There is something irresistibly delicious about the Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe that makes it a standout for any gathering or casual meal at home. This recipe masterfully combines the smoky, spicy charm of blackened chicken thighs with the tangy silkiness of a southern-style Alabama white sauce, all snuggled between soft slider buns. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and crisp freshness that simply cannot be missed. Whether you’re fired up for game day or just craving a bold new twist on classic sliders, these sliders will quickly become your go-to crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe is in its simplicity, a handful of carefully chosen ingredients that bring layers of flavor and texture to life. Each component plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken thighs that soak up the seasoning to the tangy, creamy white sauce that elevates every bite.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 pound): Perfectly tender and juicy, these hold up wonderfully to blackened seasoning and grilling.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the seasoning cling to the chicken and promotes a beautiful sear.
- Blackened seasoning (1 tablespoon): Packed with bold spices to create that irresistible smoky crust.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Forms the creamy base of the Alabama white sauce, balancing out the spices.
- Apple cider vinegar (2 tablespoons): Adds tangy brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Prepared horseradish (1 tablespoon): Provides a sneaky kick that defines true southern Alabama white sauce.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle sharpness that rounds out the sauce.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances savory depth without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a gentle sweetness that complements the garlic.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning balance.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a mild heat to the sauce.
- Slider buns (12): Soft and slightly sweet buns that hold everything together perfectly.
- Shredded lettuce (1 cup): Brings a refreshing crunch to each slider.
- Sliced pickles (1/2 cup): Adds a tangy snap that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Optional toppings: Sliced red onions or jalapeños for extra zing and color.
How to Make Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by rubbing the chicken thighs all over with olive oil to ensure the blackened seasoning sticks evenly. This step locks in moisture and sets the stage for that gorgeous crust. Coat each piece generously and get ready to bring some Southern heat into your kitchen.
Step 2: Grill or Sear the Chicken
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs 4 to 5 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful char and are fully cooked through. This quick but powerful cooking method seals in juices while creating the signature blackened flavor that gives this recipe its soul. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Alabama White Sauce
While the chicken rests, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This creamy, tangy sauce is truly the secret weapon of the Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe. Its zesty depth will elevate your sliders to new heights.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Optional but recommended: toast the slider buns lightly to add texture and warmth. Then layer shredded lettuce on the bottom bun, add a generous portion of sliced or shredded blackened chicken, a few pickle slices, and a good drizzle of the Alabama white sauce. Top with red onions or jalapeños if you want to bring the heat or a fresh bite. Cap with the top bun and get ready to enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your sliders with crisp shredded lettuce and tangy pickles. Sliced red onions add a sharp, refreshing note, while jalapeños bring an optional fiery kick. These simple garnishes not only enhance texture and flavor but also make your sliders look irresistibly inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with classic Southern sides like creamy coleslaw or crispy sweet potato fries to complete the meal. A bowl of baked beans or a refreshing cucumber salad can add balance and keep the meal feeling light yet satisfying. The possibilities for complementary sides are as diverse and fun as your slider toppings.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, line up a slider platter with colorful toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can even create a slider bar where guests customize their own with various toppings and sauces. Serving the sliders on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra Alabama white sauce will impress friends and family every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These sliders are just as tasty the next day! Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep everything fresh and flavorful. Keep buns wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezing
If you want to lock in the flavor for longer, you can freeze cooked blackened chicken (without sauce) in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating and assembling the sliders. Avoid freezing the buns or sauce for best texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat blackened chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through to preserve its moisture and spice crust. Warm the buns separately, then assemble fresh sliders with cold lettuce, pickles, and Alabama white sauce for the best experience.
FAQs
What makes Alabama white sauce different from other sauces?
Alabama white sauce is mayonnaise-based with a tangy vinegar punch and a hint of horseradish, setting it apart from typical BBQ sauces that are tomato-based. It provides brightness and creamy heat that complements grilled chicken beautifully.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs remain juicier and hold up better to grilling, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.
How spicy is the blackened seasoning?
Blackened seasoning usually has a moderate level of heat from cayenne and other spices, but it can be adjusted to your preference. You can reduce the cayenne for a milder flavor or add more if you love extra spice.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, the Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe is dairy-free since the sauce’s creaminess comes from mayonnaise, not any milk-based ingredients, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The Alabama white sauce can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Making it ahead enhances the flavors and saves time on the day you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a slider that’s packed with bold, southern character and bursting with flavor, you absolutely must try this Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe. It’s a guaranteed way to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special at home. The balance of smoky, spicy chicken with creamy, tangy white sauce is simply unforgettable. Trust me, once you make these sliders, they’ll become a permanent favorite in your recipe stash!
Print
Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
Alabama White Blackened Chicken Sliders are a flavorful Southern-inspired dish featuring tender blackened chicken thighs coated in a zesty homemade Alabama white sauce. Perfect for game day or casual gatherings, these sliders combine char-grilled chicken with crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a creamy horseradish-mustard mayo on soft slider buns for a delicious handheld meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
Alabama White Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Slider Assembly
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- Optional: sliced red onions or jalapeños for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Grill or Skillet: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough for searing the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: Rub the chicken thighs evenly with olive oil and blackened seasoning until fully coated.
- Cook Chicken: Place the chicken on the preheated grill or skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is slightly charred.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices, then slice or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Make Alabama White Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Toast Buns (Optional): Toast the slider buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster to add warmth and slight crispness.
- Assemble Sliders: Layer shredded lettuce on the bottom half of each bun, followed by blackened chicken, sliced pickles, and a generous drizzle of Alabama white sauce. Add optional toppings like sliced red onions or jalapeños if desired.
- Serve: Place the top bun on each slider and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can prepare the Alabama white sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For extra heat, use spicy pickles or add hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture.
- Leftover sliders can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the skillet or oven.
- This recipe is dairy-free but contains mayonnaise; adjust if allergies apply.
