The Ultimate Chicken Slider Recipe For Kids

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Looking for a kid-friendly meal that is both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than our ultimate guide to making the perfect kid’s chicken sliders recipe. These sliders are juicy, flavorful, packed with hidden veggies and will have your little ones asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

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In this guide, we will share our secret to creating sliders that are not only packed with flavor but also perfectly sized for little hands. From the mixing process to the cooking technique, we will walk you through every step so that you can achieve slider perfection every time.

The key to making these sliders extra tasty is using high-quality ingredients, mixing in some creamy ingredients to keep the patties moist and incorporating seasonings that kids love. Plus, we’ll also provide some creative topping ideas and suggestions for serving these delicious sliders to make mealtime even more enjoyable for your little ones.

So, if you’re ready to impress your kids with a mouthwatering meal that they’ll adore, let’s dive into our ultimate guide to making the perfect kid’s chicken slider recipe.

Get your apron on, and let’s get cooking!

Personal Connection

My 4-year-old used to eat any protein I put in front of him, but over the past six months, he’s become more selective, especially with animal proteins. This recipe was a triumph for me because, while he didn’t eat the chicken patty in the bun this time, he did try the chicken patty on its own!

It brought me hope and reassurance that introducing new foods can be a positive experience, even if he takes just one bite or eats it in an unexpected way.

This journey has taught me to be patient and creative, and these kid-friendly chicken sliders are a step in the right direction for expanding his palate.

Why Kids Love Chicken Sliders

Kids are notorious for being picky eaters, but there’s something about chicken sliders that they simply can’t resist. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful seasonings, and the perfect bun size make these sliders a hit with even the fussiest eaters.

The smaller size is less intimidating for kids, and they can easily hold the sliders in their hands, making them a fun and interactive meal option.

Chicken sliders also offer versatility. You can customize the flavor by adding different seasonings or sauces, allowing you to cater to your child’s preferences.

Whether they prefer a tangy barbecue flavor or a classic ketchup and mustard combo, chicken sliders can be adapted to suit any taste.

Additionally, chicken is a lean protein source, which makes it a healthier option for kids.

By making sliders at home, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring that your child is getting a nutritious meal without any added preservatives or artificial flavors.

How To Perfect Chicken Sliders

The key to a delicious chicken slider lies in the patty itself. You want it to be moist, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

Here’s how to achieve slider perfection with your chicken patties:

Choose ground chicken: Opt for a high quality brand and not just ground chicken breast. Ground chicken with all parts of the meat helps to create a moist burger patty and provide good flavor.
Season generously: Before cooking the chicken, season it generously with your favorite seasonings. A combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika works well for a classic flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings based on your child’s preferences.
Cook to perfection: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Be careful not to overcook them as it can result in dry sliders.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t exactly as you envisioned.

The more you make these sliders, the better you’ll become at achieving the perfect patty every time.

How to Find Buns for Your Sliders

While the patty is the star of the show, the bun plays a crucial supporting role in making the perfect kid’s chicken slider.

Here’s what to consider when choosing the right buns:

Size matters: Opt for small, soft buns that are proportionate to the size of your chicken patties. Sliders are all about the balance between the patty and the bun, so make sure they are not too big or too small.
Texture and flavor: Look for buns that are soft and slightly sweet. Brioche or Hawaiian slider buns are a popular choice as they provide a delicate texture and a touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken.

Remember, the bun serves as a vessel to hold all the delicious ingredients together, so choose wisely to enhance the overall taste and texture of your kid’s chicken sliders.

The Best Toppings for Kid’s Chicken Sliders

Toppings and condiments can take your kid’s chicken sliders to the next level, adding extra flavor and texture.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Classic toppings: Lettuce, tomato, and sliced red onion are classic toppings that add freshness and a pop of color to your sliders. You can also include pickles or sliced avocado for added creaminess.
Cheese, please: Kids love cheese, so why not add a slice of their favorite cheese on top of the chicken patty? Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack are all excellent choices that will melt beautifully over the hot chicken.
Sauces and spreads: The right sauce or spread can elevate the flavor of your sliders. Classic options like ketchup and mustard are always a hit, but you can also experiment with barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a tangy honey mustard.
Get creative: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Consider adding a pineapple slice or a fried egg for a unique twist. Let your child’s taste preferences guide you in creating the ultimate slider combination.

Remember, the key is to balance the flavors and textures so that each bite is a burst of deliciousness.

Let your child customize their slider with their favorite toppings to make mealtime even more enjoyable.

Tips for Cooking Flavorful Chicken Sliders

Cooking chicken sliders to perfection requires a few techniques to ensure they are juicy and bursting with flavor.

