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Flavorful Grilled Bourbon Chicken Sliders

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Juicy grilled chicken thighs marinated in bourbon and spices, served on soft slider buns with a tangy creamy slaw. Perfect for Derby Day or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (120 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 12 small slider buns (brioche or potato rolls preferred)
  • 3 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken (at least 2 hours, ideally overnight): In a large bowl, whisk together bourbon, brown sugar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne (if using), salt, and olive oil until the sugar dissolves. Add the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate.
  2. Prepare the Slaw (while chicken marinates): In a medium bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Toss well to coat. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed. Chill until serving.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). Oil the grates lightly with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, turning once. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Watch for flare-ups and move to indirect heat if chicken chars too fast.
  5. Rest the Chicken: Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
  6. Assemble the Sliders: Slice the chicken into slider-sized pieces or leave whole. Toast slider buns lightly on the grill for 1-2 minutes, cut side down. Layer chicken and a generous scoop of slaw on each bun. Optionally add pickles or hot sauce.
  7. Serve: Arrange sliders on a platter and serve warm.

Notes

Marinate chicken at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor and juiciness. Watch grill temperature to avoid burning sugars in marinade. Rest chicken before assembling sliders to keep them juicy. Keep slaw separate until serving to prevent sogginess. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Mayonnaise can be swapped with Greek yogurt or vegan mayo for lighter or vegan options.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken sliders, bourbon chicken, Derby Day recipe, chicken sliders, bourbon marinade, easy sliders, backyard cookout

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/flavorful-grilled-bourbon-chicken-sliders-easy-derby-day-recipe/