Alabama White BBQ Chicken Sliders: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your slider game! Imagine juicy, tender chicken, slathered in a tangy, creamy, and slightly peppery white barbecue sauce, all nestled between soft, pillowy slider buns. This isn’t your average barbecue; it’s a taste of Southern history and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Alabama White BBQ sauce, the star of these delightful sliders, has a fascinating backstory. Originating in northern Alabama in the 1920s at Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, it was created as a unique way to baste and flavor whole chickens. Unlike the sweet, tomato-based sauces more commonly associated with barbecue, Alabama White sauce is a mayonnaise-based concoction, offering a zesty and refreshing alternative. It’s a testament to the ingenuity and culinary creativity of Southern cooks.
People adore Alabama White BBQ Chicken Sliders for several reasons. The creamy, tangy sauce is incredibly addictive, providing a delightful contrast to the savory chicken. The slider format makes them perfect for parties, game days, or a fun weeknight meal. They are easy to assemble and customize, and the combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or simply looking for a new and exciting recipe, these sliders are sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or oven!), and get ready to experience the magic of Alabama White BBQ!
Ingredients:
- For the Alabama White BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
- For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup dill pickle chips
- Optional: Coleslaw (for topping)
Preparing the Alabama White BBQ Sauce
Okay, let’s get started with the star of the show: the Alabama White BBQ Sauce! This sauce is what makes these sliders truly special. Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; it’s super easy to whip up, and trust me, it’s worth it. I promise!
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Make sure everything is well combined and there are no lumps of mayonnaise.
- Adjust to Taste: Now, this is where you get to be the boss! Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you want it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a little more apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. If it’s too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out. Remember, it’s your sauce, so make it perfect for you!
- Chill the Sauce: Once you’re happy with the flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. You can even make it a day ahead of time for an even more intense flavor. The longer it sits, the better it gets!
Preparing the Chicken
Now that the sauce is chilling and getting all happy, let’s move on to the chicken. I prefer using chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay nice and juicy, even when cooked at a higher temperature. But you can definitely use chicken breasts if that’s what you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook them, or they’ll end up dry.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear when you cook them. Trim off any excess fat or skin.
- Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. You can also add a pinch of paprika for a little extra color and flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: There are a few ways you can cook the chicken. I’ll give you my favorite methods:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-Frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill, skillet, or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Assembling the Sliders
Alright, we’re in the home stretch! The sauce is ready, the chicken is cooked and shredded, and now it’s time to put these sliders together. This is the fun part!
- Toast the Slider Buns (Optional): If you like, you can lightly toast the slider buns. This adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting soggy. You can toast them in a toaster oven, on a grill pan, or even in a dry skillet.
- Sauce the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with about half of the Alabama White BBQ Sauce. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. You can add more sauce if you like, but remember, a little goes a long way!
- Assemble the Sliders: Place a generous spoonful of the sauced chicken onto the bottom half of each slider bun.
- Add Toppings: Top the chicken with dill pickle chips. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also add a dollop of coleslaw. I love the combination of the tangy sauce, the juicy chicken, the crunchy pickles, and the creamy coleslaw. It’s a flavor explosion in your mouth!
- Serve: Place the top half of the slider buns on top of the toppings. Serve the sliders immediately while they’re still warm and delicious. Don’t forget to have plenty of napkins on hand, because these can get a little messy!
Tips and Variations
Want to take these sliders to the next level? Here are a few tips and variations to try:
- Spice it Up: If you like things really spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken before cooking it. You can also use a spicier hot sauce in the Alabama White BBQ Sauce.
- Add Some Smoke: If you have a smoker, you can smoke the chicken thighs before shredding them. This adds a delicious smoky flavor that complements the Alabama White BBQ Sauce perfectly.
- Use Different Pickles: Instead of dill pickle chips, try using bread and butter pickles or sweet pickles. Each type of pickle will add a different flavor dimension to the sliders.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the sliders with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans for a complete meal.
- Make it Ahead: You can make the Alabama White BBQ Sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the sliders, simply reheat the chicken and toss it with the sauce.
