Smoky Jalapeño Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders With Creamy Spread

Craving a bite-sized burst of flavor? These Smoky Jalapeño Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders are about to become your new obsession! Tender, juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a smoky-sweet sauce, grilled to perfection, and nestled in soft brioche buns with a creamy, subtly spicy jalapeño-infused spread. They’re perfect for game day, summer barbecues, or a fun weeknight meal. Prepare to impress your friends and family with these incredibly delicious and easy-to-make sliders!

What You’ll Need

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs: We’re using chicken thighs here because they stay incredibly moist and flavorful during grilling. Look for thighs that are roughly the same size for even cooking. Trimming any excess fat will help with a cleaner grilling process.
• 3 tbsp (45 ml) honey: A good quality honey adds sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze. Raw or wildflower honey will provide a more complex flavor profile.
• 3 tbsp (45 ml) Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard provides a tangy base for the marinade. Choose a smooth Dijon for a consistent texture.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) whole-grain mustard: Whole-grain mustard adds texture and a slightly more rustic flavor to complement the Dijon.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) smoked paprika: This is where the ‘smoky’ magic happens! Smoked paprika adds a deep, rich smoky flavor without needing to smoke the chicken directly.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a convenient and consistent garlic flavor throughout the marinade.
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml) salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the marinade. Use kosher salt for best results.
• ¼ tsp (1.25 ml) black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil: Used for grilling, olive oil helps prevent the chicken from sticking and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
• 100g (3.5 oz) halal-certified cream cheese: Softened cream cheese forms the base of our creamy spread. Using full-fat cream cheese will give you the richest texture. Halal-certified ensures it meets specific dietary requirements.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey (for spread): A touch of honey in the spread balances the spice and adds a subtle sweetness.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Dijon mustard (for spread): Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick to the creamy spread.
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (about 1 tsp): The jalapeño provides a delightful heat to the spread. Removing the seeds and membranes reduces the intensity of the spice.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) fresh lime juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors of the spread and adds a zesty touch.
• 8 mini brioche slider buns (or small dinner rolls): Brioche buns are soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for sliders. Dinner rolls can be substituted if brioche isn’t available.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish): Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a beautiful visual appeal.
• Fresh cilantro leaves (optional garnish): Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor and a pop of color.

Substitutions & Variations

Don’t have an ingredient on hand? No problem! Here are a few easy substitutions:

• Chicken Thighs: Chicken breasts can be used, but they may become drier. Be sure not to overcook them.
• Brioche Buns: Hawaiian rolls or potato rolls make excellent substitutes.
• Smoked Paprika: Regular paprika can be used, but you’ll miss out on the smoky flavor. Consider adding a drop of liquid smoke to the marinade.
• Jalapeño: Serrano peppers can be used for more heat, or omit entirely for a milder spread.

Let’s Build These Smoky Jalapeño Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders!

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and let the chicken marinate, it’s time to bring these flavorful sliders to life. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better – up to 4 hours for maximum flavor penetration.
2. Prepare the Creamy Jalapeño Spread: While the chicken marinates, create the star of the show: the creamy jalapeño spread. In a separate small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, honey, Dijon mustard, minced jalapeño, and fresh lime juice. Stir vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – add a pinch more salt or a dash of lime juice for extra zing. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Preheat Your Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 190°C / 375°F). A hot grill is crucial for achieving those beautiful char marks and locking in the chicken’s juices.
4. Grill the Chicken: Lightly brush the marinated chicken thighs with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
5. Rest and Slice the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. After resting, slice the chicken thighs into thin strips against the grain.
6. Toast the Buns: Slice the mini brioche slider buns in half. Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil (optional) and toast them on the grill for about 1 minute, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds a delightful texture to the sliders.
7. Assemble the Sliders: Now for the fun part! Spread a generous layer of the jalapeño honey-mustard cream cheese on the bottom half of each toasted slider bun. Layer with the sliced grilled chicken strips. Drizzle a little of the pan-collected glaze (from grilling the chicken) over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds (if using) and finish with the top bun.
8. Garnish and Serve: Arrange the assembled sliders on a wooden board or plate. Drizzle a thin ribbon of the remaining honey-mustard glaze across the plate for visual appeal. Scatter a few fresh cilantro leaves and extra sesame seeds for a pop of color and added texture. Serve the sliders warm and enjoy!

