Get ready to revolutionize your slider game with these mouthwatering Oven Fried Chicken Sliders that promise restaurant-quality flavor without the deep-frying mess! Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken tender nestled in a soft slider bun, topped with a creamy, smoky roasted red pepper aioli that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're hosting a game day party, looking for a quick family dinner, or craving a delicious handheld meal, these sliders are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 6 slider buns
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken marinade by combining buttermilk, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a large bowl. Add chicken tenders and ensure they are completely covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Season breadcrumbs with additional salt and pepper in a shallow dish.
- Coat each chicken tender thoroughly in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure even coverage. Place breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While chicken is baking, prepare the roasted red pepper aioli. In a food processor or blender, combine roasted red peppers, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Toast slider buns lightly in the oven during the last 2-3 minutes of chicken cooking time.
- Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes. Cut tenders to fit slider buns if necessary.
- Assemble sliders by placing a chicken tender on each bun and generously spreading roasted red pepper aioli on top.
- Serve immediately while chicken is hot and crispy.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the buttermilk marinade! The longer the chicken sits (up to 4 hours), the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
- Breadcrumb Perfection: Press breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to create a crispy, even coating that will give you that satisfying crunch.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
- Aioli Hack: For extra flavor, try roasting your own red peppers or using fire-roasted peppers from a jar for a deeper, smokier taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the chicken and aioli in advance and quickly assemble the sliders when ready to serve, making it perfect for entertaining.
- Customize Your Sliders: Feel free to add lettuce, tomato, or pickles for extra texture and flavor variations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
