Charcoal Chicken Sliders with Spicy Maple Glaze
Are you ready to spice up your Halloween festivities with a dish that combines flavor and fun? Imagine serving Charcoal Chicken Sliders with Spicy Maple Glaze at your gathering, a unique twist on classic sliders that will leave your guests raving. Did you know that themed dishes can enhance the overall dining experience by over 30%? This Halloween, let’s create an unforgettable meal that is not only delicious but also visually captivating!
Ingredients List
To whip up these Charcoal Chicken Sliders, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon activated charcoal powder (for color)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)
- Slider buns (mini brioche or whole wheat)
- Spicy maple glaze:
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Substitution Suggestions:
- Ground turkey or beef: Use instead of ground chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Vegan option: Substitute with plant-based ground meat and maple syrup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, activated charcoal powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs (if using).
- Mix Well: Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Form the Sliders
- Shape Patties: Divide the mixture into small portions and shape them into slider-sized patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Chill (Optional): If time allows, refrigerate the patties for 10-15 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Sliders
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Patties: Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice sear.
Step 4: Prepare the Spicy Maple Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, sriracha, and apple cider vinegar.
- Heat: Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
- Toast Buns (Optional): If desired, toast the slider buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster.
- Add Patties: Place a cooked chicken patty on the bottom half of each slider bun.
- Drizzle Glaze: Generously drizzle the spicy maple glaze over each patty.
- Top and Serve: Add the top half of the bun and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information
Here’s a comprehensive look at the nutritional details for one Charcoal Chicken Slider (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Nutritional Insights:
- Protein-Packed: Each slider provides a good source of protein, perfect for a filling meal.
- Flavorful and Fun: The activated charcoal adds a unique visual appeal without compromising taste.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you want to make your Charcoal Chicken Sliders healthier, consider these modifications:
- Lean meat: Use lean ground chicken or turkey to reduce fat content.
- Whole grain buns: Opt for whole grain slider buns for added fiber and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your Charcoal Chicken Sliders experience:
- Themed Presentation: Serve on a Halloween-themed platter or with spooky decorations for an eye-catching display.
- Side Dishes: Pair with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad to round out the meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer additional dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli for variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Charcoal Chicken Sliders, keep these common mistakes in mind:
- Overcooking the patties: Monitor cooking time to avoid dry sliders; they should be juicy and tender.
- Too much charcoal: Use activated charcoal sparingly to avoid overpowering the flavor of the chicken.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To keep your Charcoal Chicken Sliders fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Leftover storage: Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked patties for up to a month; just thaw and cook when ready to serve.
Conclusion
In summary, Charcoal Chicken Sliders with Spicy Maple Glaze are a fun and flavorful addition to your Halloween feast, combining unique ingredients with a delicious twist. Try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments section or subscribe for more exciting updates!
FAQs
Can I make these sliders in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
What can I use instead of activated charcoal?
If you prefer not to use activated charcoal, you can skip it; the sliders will still be delicious, though they won’t have the striking black color.
Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground chicken with plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version
Charcoal Chicken Sliders with Spicy Maple Glaze
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon activated charcoal powder (for color)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)
- Slider buns (mini brioche or whole wheat)
- Spicy maple glaze:
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, activated charcoal powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs (if using).
- Mix Well: Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Form the Sliders
- Shape Patties: Divide the mixture into small portions and shape them into slider-sized patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Chill (Optional): If time allows, refrigerate the patties for 10-15 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Sliders
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Patties: Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice sear.
Step 4: Prepare the Spicy Maple Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, sriracha, and apple cider vinegar.
- Heat: Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
- Toast Buns (Optional): If desired, toast the slider buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster.
- Add Patties: Place a cooked chicken patty on the bottom half of each slider bun.
- Drizzle Glaze: Generously drizzle the spicy maple glaze over each patty.
- Top and Serve: Add the top half of the bun and serve immediately.
