Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

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If you’re looking for a slider recipe that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than these Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders. These sliders are the ultimate fusion of spicy, smoky, and tangy flavors, with a creamy white barbecue sauce that gives them a unique Southern twist. The perfectly seasoned blackened chicken pairs wonderfully with crunchy pickles, fresh lettuce, and soft slider buns, making each bite irresistible.

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The dish brings together the best of Southern cuisine—bold, smoky chicken seasoned with the iconic blackened seasoning, paired with the tangy bite of Alabama white sauce, which is a refreshing break from the traditional red barbecue sauces. These sliders are an ideal choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing for game day, or simply craving a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love These Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

One of the best things about these sliders is the balance of textures and flavors. The chicken is the star of the show, cooked to perfection with the bold, smoky seasoning of the blackened rub. The crispy chicken skin on the outside, combined with its tender and juicy interior, offers a delightful contrast to the creamy and tangy Alabama white sauce. Add to that the crunch of fresh lettuce and the sharp, briny punch of dill pickles, and you’ve got yourself a slider that’s both satisfying and full of complex flavors.

Another great aspect of this recipe is the speed and ease with which it can be prepared. With only about 35 minutes of total prep and cook time, these sliders come together quickly—making them perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. The chicken tenders cook up in just a few minutes, and the slider buns are toasted under the broiler, adding a lovely crispy texture that elevates the entire dish.

Plus, these sliders can be prepped ahead of time. The Alabama white BBQ sauce can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, which saves you time on the day of cooking. The blackened seasoning can also be mixed and stored until you’re ready to cook, making the process even more efficient.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to execute while still delivering a restaurant-quality dish. The combination of fresh ingredients, flavorful seasoning, and the tangy Alabama white BBQ sauce will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders

Before diving into the instructions, let’s break down the key ingredients you’ll need for this recipe.

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenders – Chicken tenders are perfect for sliders because they cook quickly and remain juicy. If you can’t find tenders, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be sliced into smaller pieces.
• 4 tbsp olive oil – The olive oil is used for both the chicken and the slider buns. It helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and ensures a golden, crispy finish when cooking.

For the Slider Buns:

• 1 pack Kings Hawaiian slider rolls or dinner rolls – These sweet and soft buns provide the perfect base for your sliders. Their slight sweetness complements the smoky and tangy flavors of the chicken and Alabama white sauce.

For the Toppings:

• 1/4 head iceberg lettuce, shredded – Fresh lettuce adds a crunchy texture to the sliders. Feel free to swap it with other leafy greens like romaine or arugula for a different flavor.
• Dill pickle slices – Dill pickles are the classic choice for sliders, bringing a sharp and tangy contrast to the richness of the chicken and sauce. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for pickles.

Butter Topping:

• 1/4 cup melted butter – Used to brush on the buns, giving them a beautiful golden brown finish.
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (minced) – Adds freshness and color to the butter topping.
• 1 garlic clove (minced) – Enhances the flavor of the butter topping with its aromatic punch.

For the Blackened Seasoning:

• 2 tbsp smoked paprika – The key ingredient in blackened seasoning, smoked paprika gives the chicken a deep, smoky flavor.
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper – Provides the heat needed to balance the richness of the sauce and chicken.
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp basil
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme – These herbs and spices come together to form the classic blackened seasoning that imparts a bold flavor to the chicken.

For the Alabama White BBQ Sauce:

• 1 1/4 cup mayonnaise – The base of the white sauce, offering creaminess.
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Provides acidity and balances the richness of the mayonnaise.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds tang and depth to the sauce.
• 2 tsp brown sugar – A touch of sweetness that rounds out the flavors of the sauce.
• 2 tsp creamy horseradish – A secret ingredient that brings heat and a little zing.
• 2 tsp lemon juice (fresh squeezed) – A fresh citrus note to brighten the sauce.
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• 2 tsp hot sauce – For an extra kick of spice.
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper – Elevates the heat and smokiness in the sauce.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust these seasonings as you go, balancing the sauce to your preferred taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Sauce & Blackened Seasoning

• To begin, make the Alabama white BBQ sauce by combining all the ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Whisk the mixture together until smooth and creamy. This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify. When you’re ready to serve, simply give the sauce a quick stir before spreading it on the sliders.
• Next, combine all the blackened seasoning ingredients in a small bowl or zip-top bag. Mix everything together until well-combined, and set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Coat the chicken tenders in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring that the tenders are evenly coated. Rub the blackened seasoning generously on both sides of each tender, ensuring they’re fully coated with the flavorful spice mixture.
• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, adding the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the seasoned chicken tenders to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 3: Toast the Buns & Assemble the Sliders

• While the chicken is cooking, prepare the butter topping by mixing melted butter, garlic, and fresh parsley in a small bowl. Set it aside.
• Preheat the oven to broil. Place the split slider buns on a baking sheet, and toast the undersides under the broiler until golden brown and crispy. Remove the bottom buns and set them aside.
• Flip the top buns so they’re right-side-up and brush the tops with the butter-garlic mixture. Place the top buns back under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted and fragrant.
• Once the chicken is cooked, assemble the sliders. Start by placing the cooked chicken tenders onto the bottom slider buns. Top with a spoonful of the Alabama white BBQ sauce, followed by a few pieces of shredded lettuce and two slices of dill pickle. Place the top buns on top to complete the sliders.

Serving Suggestions

These Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some great serving suggestions to help you make the most of this flavorful dish:

1. Pair with a Side of Crispy Fries: Classic fries or sweet potato fries would make a perfect side for these sliders. The saltiness and crunch of the fries complement the richness of the sliders, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
2. Serve with Coleslaw: Coleslaw is a fantastic accompaniment to these sliders, especially with its crunchy texture and tangy flavor. A classic vinegar-based slaw or a creamy version would both pair well with the spicy chicken and tangy sauce.
3. Add Some Grilled Vegetables: For a healthier option, grilled vegetables like corn on the cob, bell peppers, or zucchini can be a great addition to the meal. Their smokiness adds depth, while their freshness balances the richness of the sliders.

Final Thoughts

These Alabama White BBQ Blackened Chicken Sliders are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply preparing a quick weeknight meal, they are sure to deliver an unforgettable burst of flavor. With a few key ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that’s full of smoky, tangy goodness that everyone will love.

The smoky blackened chicken, tangy Alabama white sauce, and the crunch of pickles and lettuce come together to form a slider that’s irresistible in every way. Once you serve these at your next gathering, you might find yourself making them again and again—because they’re just that good.