Raspberry Jalapeño Chicken Sliders – Sweet, Spicy & Irresistible!
Imagine tender, juicy chicken slathered in a sweet and tangy raspberry glaze, balanced with a kick of fresh jalapeño—all nestled in a soft slider bun. These Raspberry Jalapeño Chicken Sliders are the perfect blend of bold flavors and elegant simplicity.
Great for summer BBQs, game day gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dinner, these sliders are ready in just 30 minutes but taste like they came from a gourmet kitchen. The contrast of sweet raspberry jam, spicy jalapeño, and savory chicken creates a mouthwatering bite that’s impossible to resist. Plus, they’re lighter than traditional sliders, making them a crowd-pleaser for health-conscious foodies!
Pro Tip: “For an extra flavor boost, let the chicken marinate in the raspberry glaze for 10 minutes before cooking!”
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Table of Contents
Key Info Box
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 15 min
Difficulty: Easy | Cost: $$ (moderate)
Servings: 8 sliders
Ingredients
Fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor!
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for leaner option)
- ½ cup raspberry jam (no sugar added for healthier choice)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Sliders:
- 8 slider buns (whole wheat or brioche)
- 1 fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- ½ cup baby arugula or spinach
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Optional Extras:
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Extra raspberry jam for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Raspberry Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the raspberry jam, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Set aside ¼ cup of the glaze for brushing later.
Pro Tip: “If your jam is too thick, microwave it for 10 seconds to loosen it up!”
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F).
- In the last 2 minutes, brush the chicken generously with the raspberry glaze, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
Pro Tip: “Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy!”
3. Assemble the Sliders
- Lightly toast the slider buns if desired.
- Slice the glazed chicken into thin strips.
- Layer each bun with:
- A handful of arugula
- Sliced chicken
- Fresh jalapeño slices
- Crumbled feta (if using)
- A drizzle of reserved raspberry glaze
- Cilantro garnish
Pro Tip: “For extra creaminess, add a slice of avocado!”
Health Benefits
These sliders aren’t just delicious—they’re packed with nutrients!
- Chicken thighs provide protein and iron, while raspberry jam offers antioxidants.
- Jalapeños contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism.
- Arugula is rich in vitamins A and K, supporting bone health.
- Using no-sugar-added jam keeps the dish lower in refined sugars.
Variations & Swaps
- Spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or use serrano peppers.
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms.
- Dairy-free: Skip the cheese or use vegan feta.
- Paleo: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Best served immediately while the chicken is warm and the buns are fresh.
- Meal prep-friendly: Store cooked chicken and glaze separately for up to 3 days. Assemble sliders just before eating.
- For parties: Set up a slider bar with toppings so guests can customize!
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen raspberries instead of jam?
A: Yes! Simmer 1 cup frozen raspberries with 1 tbsp honey until thickened.
Q: How do I make these sliders less spicy?
A: Remove jalapeño seeds or swap for roasted red peppers.
Q: Can I grill the chicken instead?
A: Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for the same time, basting with glaze at the end.
Final Thoughts
These Raspberry Jalapeño Chicken Sliders are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. With a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, they’re sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something flavorful, this recipe delivers every time.
Ready to wow your taste buds? Give these sliders a try and let us know what you think!
