Kids Chicken Sliders Recipe

Prep aromatics

Grate the onion finely and squeeze it lightly in a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Finely chop the parsley and mince the garlic if not already prepared.

Combine ingredients

In a medium bowl combine 1 lb ground chicken, 1 cup plain breadcrumbs, 1 egg, the grated onion (about 1/4 cup), 1 tsp minced garlic, 2 tbsp chopped parsley, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until just combined—avoid overworking so patties stay tender.

Form patties

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz / 56 g each). With lightly oiled hands, shape each portion into a small, slightly flattened patty about the diameter of your mini buns so they will fit evenly.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tbsp vegetable oil. When oil is shimmering, add patties in a single layer without crowding (cook in two batches if needed). Cook 3–4 minutes on the first side until golden and edges set. Flip and cook 3–4 minutes more until cooked through to 165°F (74°C) internal temperature. If using cheese, place half-slices of cheddar on patties during the last 1 minute of cooking, cover briefly to melt.

While patties cook, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp yellow mustard, 1/2 tsp lemon juice, and 1/8 tsp salt in a small bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or salt to preference. Chill until ready to assemble.

Toast buns

Split 8 mini slider buns and spread the cut sides lightly with the 2 tbsp softened butter. Place buns cut-side down in a clean skillet over medium heat or on a griddle and toast 1–2 minutes until golden. Alternatively, toast under a broiler for 1–2 minutes watching closely.

Assemble sliders

Spread about 1 tablespoon of prepared sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a lettuce leaf (or torn piece) on the sauce, then add one cooked chicken patty. Top each patty with a tomato slice (if using) and a pickle slice. Spread a little sauce on the top bun and close the slider. Repeat for all 8 sliders.

Serve

Arrange sliders on a platter and serve immediately while warm. Leftover sauce keeps covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.