Chicken Enchilada Sliders

Chicken Enchilada Sliders are a scrumptious way to enjoy the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine in bite-sized, handheld servings. These sliders combine tender shredded chicken, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese nestled inside soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, game day, or a casual get-together, these sliders deliver a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and sweet flavors that everyone will adore. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make using simple ingredients and a straightforward process, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Chicken Enchilada Sliders have quickly become a fan favorite because they offer the best of both worlds: the comforting familiarity of sliders and the exciting, bold flavors of enchiladas. The pull-apart nature of the sliders makes them perfect for sharing, while the combination of juicy chicken, flavorful sauce, and gooey cheese guarantees a mouthwatering bite every time. The sweet Hawaiian rolls add a delightful contrast to the spice of the enchilada sauce, creating a flavor profile that’s both unique and irresistible. Additionally, these sliders are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit various taste preferences or dietary needs, making them a go-to recipe for cooks everywhere.

What Goes Into Chicken Enchilada Sliders

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a subtle richness.
• 1/2 cup white or yellow onion, diced small – Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic, divided – Adds aromatic depth and a touch of warmth.
• 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken – Rotisserie or homemade poached chicken works beautifully here.
• 2 cups enchilada sauce – Use store-bought or homemade for that classic tangy and mildly spicy flavor.
• 12 count package King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls – These rolls bring the perfect soft, sweet contrast.
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend – Or your favorite shredded cheese that melts well.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps create a golden, buttery topping.
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano – Enhances the authentic flavor profile; regular oregano can be a substitute.
• Finely chopped cilantro (optional) – For a fresh, herbal garnish.
• Avocado slices (optional) – Creamy slices to balance the spices and add smooth texture.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook onions and garlic and warm the chicken mixture.
• Mixing bowl – For combining shredded chicken with enchilada sauce and seasonings.
• Baking dish or casserole pan (about 9×13 inches) – To assemble and bake the sliders.
• Brush – For applying melted butter over the slider tops.
• Sharp knife – To slice the slider rolls in half.
• Measuring spoons and cups – To ensure accuracy with ingredients.

Directions: Chicken Enchilada Sliders

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and turn translucent. Stir in 2 teaspoons of the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the chicken filling.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with the sautéed onions and garlic. Add in 2 cups of enchilada sauce and the dried Mexican oregano. Stir until everything is well coated and evenly mixed. The enchilada sauce infuses the chicken with that signature tangy and slightly spicy flavor we all love.

Step 3: Prepare the Slider Rolls

Carefully slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the bottom and top halves intact. Place the bottom half of the rolls in your baking dish, pressing them together to form a solid base.

Step 4: Layer the Filling and Cheese

Spread the chicken enchilada mixture evenly over the bottom half of the slider rolls. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend on top of the chicken layer. Then, place the top half of the rolls over the filling.

Step 5: Add Butter and Remaining Garlic

Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the tops of the sliders. This step helps the rolls develop a golden, flavorful crust as they bake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the rolls, and bake uncovered for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let the sliders cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle finely chopped cilantro on top for a fresh herbaceous touch, and add avocado slices on the side or on top for creaminess. Serve these delicious Chicken Enchilada Sliders warm and watch them disappear fast!

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• Spring: Add fresh diced tomatoes or pico de gallo to brighten up the flavors.
• Summer: Incorporate grilled corn kernels into the chicken mixture for a sweet, smoky twist.
• Fall: Mix in sautéed bell peppers and a pinch of smoked paprika to evoke warm autumn flavors.
• Winter: Serve with a side of Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta for a cozy, comforting meal.

Errors to Dodge

• Overloading the sliders with too much filling – it can make them messy and hard to eat.
• Skipping the garlic butter brush – it’s essential for that golden, flavorful crust.
• Using dry or stale rolls – fresh, soft rolls are key to the perfect slider texture.
• Not letting the sliders rest after baking – a few minutes allow the cheese to set and flavors to meld.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store leftover Chicken Enchilada Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual sliders for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Avoid freezing the assembled sliders as the rolls may become soggy upon thawing. Instead, freeze the chicken filling separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, then thaw and assemble fresh sliders when ready to enjoy.

Common Qs About Chicken Enchilada Sliders

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble the sliders just before baking for the freshest taste. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the sliders, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, but homemade poached chicken or baked chicken breasts shredded into bite-sized pieces work equally well. The key is that the chicken is cooked through and shredded finely enough to mix easily with the enchilada sauce.

Can I use a different type of bread instead of King’s Hawaiian rolls?

While the sweet, soft texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls complements the enchilada filling perfectly, you can substitute with other soft slider buns or dinner rolls. Just keep in mind that the sweetness of the rolls balances the savory filling, so choose a slightly sweet or plain roll for best results.

How spicy are these Chicken Enchilada Sliders?

The level of spice depends on the enchilada sauce you use. Most store-bought enchilada sauces have a mild to medium heat level. If you prefer less heat, opt for a mild sauce or reduce the amount slightly. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta – A creamy, cheesy pasta dish bursting with taco flavors.
• Creamy Chipotle Chicken Pasta – Smoky chipotle peppers add depth to a luscious pasta sauce.
• Bbq Chicken Pasta Bake – A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for family dinners.

Wrap-Up

Chicken Enchilada Sliders are a delightful fusion of classic Mexican flavors and the fun, shareable nature of sliders. With tender shredded chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and soft, sweet rolls, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re preparing for a party or a weekday dinner, these sliders offer a simple yet irresistible way to enjoy bold flavors in a casual, easy-to-eat format. Don’t forget to experiment with fresh garnishes and seasonal twists to keep this dish exciting all year round!

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