As I scrolled through my favorite food blogs, a mouthwatering image caught my eye: a towering slider stacked with crispy chicken and waffles, dripping with a spicy chipotle honey sauce. The idea of combining the savory crunch of fried chicken with the sweet, fluffy comfort of cornmeal waffles felt like a delicious revolution just waiting to happen. That’s how I stumbled upon these Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders, your new go-to quick appetizer for gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its incredible taste but also in its effortless prep—a crowd-pleaser that’ll have you back in the kitchen in no time! So, ready to elevate your weekend feasts with a twist on classic comfort food? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to deliver both heat and sweetness in every bite.
Why are these sliders a must-try?
Irresistible flavors come together in these sliders, where spicy meets sweet for the ultimate taste sensation. Easy to make, perfect for a quick appetizer or gathering, you’ll impress your friends without the hassle. Versatile options abound; substitute ingredients or experiment with different sauces for unique twists. Crowd-pleaser vibes guaranteed; everyone will be reaching for seconds! Pair these sliders with refreshing sides like coleslaw or serve with extra chipotle honey sauce for dipping—delicious! Don’t miss out on this fusion of classic comfort food vibes.
Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders Ingredients
For the Sliders
• Frozen Crispy Chicken Strips – A main protein source that’s quick and easy; homemade fried chicken is a delicious alternative.
• Corn Muffin Mix – This creates the base for the waffles; pancake or waffle mix works well too.
• Large Eggs – Helps bind the waffle batter together; opt for flax eggs for a vegan option if desired.
• Butter (Melted) – Adds richness and moisture; vegetable oil can be used for a dairy-free substitute.
• Buttermilk – Ensures tenderness in the waffles; mix milk with vinegar as a simple substitute.
• Jalapeno – Infuses heat into the waffles; omit it or use milder peppers to tone down the spice.
For the Chipotle Honey Sauce
• Honey – Provides sweetness and depth for the sauce; agave syrup can be utilized as a substitute.
• Chipotle Adobo – Delivers a smoky spiciness; feel free to replace with your favorite hot sauce.
• Lime Juice – Balances the sweetness of the sauce perfectly; lemon juice works just as well.
• Water – Adjusts the sauce’s consistency; omit it if no additional liquid is needed.
• Garlic (Pressed) – Enhances the flavor profile of the sauce; garlic powder serves well if fresh isn’t available.
• Salt – Elevates the overall flavor of the sauce.
Note: The combination of these ingredients creates a memorable bite that defines why Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders are a must-try.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the frozen crispy chicken strips evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, ensuring they are fully heated through before assembling your sliders.
Step 2: Prepare the Waffle Batter
While the chicken is baking, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In a large mixing bowl, combine corn muffin mix, large eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, and finely diced jalapeño. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, ensuring that no lumps remain in your batter for the best texture in your Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders.
Step 3: Cook the Waffles
Once your waffle iron is ready, generously spray the molds with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour ¼ cup of the prepared batter into each section of the waffle iron and close the lid. Cook until steaming stops, which usually takes about 3–5 minutes, resulting in warm, fluffy waffles with a slight crisp on the outside.
Step 4: Make the Chipotle Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine honey, chipotle adobo, lime juice, water, pressed garlic, and a pinch of salt. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. This will create a flavorful chipotle honey sauce that adds a delicious kick to your chicken sliders.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Remove the crispy chicken strips from the oven and transfer them into a large bowl. Drizzle the freshly made chipotle honey sauce over the chicken, then toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Ensure every crispy strip is enveloped in that tasty sauce, elevating your Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders with an irresistible flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
To create your delicious sliders, take one waffle as a base and place a piece of the coated chicken on top. Add another waffle on top to create a delightful sandwich. You can garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and a pop of color. Repeat this process until all your sliders are assembled, ready to wow your guests!
What to Serve with Spicy Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Serving these delightful Sliders brings a world of flavor right to your table, making each meal special and satisfying.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy sliders, elevating the overall experience.
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Garlic Parmesan Fries: These crispy, savory fries complement the sweet and spicy notes of the sliders while adding an irresistible crunch to every bite.
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Sweet Potato Mash: The creamy texture and natural sweetness of sweet potato mash balance the heat of the chipotle honey sauce beautifully.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Provide a refreshing touch with a colorful mix of seasonal fruits that cleanse the palate between sliders.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider will enhance the flavors of the dish while offering a cozy, comforting beverage option.
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Crispy Tornado Potatoes: The spiral shape adds a whimsical touch to your meal, with their crispy exterior and soft interior enhancing the slider experience.
