These tasty teriyaki chicken sliders are juicy and packed with flavor! The sweetness of pineapple and crunchy coleslaw makes every bite refreshing and fun.
Who doesn’t love a mini burger that’s easy to grab? I like to serve these at parties—everyone goes wild for the combo of sweet and crunchy. Plus, they’re simple to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Chicken Thighs: These are perfect for this recipe due to their tenderness and rich flavor. If you prefer a leaner meat, chicken breasts work well, just remember they might require a bit less cooking time.
Teriyaki Sauce: You can buy teriyaki sauce at the store, but homemade versions are great too! For a healthier option, consider using low-sodium soy sauce mixed with honey and ginger. This gives a similar flavor profile without the added sugar.
Pineapple Rings: Canned pineapple is convenient, but fresh pineapple adds a delicious touch. You might also try swapping it with mango slices for a tropical twist. Just make sure it’s ripe and sweet!
Coleslaw Mix: If you’re short on time, pre-packaged coleslaw mix works great. For a twist, use shredded broccoli or Brussels sprouts instead of cabbage. They’ll add a nice crunch!
Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. It adds creaminess with less fat, plus a bit of protein!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Shredded Chicken?
Shredding chicken perfectly is key to making these sliders delicious and easy to eat. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is tender and falls apart with no hassle!
- Cook the chicken in a slow cooker or instant pot until it’s fully tender. Aim for pulling it apart without much pressure.
- Use two forks for shredding! Hold the chicken with one fork and pull apart with the other. This helps achieve nice, even shreds.
- If you opt for the quicker stovetop method, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This ensures it stays juicy before you shred.
Remember, the more tender the chicken, the easier it’ll be to shred! Enjoy making your sliders with this technique!
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Sliders with Pineapple and Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
For the Pineapple:
- 1 can pineapple rings (in juice or syrup)
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns
For the Coleslaw:
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking and Garnish:
- Olive oil (for cooking, optional)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time. If you use a slow cooker, it will take about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. If you choose the quicker stovetop method, it will take around 30-40 minutes in total. Enjoy the hands-off cooking while your sliders come together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless chicken thighs in a slow cooker or instant pot. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. If you are using a slow cooker, set it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and shreds easily. For a quicker option, heat a bit of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs for about 5 minutes on each side, then add the teriyaki sauce. Let it simmer until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes, then shred the chicken.
2. Prepare the Coleslaw:
In a mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. It’s best to set this aside in the refrigerator for a while to chill and let the flavors blend.
3. Grill the Pineapple (Optional):
If you like a bit of extra flavor, you can grill the pineapple rings. Preheat a grill pan or an outdoor grill. Place the pineapple rings on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they show nice grill marks and are heated through. This adds a delicious smokiness!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Take the slider buns and slice them in half. On the bottom half of each bun, place a generous amount of the shredded teriyaki chicken. Add on a grilled pineapple ring (if using), and then top it off with a spoonful of coleslaw. Don’t be shy with the coleslaw; it adds a great crunch!
5. Garnish and Serve:
For a finishing touch, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top if you like. Place the top bun over the coleslaw to complete your slider. Use a toothpick to hold everything together, if needed. Serve them up immediately and enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Sliders!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs! Keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster, so decrease the cooking time accordingly – about 15-20 minutes if you’re searing them and 3-4 hours on low in a slow cooker. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
To store leftovers, keep the components separate: place any remaining teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the coleslaw separately to maintain its crunch. You can assemble the sliders just before serving to keep everything fresh!
Can I Make the Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise in the Coleslaw?
If you’re looking for alternatives to mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option or even sour cream for a creamier texture. You might want to adjust the vinegar and sugar to taste, as these alternatives can be tangier or sweeter.
