingredients List
To start, gather these for the chicken preparation:
- Chicken tenders or breasts: 1 pound, boneless and skinless, sliced into slider-sized pieces (about 2-3 inches long) for even frying and a tender bite.
- Buttermilk: 1 cup, for marinating to ensure the chicken stays moist and flavorful—chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup, mixed with seasonings for a crispy breading that mimics the original.
- Eggs: 2 large, beaten to create a smooth coating that helps the flour adhere perfectly.
- Seasonings: 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper—combine these for a bold, savory crust.
Next, prepare the sauce components, which add that irresistible zesty kick:
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup, as the base for a creamy texture that binds the flavors.
- Honey: 2 tablespoons, for a touch of sweetness that balances the tang.
- Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon, to deliver sharp, tangy notes reminiscent of the classic sauce.
- Barbecue sauce: 1 tablespoon, for a subtle smoky depth—we recommend a mild variety to stay true to the original.
Finally, for assembly to complete our homemade sliders:
- Slider buns: 12 small, preferably soft brioche or Hawaiian rolls, toasted lightly for a warm, pillowy finish.
- Pickles: 12 slices, dill variety, thinly sliced for that crunchy, vinegary contrast.
This selection ensures our Chick Fil A Sliders Recipe comes together seamlessly, offering a burst of flavors and textures that will impress at any gathering.
Required Equipment
To bring our homemade Chick Fil A sliders to life, we need a few essential tools that ensure smooth preparation and perfect results. Having the right equipment on hand allows us to marinate, bread, fry, and assemble these sliders efficiently, capturing that crave-worthy crunch and flavor.
Basic Kitchen Tools
We recommend starting with these foundational items for mixing and measuring:
- Mixing bowls: Two medium-sized bowls for marinating the chicken in buttermilk and for preparing the seasoned flour mixture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: A set for accurately measuring ingredients like buttermilk, flour, and spices to achieve the signature taste.
- Whisk or fork: For blending the sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring a creamy and tangy consistency.
Cooking and Frying Essentials
Frying the chicken to golden perfection requires specialized gear:
- Deep fryer or large skillet: Ideal for frying the breaded chicken tenders; a deep fryer helps maintain even oil temperature for that crispy exterior we love in Chick Fil A sliders.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: For safely flipping and removing chicken from hot oil, preventing sogginess and ensuring even cooking.
- Thermometer: A kitchen thermometer to monitor oil temperature (aim for 350°F) for optimal frying results.
Assembly and Serving Items
Once the chicken is ready, these tools help with the final touches:
- Cutting board and knife: For slicing dill pickles and any additional toppings to fit perfectly on the slider buns.
- Baking sheet or platter: Useful for resting the fried chicken or assembling sliders before serving, keeping everything organized for family meals or game day gatherings.
With this equipment, we’re set to transform simple ingredients into delicious, restaurant-quality Chick Fil A sliders that rival the originals.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through creating delicious, homemade Chick Fil A sliders step by step for a crispy, flavorful result.
Prepare Ingredients
Before cooking, we focus on prepping our components to ensure maximum flavor and texture in our Chick Fil A sliders. Start by marinating the chicken: place 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into slider-sized pieces in a large mixing bowl and cover with 1 cup of buttermilk mixed with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to tenderize the meat and infuse savory notes.
Next, prepare the breading mixture in a separate bowl by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a spicy, crispy coating. For the signature sauce, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of barbecue sauce in another bowl until smooth and tangy. Finally, slice 6 soft slider buns in half and prepare 12 dill pickle slices to add that classic crunchy element ensuring our sliders mimic the original fast-food favorite.
Cook the Chicken
With ingredients prepped, we move to cooking the chicken for that perfect golden, crispy exterior in our Chick Fil A sliders. Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F using a kitchen thermometer for precise temperature control.
Carefully dip each marinated chicken piece into the flour mixture coating it evenly then shake off excess. Fry the chicken in batches for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F as measured with a thermometer. Use tongs to remove the pieces and drain on a paper-lined plate allowing the irresistibly crispy texture to shine through while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Assemble the Sliders
Finally, we assemble our Chick Fil A sliders to bring together the crispy chicken, tangy sauce, and fresh toppings for a mouthwatering bite. Spread a generous tablespoon of the prepared sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun.
