Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

The Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders are a perfect combination of flavor and ease, making them a go-to dish for gatherings, casual dinners, or game days. These sliders feature juicy blackened chicken topped with a creamy Alabama white sauce that adds an irresistible tang. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply craving something delicious, these sliders will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, these sliders are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices in the blackened chicken combined with the tangy Alabama white sauce creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers at parties, main dishes at family dinners, or even as a fun meal for kids.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves sliders! These mini sandwiches are easy to share and can be customized to suit various tastes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then assemble the sliders just before serving for a stress-free experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can help you achieve delicious results with minimal fuss.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Perfect for achieving that signature blackened crust on the chicken while retaining moisture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients, especially when making your Alabama white sauce.

Ingredients

Perfectly seasoned blackened chicken sliders smothered in a tangy homemade Alabama white sauce and topped with shredded lettuce and dill pickles.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs. chicken tenders
• 4 tbsp. olive oil

For the Sliders

• 1 pack Kings Hawaiian slider rolls or dinner rolls
• 1/4 head iceberg lettuce, shredded
• Dill pickle slices (enough for two per sandwich)

For the Blackening Seasoning

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tbsp. fresh parsley (minced)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 2 tbsp. smoked paprika (regular paprika works as a substitute)
• 1 tbsp. cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp. onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon basil
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Alabama White Sauce

• 1 ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoon creamy horseradish
• 2 teaspoon lemon juice (fresh squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For Seasoning to Taste

• salt and pepper to taste (about ½ tsp each)

How to Make Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Start by seasoning your chicken tenders with olive oil and the blackening spices. Ensure they are well coated for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken tenders in the skillet:
– Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
– Remove from heat and let them rest before slicing into slider-sized pieces.

Step 3: Create the Alabama White Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for the Alabama white sauce:
– Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, creamy horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sliders

Take your slider rolls and slice them in half. Layer each bottom half with:
– A piece of blackened chicken,
– A generous spoonful of Alabama white sauce,
– Shredded lettuce,
– Dill pickle slices.
Finally, place the top half of the roll over each assembled slider.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately while warm or keep them covered until ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

Serving Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders is all about enhancing their delicious flavor and presentation. Here are some creative ways to make them even more enjoyable.

With a Side of Crunch

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the spicy chicken.
• Potato Chips: Serve with crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch and easy snacking.
• Pickles: Extra dill pickles on the side can enhance the flavor profile while adding more texture.

Perfect Pairings

• Sweet Tea: This classic Southern drink balances the heat of the blackened chicken beautifully.
• Craft Beer: A light, crisp beer pairs well with these sliders, enhancing the overall experience.
• Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemonade offers a zesty contrast to the savory flavors.

Creative Touches

• Avocado Slices: Adding creamy avocado can provide richness and additional health benefits.
• Hot Sauce Drizzle: For those who love spice, an extra drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the sliders.

How to Perfect Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

Making your Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders truly exceptional is easier than you think. Here are some tips to help you achieve slider perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and herbs will enhance the flavor tremendously.
• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes allows spices to penetrate deeply.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking; aim for juicy tenders by cooking just until done.
• Customize Heat Levels: Adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice preference for a tailored experience.
• Toast the Rolls: Lightly buttering and toasting the slider rolls adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding jalapeños or different cheeses for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

Pairing sides with your Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders enhances your meal. Here are some great options that complement these sliders perfectly.

1. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad provides coolness against the spicy sliders.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and a fun, summery vibe to your meal.
3. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans bring out the flavors in your sliders while offering hearty satisfaction.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes introduce a Southern staple that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries balances out the spiciness of the chicken nicely.
6. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad adds color and nutrients, making it a perfect light pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders can be easy, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland sliders. Make sure to use a good amount of spices for flavor.
• Using the wrong sauce: Opting for a store-bought BBQ sauce instead of homemade Alabama white sauce can alter the taste. Take time to make the sauce for authentic flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Monitor cooking times closely to ensure juicy chicken.
• Choosing poor-quality rolls: Using stale or low-quality rolls can ruin your sliders. Fresh Kings Hawaiian rolls are ideal for the best texture and flavor.
• Neglecting toppings: Forgetting fresh toppings like lettuce and pickles can lessen the overall experience. Always prepare your toppings in advance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

• Freeze sliders individually wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for freshness.
• Properly stored, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap sliders in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sliders in the skillet, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders.

How do I make Alabama White BBQ Sauce?

To make Alabama white sauce, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well until smooth.

Can I use other types of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken tenders with boneless chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer different cuts of meat.

What sides go well with Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair well with coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

How spicy are these Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders?

The spice level depends on how much cayenne pepper you use. Adjust according to your taste preference for milder or spicier sliders.

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Assemble and cook them just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders are a delicious treat that balance flavor and versatility. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste. Give these sliders a try; they’re sure to impress!