Here are some tips to help you achieve slider success:

Oil or butter the grill or skillet: Before cooking the chicken patties, make sure to oil or butter the grill or skillet to prevent sticking. You can use a brush or a paper towel to evenly coat the cooking surface with a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken patties, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Leave enough space between each patty to allow for even cooking. If necessary, cook them in batches.
Use medium-high heat: Preheat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. This will ensure a nice sear on the outside of the chicken while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Resist the urge to press: While cooking, resist the urge to press down on the chicken patties with a spatula. This will only squeeze out the juices and result in drier patties.
Rest before serving: Once the chicken patties are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful slider.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create chicken sliders that are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Your kids will be begging for more!

Creative Variations of Kid’s Chicken Sliders

While the classic chicken slider is always a crowd-pleaser, it’s fun to get creative and try different flavor combinations.

Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary adventures:

Spicy Buffalo: Toss the cooked chicken patties in a spicy buffalo sauce and serve with a side of blue cheese dressing. Add some sliced celery for extra crunch.
BBQ Bacon Ranch: Top the chicken patties with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of tangy barbecue sauce and ranch dressing.
Hawaiian Delight: Grill some pineapple slices alongside the chicken patties and assemble the sliders with teriyaki-marinated chicken, a slice of grilled pineapple, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Italian-inspired: Season the chicken patties with Italian herbs such as basil, oregano, and garlic powder. Top with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.

Feel free to let your imagination run wild and experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

The possibilities are endless!

Side Dish Ideas for Chicken Sliders

Now that you have perfected your kid’s chicken sliders, it’s time to think about the perfect accompaniments.

Here are some serving suggestions and side dish ideas to complete your meal:

French Fries: Bake or air fry some regular or sweet potato fries to serve alongside the sliders. They will add a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
Homemade coleslaw: Whip up a simple coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. The refreshing and crunchy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the savory sliders.
Fresh fruit skewers: Thread bite-sized pieces of melon, berries, and grapes onto skewers for a refreshing and healthy side dish. Kids will love the colorful presentation and the naturally sweet flavors.
Mini corn on the cob: Boil or grill mini corn on the cob and serve them as a fun and interactive side dish. Kids will enjoy holding the cobs and nibbling on the sweet kernels.

Remember, the goal is to create a well-rounded meal that includes a mix of flavors, textures, and nutrients.

Get creative with your side dishes to make the meal more exciting and enjoyable for your little ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the chicken patties in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze the chicken patties?
Absolutely! Once cooked, allow the chicken patties to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in a skillet, air fryer or the oven until warmed through.

Can I grill the chicken sliders outdoors?
Absolutely! If you prefer the smoky flavor that grilling provides, you can cook the chicken sliders on a preheated grill. Make sure to oil the grates and cook the patties over medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Final Thoughts

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our ultimate guide to making the perfect kid’s chicken slider recipe.

By following our tips and techniques, you can create sliders that are not only juicy and flavorful but also perfectly sized for your little ones.

Remember to choose high-quality ingredients, season generously, and get creative with your toppings to make the sliders even more enjoyable.

Don’t forget to pair them with delicious side dishes and experiment with different variations to keep mealtime exciting.

Making homemade kid’s chicken sliders allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that your child is getting a nutritious and delicious meal.

So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the slider-making adventure begin.

Your kids will thank you for it!

Chicken Sliders with Hidden Veggie

These Kids Chicken Sliders are a fun and delicious meal perfect for little hands and big appetites! Made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and flavorful seasonings, these sliders are juicy and easy to prepare. Simply mix the ingredients, form into small patties, and cook until golden brown. Serve on toasted slider buns with your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and avocado. These versatile sliders are sure to be a hit with kids and can be customized to suit their tastes. Perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or a fun party treat!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course dinner, lunch

Cuisine American

Servings 16 Servings

Calories 266 kcal

Equipment

Food Processor (optional)
Indoor or outdoor grill pan
Mini ice cream or cookie scooper (optional)

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup frozen spinach
2 tablespoons yogurt or cream cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
Slider buns (we use Hawaiian Rolls)
Optional toppings: lettuce tomato, sliced onion, avocado, cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, etc.
Optional sides: chopped veggies french fries, tater tots, etc.

Instructions

In the food processor, blend the spinach and yogurt or cream cheese.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, spinach mixture, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Using a spoon or cookie/ice cream scooper, scoop and shape them into patties. Aim for smaller-sized patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
Heat olive oil or butter in a BBQ, skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
Once the pan is hot, add the chicken patties to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the burgers are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
Optional: During the last minute of cooking, you can add a slice of cheese on top of each burger patty and cover the skillet with a lid to allow the cheese to melt.
Optional: While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the slider buns on the grill or in a toaster.
Assemble your burgers or sliders by placing each cooked patty on a bun, and adding your desired toppings.
Serve immediately and watch your kiddos enjoy these sliders!

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