- Use a Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, you can use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken thighs yourself. Just shred the chicken and toss it with the Alabama White BBQ Sauce.
- Add Cheese: A slice of provolone or pepper jack cheese would be delicious melted on top of the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
These Alabama White BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for:
- Game day parties
- BBQs
- Potlucks
- Tailgating
- Casual dinners
- Lunch
They’re also great for feeding a crowd. You can easily double or triple the recipe to make enough sliders for everyone.
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As mentioned earlier, you can make the Alabama White BBQ Sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the sliders, simply reheat the chicken and toss it with the sauce.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per slider)
Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 20
Conclusion:
Well, there you have it! I truly believe this Alabama White BBQ Chicken Sliders recipe is a game-changer, and here’s why you absolutely must give it a try. First and foremost, the flavor profile is unlike anything you’ve probably experienced. The tangy, creamy, and slightly peppery Alabama White BBQ sauce is a revelation, transforming ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. It’s a delightful departure from the typical sweet and smoky BBQ sauces, offering a refreshing and vibrant taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
But it’s not just about the unique flavor. These sliders are incredibly easy to make. The recipe is straightforward, using readily available ingredients, and the cooking process is simple enough for even novice cooks to master. You don’t need any fancy equipment or specialized skills to create these delicious little sandwiches. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual weekend gathering, or even a potluck contribution that’s guaranteed to impress.
And let’s talk about versatility! While I’ve presented this as a slider recipe, the possibilities are endless. You can easily adapt the recipe to make full-sized sandwiches, using larger buns and more chicken. Or, shred the chicken and serve it over a bed of crisp lettuce for a lighter, salad-style meal. You could even use the Alabama White BBQ sauce as a dipping sauce for grilled chicken wings or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
For the sliders themselves, I highly recommend serving them with a side of coleslaw. The creamy sweetness of the coleslaw complements the tangy sauce perfectly. Pickles are also a fantastic addition, adding a bit of crunch and acidity to balance the richness of the chicken and sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a slice of crispy bacon to each slider for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Looking for variations? Consider using different types of buns. Hawaiian rolls would add a touch of sweetness, while pretzel buns would provide a slightly salty and chewy texture. You could also experiment with different types of chicken. Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts, but both work well in this recipe. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Alabama White BBQ sauce. And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using grilled halloumi cheese instead of chicken. The salty, firm texture of the halloumi pairs beautifully with the tangy sauce.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
This Alabama White BBQ Chicken Sliders recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to explore new flavors, impress your friends and family, and create memories around the table. The combination of the unique sauce, the tender chicken, and the endless possibilities for customization make this recipe a true winner.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your grill (or oven), and get ready to experience the magic of Alabama White BBQ Chicken Sliders. I’m confident that you’ll love them as much as I do.
Share Your Experience!
I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what you thought of the sauce, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. I love hearing from you and learning about your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!
Alabama White BBQ Chicken Sliders: A Taste of Southern Comfort
Juicy shredded chicken in tangy Alabama White BBQ sauce, piled on slider buns with pickles (and optional coleslaw!). Great for parties or a quick, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup dill pickle chips
- Optional: Coleslaw (for topping)
Instructions
- Make the Alabama White BBQ Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and trim excess fat. In a medium bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook the Chicken (Choose one method):
- Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Shred the Chicken: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes, then shred with two forks.
- Assemble the Sliders: Toast slider buns (optional). In a large bowl, toss shredded chicken with about half of the Alabama White BBQ Sauce. Place a generous spoonful of sauced chicken on the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with dill pickle chips and optional coleslaw. Place the top half of the slider buns on top of the toppings. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper to the chicken or use a spicier hot sauce in the Alabama White BBQ Sauce.
- Add Some Smoke: Smoke the chicken thighs before shredding for a smoky flavor.
- Use Different Pickles: Try bread and butter pickles or sweet pickles.
- Make it a Meal: Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans.
- Make it Ahead: Make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store separately in the refrigerator.
- Use a Rotisserie Chicken: Use a rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken thighs yourself.
- Add Cheese: A slice of provolone or pepper jack cheese would be delicious melted on top of the chicken.
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