If you’re craving a party-worthy snack that’s bursting with bold flavors and irresistible creaminess, you absolutely need to try this Jalapeno Popper Chicken Slider Sandwiches Recipe. These sliders combine tender deli chicken with a zesty cream cheese and jalapeno filling, wrapped up in soft Hawaiian rolls that get a buttery, savory topping baked to golden perfection. Perfect for game day, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want a flavorful handheld treat that’s downright addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Jalapeno Popper Chicken Slider Sandwiches Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create a party-stopping flavor combination. Each element plays a crucial role, from the creamy and spicy jalapeno cream cheese mixture to the sweet and soft Hawaiian rolls, delivering layers of texture and taste that keep you coming back for more.
- 16 oz package Hawaiian rolls: Soft, slightly sweet rolls that are perfect for slider sandwiches and hold everything together with a tender bite.
- 6 oz cream cheese (softened): The creamy base of the jalapeno spread that adds richness and smooth texture.
- 6 pieces bacon (cooked and chopped): Adds smoky crunch and depth of flavor to the creamy mixture.
- â…“ cup diced pickled jalapenos: Provides the signature spicy kick and tang essential to popper flavor.
- ¼ cup mayo: Enhances creaminess and moisture, balancing the spice and bacon saltiness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and rounds out the cream cheese mix.
- 1 lb thinly sliced deli chicken: Tender, savory protein that’s perfect for sliders and pairs well with the toppings.
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, adding sharp, creamy flavor that complements the peppers and chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives final seasoning to the chicken layer for extra savoriness.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Brings all the flavors together by enhancing the natural tastes.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Used for brushing the tops for buttery richness and to help the onion and poppy seeds stick.
- 2 teaspoons minced dried onion: Adds a punch of savory sweetness and texture to the buttery topping.
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds: Gives a beautiful crunch and visual appeal on top of the sliders.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup when baking these sliders.
How to Make Jalapeno Popper Chicken Slider Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Next, carefully slice the package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom layer, then place the bottom layer of rolls snugly into the dish. This forms the base ready to soak up those amazing flavors.
Step 2: Mix the Jalapeno Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped cooked bacon, diced pickled jalapenos, mayo, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir everything until you reach a smooth, creamy mixture bursting with flavor. This is where the magic begins — a zesty, rich filling that will flavor every bite of your slider.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
Evenly spread the jalapeno cream cheese mixture over the bottom layer of Hawaiian rolls, making sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor impact. Next, layer the thinly sliced deli chicken across the cream cheese spread, followed by the slices of sharp cheddar cheese on top of the chicken. The layers work together beautifully for a medley of creamy, spicy, cheesy, and savory notes.
Step 4: Add the Top Layer and Buttery Topping
Place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls onto the cheese layer, gently pressing down but not squashing the sandwich. In a small bowl, whisk the melted butter with minced dried onion and poppy seeds. Then brush this mixture generously over the tops of the rolls. This adds a golden crust bursting with flavor after baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This ensures the sliders heat through and the cheese melts beautifully. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 2 to 5 minutes to achieve a golden brown top with just the right amount of crispy texture. Then pull them out, let cool slightly, and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Jalapeno Popper Chicken Slider Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
These sliders are fantastic on their own, but if you want to impress your guests, try garnishing with fresh cilantro leaves or a few sliced fresh jalapenos for added color and a fresh spicy crunch. A small drizzle of ranch dressing on the side also helps mellow out the heat for those who prefer it.
Side Dishes
Serve these sliders with classic game day sides like crunchy celery sticks, baby carrots, or a fresh garden salad. For heartier options, sweet potato fries or crispy potato chips complement the creamy, spicy sliders perfectly and keep the casual vibe alive.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these sliders on a wooden board for a rustic look or arranging them on a colorful platter with small bowls of pickles, olives, or a tangy dipping sauce. Wrapping each slider in parchment paper tied with twine makes for an adorable, shareable finger food presentation at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Jalapeno Popper Chicken Slider Sandwiches Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the bread from becoming soggy, it’s best to separate layers with parchment or wax paper if possible.
Freezing
While these sliders are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them by wrapping the assembled, unbaked sliders tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time to ensure they’re heated through.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the sliders with foil and warm them in a 325°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Removing the foil for the last couple of minutes will help to crisp up the buttery tops once again.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls add a subtle sweetness that contrasts nicely with the spicy jalapeno filling, any soft slider or sandwich roll will work. Just keep in mind the flavor profile might be a bit different without that signature sweetness.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?
Sure thing! You can increase the amount of pickled jalapenos or add some chopped fresh jalapenos to the cream cheese mixture. Just be cautious with the heat if serving to a crowd—sometimes less is more when it comes to spice.
Can I substitute the deli chicken for cooked shredded chicken?
You can swap deli chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken if you prefer a more rustic texture. Spread the cream cheese mixture as usual, then add the shredded chicken and cheese before topping with the rolls.
How do I get the tops of the sliders extra crispy?
Brushing the tops generously with the melted butter mixture containing onion and poppy seeds is key. Also, removing the foil for the last 2 to 5 minutes of baking allows the tops to brown and crisp up nicely. Keep an eye on them so they don’t over-brown.
Can I make the jalapeno cream cheese mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before assembling the sliders to keep the consistency smooth and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Jalapeno Popper Chicken Slider Sandwiches Recipe truly shines as a crowd-pleaser that brings together spicy heat, creamy richness, and savory smoky notes in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want an exciting twist on your regular sandwich routine, these sliders are simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try them and watch everyone go back for seconds and thirds!
Print
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Slider Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 sliders
- Category: Slider
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Jalapeno Popper Chicken Sliders are a delicious twist on classic sliders, combining creamy bacon and jalapeno cream cheese spread, tender deli chicken, and sharp cheddar cheese on soft Hawaiian rolls. Perfectly baked with a buttery poppy seed topping, these sliders are flavorful, easy to prepare, and ideal for game day, parties, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Sliders
- 16 oz package Hawaiian rolls
- 1 lb thinly sliced deli chicken
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese
Cream Cheese Spread
- 6 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 6 pieces bacon (cooked and chopped)
- â…“ cup diced pickled jalapenos
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Topping
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 teaspoons minced dried onion
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Other
- Cooking spray (for baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Rolls: Slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, separating the bottom half from the top, and place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
- Make Cream Cheese Spread: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked and chopped bacon, diced pickled jalapenos, mayonnaise, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread Mixture on Rolls: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the bottom layer of Hawaiian rolls in the baking dish.
- Add Chicken Layer: Arrange the thinly sliced deli chicken evenly over the cream cheese spread.
- Add Cheese: Place slices of sharp cheddar cheese evenly atop the chicken layer.
- Top with Rolls: Carefully place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls back over the cheese layer, completing the sandwich stack.
- Prepare Topping Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, minced dried onion, poppy seeds, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt until well combined.
- Brush Topping: Generously brush the butter mixture over the top of the slider buns to add flavor and help browning.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the sliders are heated through and the cheese has melted.
- Brown the Tops: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 2 to 5 minutes to brown and crisp the tops of the sliders.
- Serve: Remove sliders from the oven, slice if desired, and serve immediately while warm and gooey. Enjoy!
Notes
- For extra heat, add more diced jalapenos or substitute fresh jalapenos in the cream cheese mixture.
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese well before mixing for easier spreading.
- Use precooked bacon to save time; bacon can be baked or pan-fried ahead of preparation.
- These sliders are best served hot but can be refrigerated and reheated covered in the oven to retain moisture.
- To reduce sodium, use low-sodium bacon and pickled jalapenos if available.
