Name: Mexican Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken breast; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon oil

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Whenever I think of gatherings with friends, one dish that always comes to mind is Mexican Chicken Sliders. There’s something about the fusion of flavors that instantly transports me to a fiesta atmosphere. I remember the first time I made these sliders for a small get-together, and the way everyone gushed over them made my heart swell with joy. The satisfying crunch of the outside contrasts perfectly with the juicy, flavorful filling, making them an instant crowd favorite. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, letting you enjoy the party without being stuck in the kitchen. I love how versatile these sliders are too; you can dress them up with all sorts of toppings or keep them simple. Every bite is a little adventure, and they’re perfect for sharing!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
18 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
8 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
260 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife

Why This Mexican Chicken Sliders Works

Flavor Explosion

The first thing that sets Mexican Chicken Sliders apart is the explosion of flavors. Each slider boasts a harmonious blend of spices, particularly the cumin and cilantro, which give it a fresh and zesty profile. You’ll find yourself reaching for more, as these sliders hit all the right notes of savory and aromatic goodness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These sliders are incredibly versatile! Whether it’s a casual lunch, an afternoon picnic, or a fun game night, Mexican Chicken Sliders fit right in. You can easily scale the recipe up or down, making them ideal for any gathering size.

Easy to Make

If you’re short on time, worry not! This recipe is one that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. The prep is straightforward—mix, form patties, and cook. It’s a fantastic option for busy weekdays or last-minute parties.

Family-Friendly

Even picky eaters will love these sliders. The chicken is tender and juicy, with a mild flavor that appeals to children and adults alike. You can customize toppings for everyone’s preference, allowing each person to create their perfect slider.

Affordable Ingredients

Another bonus is that the ingredients for Mexican Chicken Sliders are budget-friendly. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a delicious meal that won’t break the bank. This makes it a fantastic option for families looking to stretch their dollar without sacrificing taste.

Mexican Chicken Sliders Ingredients

The ingredients for Mexican Chicken Sliders work together to create a delightful flavor profile. The star ingredient, ground chicken, is lean yet flavorful, making it the perfect base. Coupled with aromatic spices like cumin and garlic powder, and fresh cilantro, these sliders promise a burst of taste in every bite.

1 pound ground chicken breast: The main ingredient that provides protein and serves as the base for your sliders.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a refreshing flavor that brightens up the dish.
1 teaspoon cumin: A warm spice that brings depth and richness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of garlic.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds sweetness and savory notes without the texture of fresh onions.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the sliders.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold the patties together.
1 tablespoon oil: Used for cooking the sliders, giving them a nice golden-brown exterior.

The Process for Making Mexican Chicken Sliders

Making Mexican Chicken Sliders is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps to create your sliders. It’s as easy as mixing ingredients, shaping them into patties, and cooking them to perfection!

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, egg, and oil. Mixing it all together is key, as you want the spices to evenly distribute throughout the chicken, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. You can use about 1/4 cup of the mixture per patty. Form each portion into a small burger-like shape, ensuring they’re compact enough to hold together during cooking.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little more oil if necessary. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on one side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they have a beautiful golden-brown color and the edges start to firm up.
Gently flip the patties using a spatula, and cook for an additional 4 minutes on the other side. This allows the chicken to cook through while developing a lovely crust.
Once fully cooked, remove the sliders from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. This helps the juices redistribute within the patties, keeping them moist.
Serve your Mexican Chicken Sliders with desired toppings—think fresh veggies, spicy sauces, or creamy spreads. The options are endless!
Enjoy your sliders warm, either as a meal or a fun appetizer. Don’t forget to pair them with a favorite side dish or dip!

Things Worth Knowing

Using a non-stick skillet can help prevent the sliders from sticking, making flipping easier.
For extra flavor, marinate the ground chicken with spices for an hour before cooking.
Experiment with various toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, or cheese.
Make mini versions for bite-sized appetizers during parties.

Making Adjustments

Sometimes, you may want to switch things up! Here are some tips for customizing your Mexican Chicken Sliders:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
Pairing: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips and salsa for a perfect appetizer combo.
Spice it Up: Add chopped jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.
Herb Variation: Swap out cilantro for parsley or green onions if you’re not a fan.
Alternative Cooking Methods: These sliders can also be grilled for a smoky flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Mexican Chicken Sliders

When it comes to serving Mexican Chicken Sliders, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas:

Serve with a Side Salad: A refreshing green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully, offering a crunchy contrast.
Ideal for Game Day: Make these sliders part of your game day spread—everyone will love them!
Toppings Galore: Provide an array of toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, or shredded lettuce to let guests customize their sliders.
Perfect for Picnics: Pack sliders along with some fruit for a delightful picnic lunch.
Use for Meal Prep: These sliders are great for meal prep. Make them ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Seasonal Pairing: Serve with fresh corn on the cob during summer for a delicious seasonal touch.

FAQ

Absolutely! While Mexican Chicken Sliders are traditionally made with ground chicken, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, beef, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose. Always ensure that the meat is thoroughly cooked before serving.

If you’re looking to kick up the heat in your Mexican Chicken Sliders, consider adding diced jalapeños or other hot peppers to the chicken mixture. You can also spice up your toppings—try using spicy salsa or a chipotle mayo to give your sliders that extra flavor punch. Adjusting the amount of cumin can also affect the heat level, as it adds a warm flavor that can complement spicy elements.

Toppings can elevate your Mexican Chicken Sliders to the next level! I suggest fresh toppings like avocado slices, lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a refreshing crunch. You could also add cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a creamy texture. To add a zesty kick, consider drizzling lime juice over the top or adding a spoonful of pico de gallo or guacamole. The combination of flavors will make each bite even more enjoyable!

Yes, you can definitely prepare the patties ahead of time! Form them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for longer storage. This way, you can simply cook them when you’re ready to serve, making it convenient for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

Conclusion

In summary, Mexican Chicken Sliders are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them a standout dish for any occasion. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing nature will make them a favorite at your gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe; you won’t be disappointed. Each bite will leave you wanting more, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner. Enjoy the delicious journey with these sliders!

Mexican Chicken Sliders

The ultimate comfort food, Mexican Chicken Sliders are a delightful blend of spices and tender chicken. Perfect for gatherings or casual meals, these sliders are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 8

Total Time 18

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 8 servings

Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

Skillet
Mixing Bowl
Frying Pan
Chef's Knife

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken breast
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 large egg
1 tablespoon oil

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, egg, and oil. Mixing it all together is key, as you want the spices to evenly distribute throughout the chicken, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. You can use about 1/4 cup of the mixture per patty. Form each portion into a small burger-like shape, ensuring they’re compact enough to hold together during cooking.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little more oil if necessary. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Cook the patties for about 4 minutes on one side. You'll know they’re ready to flip when they have a beautiful golden-brown color and the edges start to firm up.
Gently flip the patties using a spatula, and cook for an additional 4 minutes on the other side. This allows the chicken to cook through while developing a lovely crust.
Once fully cooked, remove the sliders from the skillet and let them rest for a minute. This helps the juices redistribute within the patties, keeping them moist.
Serve your Mexican Chicken Sliders with desired toppings—think fresh veggies, spicy sauces, or creamy spreads. The options are endless!
Enjoy your sliders warm, either as a meal or a fun appetizer. Don’t forget to pair them with a favorite side dish or dip!

Notes

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
Pairing: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips and salsa for a perfect appetizer combo.
Spice it Up: Add chopped jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.
Herb Variation: Swap out cilantro for parsley or green onions if you're not a fan.
Alternative Cooking Methods: These sliders can also be grilled for a smoky flavor.