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Charred Corn Salad: The smoky flavor of charred corn perfectly complements the sliders, adding freshness and crunch with every mouthful.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Serve these warm and gooey for dessert, as their sweetness wraps up the meal on a delightful note.
Expert Tips for Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders
- Crispy Chicken: Ensure the chicken strips are completely crispy before assembly to avoid soggy sliders. Bake them until golden brown for the best texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the waffle batter, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense waffles that won’t fluff up properly.
- Adjust Spice: Taste the chipotle honey sauce as you go and adjust the chipotle adobo to fit your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure!
- Serve Fresh: Assemble and serve the sliders immediately after cooking to maintain the crispiness of the waffles. They can become mushy if left too long.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the corn muffin mix for pancake or waffle mix to suit your taste, keeping this Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders recipe versatile.
Variations for Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Feel free to get creative with these sliders and switch things up based on your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and buttermilk with almond milk + lemon juice for a creamy alternative.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free corn muffin mix and ensure your chicken strips are certified gluten-free for a safe option.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced serrano or habanero peppers into the waffle batter for an extra heat boost. The more heat, the more flavor!
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Herby Delight: Mix fresh herbs like chives or parsley into the waffle batter for an aromatic twist. It harmonizes beautifully with the chicken.
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Crispy Bacon: Layer crispy bacon strips between the chicken and waffles. The salty, savory bite complements the sweet chipotle sauce perfectly.
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Syrup Swap: Instead of chipotle honey sauce, try warm maple syrup infused with cinnamon for a sweeter take. It’s a classic combo that never disappoints.
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Veggie Option: Opt for crispy baked zucchini or eggplant slices instead of chicken for a satisfying vegetarian version.
Consider pairing these sliders with a refreshing side like coleslaw or a tangy dip, similar to what you’d enjoy with a tasty Chicken Caesar Sandwich. If you’re after a different comforting favorite, don’t forget to check out the Chicken Stuffing Casserole. Enjoy experimenting!
Make Ahead Options
These Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders are ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the waffle batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the freshest taste while saving time. Additionally, the chipotle honey sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its flavor. When you’re ready to serve, heat your chicken strips in the oven for 10 minutes to crisp them up again, reheat the sauce gently, and assemble your sliders. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, freshly assembled sliders with minimal effort, perfect for impressing family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Fridge: Store assembled sliders in an airtight container for up to 1 day. To retain freshness, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: If you want to freeze your sliders, separate the chicken and waffles and store them in airtight containers. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until crispy. For the waffles, toast them briefly until warmed through.
Leftover Sauce: Keep extra chipotle honey sauce in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week; it’s perfect for drizzling on other dishes!
Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe jalapeños for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for jalapeños that are firm and glossy, with smooth skin. Avoid those with dark spots or shriveled skin, as they may be past their prime. A fresh jalapeño should feel heavy for its size, indicating high moisture content and flavor.
How should I store leftover sliders?
To keep your Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. For best results, layer wax paper or parchment between the sliders to prevent sticking. Reheat in an oven to maintain their crispiness when ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze the sliders?
Certainly! For freezing, separate the chicken and waffles. Place both in airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in an oven until crispy, and toast the waffles until warmed through—this ensures a delightful texture!
What should I do if my waffles turn out dense?
The secret to fluffy waffles is not to overmix the batter. Mix until just combined to avoid activating too much gluten, which can lead to density. If they still seem thick, try adding a splash of additional buttermilk or water to loosen the batter a bit.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re serving guests with allergies, note that the recipe contains gluten (from the corn muffin mix) and possibly dairy (from the buttermilk and butter). For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free corn muffin mix and substitute the buttermilk with almond or oat milk mixed with vinegar. Always check labels to ensure no hidden allergens.
How do I adjust the spice level in the chipotle honey sauce?
Very easily! Start by adding a smaller amount of chipotle adobo and taste as you go. You can always add more if you crave extra heat. If you want to tone down the spice significantly, consider using a milder hot sauce instead or mix in a bit of extra honey to balance the heat with sweetness. Remember, it’s all about what you enjoy!
Irresistible Chipotle Honey Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the frozen crispy chicken strips evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20 minutes.
- While the chicken is baking, preheat your waffle iron. In a large bowl, combine corn muffin mix, large eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, and finely diced jalapeño. Stir until smooth.
- Generously spray the waffle iron molds with nonstick cooking spray. Pour ¼ cup of the batter into each section and cook until steaming stops, about 3-5 minutes.
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, chipotle adobo, lime juice, water, pressed garlic, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Remove the crispy chicken strips from the oven. Drizzle the chipotle honey sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece.
- To assemble the sliders, take one waffle as a base, place a piece of coated chicken on it, and add another waffle on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
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