Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Spicy Chicken Sliders with Jalapeño Mayo?
These are oven-fried chicken sliders served on toasted potato rolls with a signature spicy jalapeño mayonnaise, lettuce, and pickles.
What cut of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, which are cut in half to make 12 slider-sized pieces.
How do you make the spicy mayonnaise?
Whisk together 1 1/4 cups of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of Frank's hot sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and 1/3 cup of finely chopped pickled jalapeños.
What is the required oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 450°F (232°C) with the rack set in the middle position.
How many sliders does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 12 individual sliders.
What ingredients are used to coat the chicken?
The chicken is coated in a mixture of beaten egg, honey, some of the spicy mayonnaise, and kosher salt before being breaded.
How do you prepare the panko breadcrumbs?
Toast the panko in 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
Why is the panko toasted before baking?
Toasting the panko in oil beforehand ensures the chicken gets a dark golden, extra-crispy crust even when cooked in the oven.
How long should the chicken sit in the egg mixture?
Allow the chicken to sit in the egg and honey mixture at room temperature while you prepare the panko breading.
What is the secret to a crispy oven-fried finish?
Using a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, keeping the panko coating crisp on all sides.
How long does the chicken need to bake?
Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes until the juices run clear and the coating is golden and crisp.
Should the chicken rest after baking?
Yes, let the chicken cool for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven for the best texture.
What type of rolls are recommended?
The recipe recommends using 12 potato rolls, preferably the Martin’s brand.
How should the rolls be prepared?
The potato rolls should be buttered and toasted before assembling the sliders.
What toppings are included in the slider?
Each slider is topped with spicy jalapeño mayo, thinly sliced iceberg lettuce, and sliced bread and butter pickles.
What provides the heat in this recipe?
The heat comes from a combination of Frank's hot sauce and finely chopped pickled jalapeño peppers.
What movie inspired this recipe?
These sliders were inspired by the movie Lady Bird.
Is there honey in the recipe?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of honey is used in the egg wash mixture to add a hint of sweetness and help the breading stick.
What spices are used in the spicy mayo?
The mayo is seasoned with onion powder, garlic powder, and sweet paprika.
How do you prepare the lettuce?
Use about 1/4 head of iceberg lettuce and slice it very thinly.
Can I add extra hot sauce?
Yes, the instructions suggest adding more hot sauce during assembly if a spicier slider is desired.
What are the recommended sides?
Serve the sliders with extra bread-and-butter pickles and crispy French fries.
How much olive oil is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil to fry the panko breadcrumbs.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
No, you should place a wire rack inside the rimmed baking sheet and place the chicken on the rack.
How much panko breadcrumbs are required?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups of panko (Japanese bread crumbs).
What kind of salt is used?
Kosher salt is used both in the egg mixture and when toasting the panko.
How do you apply the breading?
Remove chicken from the egg mixture, let excess drip off, coat in toasted panko, and press firmly to help it adhere.
Can I use fresh jalapeños?
The recipe specifically calls for pickled jalapeño peppers to provide a tangy, vinegary heat.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, these sliders are described as a crowd-pleaser and perfect for gatherings or finger food.
How do you assemble the final dish?
Spread mayo on both toasted sides of the roll, add the chicken, then top with lettuce and pickles.