Craving Something Delicious, Easy, and Impressive? Try Cream Cheese Chicken Sliders!
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, soft slider bun filled with juicy, flavorful chicken coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce. These Cream Cheese Chicken Sliders are the perfect recipe for a weeknight dinner, a weekend party, or any time you want to whip up something incredibly delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re guaranteed to become a new family favorite!
Why You’ll Love It
- The combination of tender chicken and creamy, tangy cream cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- These sliders are incredibly easy to make with minimal prep time and simple ingredients.
- They’re a great option for both casual weeknight meals and special occasions, like potlucks or game days.
- The recipe is versatile, allowing you to easily customize with your favorite toppings and seasonings.
- The sliders are a hit with both kids and adults, making them a crowd-pleasing dish.
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
What sets these Cream Cheese Chicken Sliders apart is the way the cream cheese is used. Instead of just a topping, it’s blended with other savory ingredients like garlic and a touch of seasoning to create a luscious, rich sauce that coats every piece of chicken. This technique infuses the chicken with flavor from the inside out, resulting in a mouthwatering slider that is far from ordinary.
Ingredient List
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 slider buns
- Cream cheese: Softening it ensures a smooth and creamy texture for the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the cream cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is smooth and combined.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish over medium heat.
- Add the coated chicken to the hot skillet, spreading it in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
- Lightly toast slider buns, if desired.
- To assemble the sliders, spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese chicken mixture onto each slider bun.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional Toppings/Variations
Customize your Cream Cheese Chicken Sliders with these delicious topping and variation ideas:
- Shredded Lettuce or Spinach: Add a fresh, crisp element.
- Sliced Tomatoes: Adds juicy and tangy flavor.
- Red Onions: Adds a sharp bite.
- Pickles: Sliced pickles add a nice crunch and tangy taste.
- Hot Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce to kick up the heat.
- Crispy Bacon: Add crispy, crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
Expert Tips
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the chicken in a single layer for even cooking.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked (165°F or 74°C).
- If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.
- Toast the slider buns for a warm, slightly crisp exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work well, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce mixture a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready. Assemble the sliders right before serving.
- Can I freeze leftover cream cheese chicken mixture?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for 2 cloves of minced garlic.
- What can I serve these sliders with?
These sliders are delicious served with coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh green salad.
Variations and Customization Options
Get creative with these delicious variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese sauce for a spicy version.
- Italian Herbs: Use an Italian seasoning blend instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
- Mushroom and Spinach: Saute mushrooms and spinach and add it to the mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
- BBQ Chicken: Add a tablespoon or two of your favorite BBQ sauce to the mixture for a BBQ version.
Serving Suggestions
These Cream Cheese Chicken Sliders are perfect for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or your next party. Serve them alongside some crispy fries, a colorful salad, or some creamy coleslaw for a complete and satisfying meal. They’re also great for game day or potlucks – they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Conclusion
These Cream Cheese Chicken Sliders are a must-try recipe that combines ease of preparation with incredible flavor. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft buns create a truly satisfying experience. We are sure you and your loved ones will enjoy every single bite of them. Give this recipe a try and don’t forget to share your photos and tell us how they turned out! Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes!
