Craving a flavorful, fun, and easy weeknight meal? Look no further! These grilled chicken sliders are the perfect answer for busy cooks who want a delicious and healthy dinner on the table in minutes. These easy recipes are perfect for a casual get-together or a satisfying family meal. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with these best recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 slider buns
- Your favorite slider toppings (suggestions below!)
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Make sure every piece is well-seasoned.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the tastier it becomes!
Grilling the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Assembling the Sliders:
- Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Lightly toast the slider buns, if desired.
- Place the chicken strips on the bottom halves of the buns.
- Add your favorite toppings.
Slider Topping Suggestions:
- Classic: Lettuce, tomato, onion, mayonnaise, and pickles.
- Spicy: Jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, chipotle mayo.
- BBQ: BBQ sauce, coleslaw, crispy onions.
- Mediterranean: Hummus, feta cheese, cucumber, and tomatoes.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Sliders:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Leave space between the chicken breasts for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest prevents it from becoming dry.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Herb it up: Include fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano in the marinade for a more aromatic flavor.
- Change the protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey, pork, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per slider, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: Around 20-25g
- Fat: Around 10-15g
These quick dinner ideas are not only delicious but also a healthy meal option packed with protein. This recipe for grilled chicken sliders is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade cooking!