Looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for game days, busy nights, or just satisfying a craving? These Chicken Nugget Sliders are here to save the day! Crispy nuggets, melty cheese, and zesty toppings come together on soft slider buns for a fun, kid-friendly (and adult-approved!) meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Let’s turn those freezer staples into something magical!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These sliders are fast, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Whether you’re feeding hungry teens or hosting a casual movie night, this recipe lets you skip the drive-thru without sacrificing flavor. Plus, you can easily double the batch for big gatherings!
Ingredients:
- 12 frozen chicken nuggets
- 6 slider buns (potato or Hawaiian rolls work great!)
- 6 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese for extra meltiness)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup pickles (sliced thinly)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp honey mustard or BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp butter (softened)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Ingredient Prep Guide
Let’s get everything ready to roll! Toast your slider buns lightly in a skillet or oven for extra crunch—just 1-2 minutes. Shred the lettuce and pat it dry with paper towels to prevent soggy sliders. If using thick pickles, slice them paper-thin so they don’t overpower every bite. Want crispier nuggets? Let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes while your oven preheats—this helps them cook more evenly.
Equipment & Tools
- Baking sheet
- Skillet or toaster oven (for toasting buns)
- Small bowl (for mixing sauces)
- Silicone brush (optional, for buttering buns)
- Paper towels (for drying lettuce)
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. While they cook, split your slider buns and lightly butter the insides. Toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden—about 2 minutes per side. Spread mayo on the bottom buns and honey mustard on the top buns. Place a cheese slice on each bottom bun. When nuggets are done, place two on each bun, add pickles and lettuce, then cap with the top bun. Press gently to hold everything together!
Key Details
Total Time: 25 mins (Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins)
🍽️ Servings: 3-4 people
⚙️ Equipment: Baking sheet, skillet, mixing bowl
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sliders with crispy waffle fries or carrot sticks for dipping. For a party spread, arrange them on a platter with mini bowls of ketchup, ranch, and hot sauce. Add a colorful side salad with cherry tomatoes to balance the meal. Want to get fancy? Skewer each slider with a decorative toothpick to keep them from sliding apart!
Pro Tips
For extra gooey cheese, place the cheese-topped buns under the broiler for 30 seconds after toasting. If your nuggets are smaller, use three per slider! To keep the sliders warm for gatherings, wrap them in foil and place in a 200°F oven for up to 20 minutes. Don’t like mayo? Try ranch dressing or avocado spread instead!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, unwrap them and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving—it’ll make the buns soggy. For crispier nuggets, reheat them separately before rebuilding the sliders.
Troubleshooting
Soggy buns? Always toast them, especially if using saucy toppings. If your cheese isn’t melting, cover the sliders with foil for 1 minute after assembling. Nuggets tasting bland? Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika before baking. For dry chicken, dip nuggets in warm BBQ sauce before building the sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap chicken nuggets for plant-based alternatives, and use vegan cheese if needed. Breaded cauliflower bites also work great here.
Can I prep these ahead for a party?
Yes! Bake nuggets and prep toppings up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble sliders just before serving to keep buns crisp.
What if I can’t find slider buns?
Use dinner rolls or cut regular burger buns into quarters. For gluten-free options, check the freezer aisle for mini GF buns!
Chicken Nugget Sliders
Ingredients
- 12 frozen chicken nuggets
- 6 slider buns
- 6 slices cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup pickles
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp honey mustard or BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange nuggets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Split slider buns and lightly butter the insides. Toast in a skillet until golden.
- Spread mayo on bottom buns and honey mustard on top buns.
- Place a cheese slice on each bottom bun.
- Place two nuggets on each bun, add pickles and lettuce, then cap with the top bun.