The Secret to Smoky Flavor

The key to the incredible smoky flavor in these sliders lies in the smoked paprika. Using high-quality smoked paprika is essential – it’s not just about the spice, but the depth of smoky aroma it imparts to the chicken. Don’t skimp on this ingredient! The combination of smoked paprika with the honey and mustard creates a complex and irresistible flavor profile.

Why Chicken Thighs?

While chicken breast is a popular choice, chicken thighs are superior for grilling and sliders. They remain incredibly moist and tender even with longer cooking times, and their higher fat content contributes to a richer, more flavorful experience. The dark meat also holds up better to the robust flavors of the marinade and spread.

Adjusting the Heat Level

Jalapeños can vary in their heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before mincing it. For a milder spread, start with just half a jalapeño and taste as you go. Conversely, if you love heat, leave some of the seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spread.

Make-Ahead Tips for Easy Entertaining

These sliders are perfect for parties! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the cream cheese spread up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Grill the chicken and toast the buns just before serving to ensure maximum freshness. Assembling the sliders shortly before serving prevents the buns from getting soggy.

Serving Suggestions & Side Dishes

These Smoky Jalapeño Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh coleslaw, a simple green salad, or even some crunchy pickle spears. A light and refreshing beverage, like iced tea or lemonade, complements the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? While you can, chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it.
• Can I make the sliders ahead of time? It’s best to assemble the sliders just before serving to prevent the buns from getting soggy.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? The slider buns are not typically gluten-free. Use gluten-free buns for a gluten-free version.

These Smoky Jalapeño Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders are a flavor explosion in every bite! The combination of smoky, sweet, spicy, and creamy is simply irresistible. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest so you can easily make it again and again!

Smoky Jalapeño Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders With Creamy Spread

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• Author: Emily Madona
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 sliders 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

These Smoky Jalapeño Honey Mustard Chicken Sliders feature tender chicken thighs marinated in a smoky-sweet sauce, grilled, and served on brioche buns with a creamy jalapeño spread. They’re perfect for gatherings or a flavorful weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500g (1.1 lb) chicken thighs, trimmed
• 3 tbsp (45 ml) honey, wildflower recommended
• 3 tbsp (45 ml) Dijon mustard, smooth
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) whole-grain mustard
• 1 tsp (5 ml) smoked paprika
• 1 tsp (5 ml) garlic powder
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml) salt, kosher
• ¼ tsp (1.25 ml) black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
• 100g (3.5 oz) cream cheese, softened, halal-certified
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey (for spread)
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Dijon mustard (for spread)
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded & minced (1 tsp)
• 1 tsp (5 ml) lime juice, fresh
• 8 mini brioche slider buns
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
• Cilantro leaves, fresh (optional)

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Instructions

1. Marinate Chicken: Combine honey, mustards, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken, refrigerate 30-240 minutes.
2. Make Spread: Blend cream cheese, honey, Dijon, jalapeño, and lime juice until smooth. Refrigerate.
3. Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (190°C / 375°F).
4. Grill Chicken: Brush chicken with olive oil. Grill 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through (74°C / 165°F).
5. Rest & Slice: Rest chicken 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
6. Toast Buns: Lightly toast slider buns.
7. Assemble Sliders: Spread jalapeño spread on buns, add chicken, drizzle with glaze, and garnish.

Notes

Marinating the chicken for longer enhances flavor. Resting the chicken ensures juiciness. Adjust jalapeño amount to control spice level.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 sliders
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg