Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders (Print Version)

Sweet maple glazed chicken and crispy bacon stacked with cheese on toasted buns.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 8 slices bacon

→ Marinade & Glaze

03 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
04 - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
05 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
07 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Buns & Assembly

08 - 8 slider buns or mini brioche buns, split
09 - 8 slices cheddar or gouda cheese
10 - 1 cup baby arugula or mixed lettuce
11 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
12 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease.
02 - Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally, then cut into 8 equal pieces.
03 - Whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
04 - Toss chicken pieces in marinade. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
05 - Lay bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
06 - Heat grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side, until cooked through and caramelized.
07 - Brush cut sides of slider buns with melted butter. Toast in a skillet or on grill until golden.
08 - Layer arugula, chicken, bacon, cheese, and onion (if using) on buns.
09 - Secure with cocktail picks and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It delivers the sweet and savory combo of a fancy bistro burger but in a handheld, two-bite format.
  • The maple glaze caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, creating a sticky texture that keeps the meat incredibly juicy.
02 -
  • Maple syrup has high sugar content, so watch the chicken closely in the pan to prevent the glaze from scorching.
  • Let the chicken rest for just a few minutes after cooking so the juices redistribute, keeping the sandwich from getting soggy.
03 -
  • Using a wire cooling rack over your baking sheet allows the bacon grease to drip away, making the cleanup easier.
  • Brush a little extra maple syrup on the buns while toasting for an added layer of flavor.