Place a fried chicken piece on top followed by 2 dill pickle slices for that signature zesty contrast. Cap with the top bun and press gently to hold everything in place. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, crunchy exterior against the soft bun and flavorful fillings making our homemade version a crowd-pleasing hit.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To help you enjoy Chick Fil A Sliders with minimal last-minute effort, we offer practical tips for preparing components in advance and storing them safely. This ensures your sliders remain flavorful and crispy, perfect for busy days or meal prep.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We recommend prepping elements of our Chick Fil A Sliders recipe ahead to save time without compromising taste. Follow these steps for seamless preparation:
- Marinate the Chicken: We suggest marinating the chicken in buttermilk and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance. Place the chicken pieces in a sealed container or zip-top bag with the marinade and refrigerate. This step enhances tenderness and infuses maximum flavor, making your sliders juicy and irresistible.
- Prepare the Sauce: Mix the signature sauce—combining mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and barbecue sauce—up to 3 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. We find that letting the flavors meld overnight creates a tangier, creamier kick that elevates the overall experience.
- Bread and Fry the Chicken: For optimal results, bread the chicken and fry it up to 2 hours before serving. After frying to a golden crisp, let it cool on a wire rack. This maintains the crunchy exterior we all love. If frying further in advance, proceed to storage tips below.
Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps your Chick Fil A Sliders fresh and delicious, preserving the savory crust and moist chicken. We advise using these methods based on your needs, with a focus on food safety and quality.
- Refrigeration: Store fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep assembled sliders (with sauce and pickles) separate to prevent sogginess. We recommend wrapping buns individually to maintain their soft texture.
- Freezing: Fried chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. Place cooled pieces on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. For the sauce, freeze in ice cube trays and store portions in a sealed bag. This method locks in the fresh flavors, making it easy to thaw and reheat.
To guide you on storage durations and best practices, here’s a quick reference table:
| Component | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fried Chicken | Up to 3 days | Up to 2 months | Reheat in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. |
| Signature Sauce | Up to 3 days | Up to 1 month | Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before use. |
| Assembled Sliders | Up to 1 day | Not recommended | Consume within 24 hours for best texture; avoid freezing assembled items to prevent sogginess. |
Reheating Guidelines
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored Chick Fil A Sliders, we advise reheating to recapture that freshly fried crunch. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the chicken on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy—opt for the oven to keep things restaurant-quality. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this homemade Chick Fil A sliders recipe, showing how simple it’s to bring that crave-worthy taste right to your kitchen. It’s a fun way to impress family and friends at any gathering, giving you that restaurant-quality flavor without the wait.
Try tweaking it with your favorite twists, and you’ll see why it’s become a go-to in our homes. Enjoy every bite—it’s all about creating memorable meals that keep everyone coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients for Chick Fil A sliders?
The main ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken tenders or breasts, buttermilk for marinating, all-purpose flour mixed with seasonings for breading, and a signature sauce made from mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and barbecue sauce. You’ll also need soft slider buns and dill pickles for assembly. Using high-quality components ensures a juicy, flavorful result that’s easy to recreate at home.
How do I prepare the chicken for Chick Fil A sliders?
Start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk and seasonings for at least 30 minutes to enhance tenderness and flavor. Then, coat it in a seasoned flour mixture for a crispy breading. Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per side. This simple process delivers a taste that’s spot-on with the originals.
What equipment is needed to make Chick Fil A sliders at home?
You’ll need basic kitchen tools like mixing bowls for marinating, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a whisk for the sauce, and a deep fryer or large skillet for frying. Use tongs for handling chicken, a kitchen thermometer to check oil temperature, and a cutting board for assembly. These items make preparation smooth and efficient.
Can I make Chick Fil A sliders ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead. Fry the chicken up to 2 hours before serving. This allows for easy meal prep, perfect for busy days or gatherings, while keeping the sliders fresh and delicious.
How should I store leftover Chick Fil A sliders?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess, ensuring your sliders stay tasty for later enjoyment.