Sliders + Tots Recipe

Marinate

In a shallow bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup buttermilk and 1 tsp hot sauce. Add the 2 chicken tenders, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (up to 2 hours) to tenderize and flavor the chicken.

Prepare Breading

In a separate shallow bowl or wide plate combine 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp paprika and 1/4 tsp cayenne (if using). In a small bowl beat 1 large egg and set beside the flour mixture for dredging.

Dredge

Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. First dip each tender into the beaten egg, then press into the flour-cornstarch seasoning mixture, coating thoroughly. For extra crunch, repeat the egg dip and a second coating with the dry mix (double-coat). Shake off excess.

Fry Tenders

Pour about 1 cup vegetable oil into a medium skillet to reach roughly 1/2 inch depth and heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C) or a breadcrumb sizzles on contact. Fry the breaded tenders 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain and rest 2 minutes.

Toast Buns: Split the 2 mini brioche buns. Spread a thin layer of unsalted butter (optional) on cut sides and toast in a skillet or under broiler until lightly golden, about 1 minute.

Make Sauce: In a small bowl combine 2 tbs mayonnaise and 1 tsp yellow mustard; stir until smooth. Taste and adjust (add a dash of hot sauce if you like).

Assemble Sliders: Spread the mayo-mustard sauce on both bun halves. Place one hot chicken tender on the bottom half of each bun (2 tenders make 2 sliders). Top each tender with 3 dill pickle slices, then cap with the top bun. Serve immediately.

Cook Tots (oven method): Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread 12 frozen tater tots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Lightly coat with cooking spray or toss with 1 tbs oil. Bake 18–22 minutes, turning once, until golden and crisp. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Serve hot alongside sliders.

Alternate Fryer Method: If using an air fryer, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes shaking halfway. For deep-fryer, fry per package instructions until crisp.