Name: Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 slices bacon; ⅓ cup pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 12 slider buns; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved; ½ cup baby arugula (optional)

Hey y'all! If you love sticky-sweet, smoky, and savory flavors all in one glorious bite, these Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are about to be your new favorite recipe. Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a drizzle of maple goodness come together for the ultimate mini sandwich—perfect for game days, parties, or your next family dinner. Trust me, every bite packs in a punch of delicious comfort and serious crowd-pleaser vibes. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

One-pan wonder for easy cleanup and fast prep.
Delicious combo of smoky bacon, juicy chicken, and sweet maple syrup in every bite.
Perfect party or family night option for sharing and snacking.
Incredibly versatile—customize with your favorite cheeses and toppings.
Keeps well for leftovers or make-ahead meals.

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts)
8 slices thick-cut bacon
¼ cup pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
8 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
4 slices cheddar or provolone cheese, halved
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally, then cut each piece into slider-sized portions. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cool, cut slices in half.

Step 3: Sear and Glaze the Chicken

In the same skillet with bacon drippings (reserve a tablespoon or two), add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through (internal temp: 165°F/74°C). While the chicken finishes, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard, pour over the chicken, and simmer for another 2 minutes, turning to coat well.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice slider buns and place bottoms in a baking dish. Layer each with chicken, half a cheese slice, and bacon. Cover with bun tops.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Brush melted butter over the buns and sprinkle with parsley. Bake sliders uncovered for 10 minutes, or until cheese is melty and buns are just golden. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes & Cooking Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in 2 tablespoons maple syrup for 30 minutes before cooking.
Swap out cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for a twist on flavor.
Learn more about safe chicken handling and cooking temperatures at the USDA Food Safety site.

Variations for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before baking for extra kick.
Low-Carb: Skip the buns and serve chicken, bacon, and cheese as lettuce wraps.
Breakfast Style: Add a thin fried egg to each slider and serve on toasted English muffins.

Required Equipment for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Large skillet
Sharp knife & cutting board
Baking dish or sheet pan
Small bowl for sauce
Pastry brush

Storage Instructions for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake covered at 325°F (163°C) for 8-10 minutes or microwave until warmed through. Tip: If making ahead, assemble and refrigerate unbaked sliders, then add the melted butter and bake just before serving.

Serving Recommendations & Pairings

These Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders pair perfectly with crunchy coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad. For drinks, try serving with a crisp lager or sparkling apple cider. Looking for more appetizer inspiration? Check out Bon Appétit's slider roundup.

Pro Tips for Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders

For clean slices, use a serrated knife to halve your slider buns evenly.
Let the cooked chicken rest a couple of minutes before assembling to seal in the juices.
Bake sliders uncovered so the buns crisp up slightly on top—discover more quick-bake tips at Serious Eats.

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?: Absolutely! Shred pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, warm it in the maple-mustard sauce, and proceed with the recipe.
Can these sliders be made ahead?: Yes—assemble and refrigerate sliders up to a day ahead. Bake just before serving for best results.
What’s the best bacon for this recipe?: Thick-cut smoked bacon is best for that perfect crispy texture and smoky flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders