Hot Honey Chicken Sliders: Sweet, Spicy, and Perfectly Crispy

If you’re craving bold flavor packed into the perfect handheld bite, look no further than Hot Honey Chicken Sliders. These sliders are everything you want in a sandwich—crispy, juicy chicken tossed in a sticky hot honey glaze, layered on soft buns, and finished with toppings that add the perfect crunch and creaminess. Whether you’re hosting a game day, feeding a crowd, or just want a dinner that hits every note, these sliders deliver sweet heat in every bite.

Why These Sliders Are So Addictive

It’s the contrast that makes them unforgettable. Crispy fried (or air-fried) chicken gives each bite crunch and tenderness, while the hot honey—made with a blend of sweetness and chili heat—coats everything in a glossy, flavorful finish. Stack it all on soft slider buns, add a pickle or slaw for balance, and you’ve got a mouthwatering mini sandwich that’s impossible to eat just one of.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs or tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying (or air fryer)

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• ½ cup honey
• 1–2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional for extra heat)
• ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns (brioche or Hawaiian rolls work well)
• Pickles, coleslaw, or lettuce (optional toppings)
• Melted butter (to brush the buns)
• Toothpicks for serving

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Sliders

1. Marinate the Chicken

Soak chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight). This helps tenderize the meat and gives it a tangy base flavor.

2. Bread and Fry

Mix flour, cornstarch, and spices in a bowl. Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in flour mixture until fully coated. Fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes per piece until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels. (Air fryer option: Spray with oil and air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.)

3. Make the Hot Honey

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey, red pepper flakes, hot sauce, and vinegar or lemon juice. Stir for 1–2 minutes until well combined. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the Sliders

Place one piece of chicken on each bun. Drizzle with hot honey sauce, then add toppings like pickles or slaw if desired. Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and serve warm.

Flavor Variations

• Cheesy sliders: Add a slice of pepper jack or cheddar to each slider.
• Baked option: Bake chicken tenders for a healthier version.
• Make it mild: Use honey without chili flakes for a sweet-only version.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Chicken Sliders are the perfect combo of sweet, spicy, crispy, and soft. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and bring major flavor to any table—whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself. Serve them with fries, chips, or a side salad for a full meal that’s guaranteed to impress.

Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.