Jalapeno Popper Chicken Sliders

Looking for a sandwich with the spicy, cheesy crunch of jalapeno poppers? Look no further than these Jalapeno Popper Chicken Sliders!

So how do you turn poppers into sliders? By mixing the main ingredients of the traditional jalapeno popper—bacon, cream cheese, and spicy pickled peppers—together to make a creamy filling. Spread that mixture onto Hawaiian rolls and top it with sliced deli chicken and slices of sharp cheddar cheese. Then add the bun tops, brush them with seasoned melted butter, and bake.

These mini sandwiches come out of the oven warm and golden, oozing with melted cheese. Each bite pops in your mouth just like a popper and slides down just like a slider. The best of both worlds!

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Sliders on a plater

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking them straight from the fridge.

What if I can’t find Hawaiian rolls?

You can use any small, soft bun or rolls available. The sweetness of Hawaiian rolls is a nice touch, but regular dinner rolls or other types of slider rolls will work as well.

Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled?

Absolutely. Fresh jalapeños will add more heat and a crunchier texture compared to pickled jalapeños.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

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Can I add more ingredients to the filling?

Yes, adding green onions, ranch seasoning, or even a bit of heat with additional spices can tailor these sliders to your favorite recipe. This is much fun to customize!

Choice of Chicken: While the recipe uses deli chicken, you can easily substitute with shredded chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even cooked chicken breasts. This makes it a great recipe for using leftover chicken.

Cheese Varieties: The recipe calls for sharp cheddar cheese, but feel free to experiment with different types such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack cheese for a spicier kick.

Rolls: Hawaiian rolls are perfect for this recipe as they add a sweet balance to the spicy jalapeño. However, any type of slider rolls will work. Make sure to slice the rolls without separating them to keep everything cohesive and easy to serve.

Cream Cheese Mixture: Softened cream cheese is easier to mix. You can add a bit of sour cream to the cream cheese mixture for a creamier texture.

Adding Crunch and Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of onion powder or panko breadcrumbs into the butter mixture before brushing over the tops of the rolls for an added crunch and flavor boost.

Spiciness Level: Adjust the amount of diced pickled jalapeños according to your tolerance for spicy foods. Adding fresh jalapeño peppers can also enhance the heat.

Prep Ahead: These sliders are a perfect make-ahead option for parties or football season gatherings. Assemble them ahead of time and pop them in the oven before guests arrive to serve them warm and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions: Pair these sliders with a side of ranch dressing or your favorite dip to balance the spicy flavor.

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Sliders

Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Spray the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. Slice the sheet of Hawaiian rolls in half crosswise and place the bottom half into the baking dish.
In a medium sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped bacon, mayo, pickled jalapenos and garlic powder until well combined and creamy. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto the bottom layer of rolls.
Layer the sliced deli chicken evenly across the top of the spread.
Place the cheddar cheese slices on top of the chicken.
Place the top bun layer back onto the sliders.
Mix together the melted butter, minced dried onion and poppy seeds. Generously brush across the tops of the slider buns.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 20 minutes, or until the sliders are warmed through and the cheese is melted. Remove foil and bake for another 2-5 minutes to brown the tops of the sliders.
Serve immediately, enjoy!