These whimsical Halloween Monster Chicken Sliders are not only adorable but also incredibly delicious. Loaded with juicy shredded chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and topped with guacamole, these sliders are sure to be a hit at any Halloween party!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together the best elements of flavor and festivity. You’ll love the smoky, spicy notes from the chipotle and taco seasoning combined with the sweetness of BBQ sauce. The added surprise of creative monster eyes made from string cheese and olives will delight both children and adults alike, making your Halloween gathering unforgettable. Plus, they are easy to assemble, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the festivities rather than stuck in the kitchen!
Introduction
Halloween is the time when creativity shines in the kitchen, and what better way to celebrate than with these Halloween Monster Chicken Sliders? These sliders are not only a feast for the eyes but are also loaded with flavor, ensuring that your guests will be talking about your culinary creations long after the last pumpkin has been carved. Let’s dive into how to create these spooky delights.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups BBQ Sauce
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chopped chipotle pepper in adobo
- 2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 small red onion
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 string cheese sticks
- ¼ cup black olives
- 1 baby cucumber
- 1 cup guacamole
- 8 slider buns
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, taco seasoning, and chopped chipotle pepper until well blended.
Step 2: Place the chicken breasts into a slow cooker. Slice half of the small red onion and add the slices to the chicken, then sprinkle with kosher salt.
Step 3: Pour the prepared BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken ensuring that it is well coated. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Step 4: Cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours. The chicken should be tender and easy to shred. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and discard any remaining sauce. Shred the chicken using two forks and then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to soak up the remaining flavor.
Step 5: For the monster eyes, slice the string cheese into rounds and use a small bubble tea straw or a paring knife to cut the black olives into small circles or triangles. Slice the baby cucumber into thick rounds to create Cyclops-style eyes. Cut slits in the top of the slider buns to insert the cheese and olive eyes so they can stand up.
Cooking Note: The extra shredded chicken can be kept airtight in the refrigerator for up to one week, making it a great option for easy meals later on.
Suggestions for Presentation:
Arrange the sliders on a festive platter. Garnish with additional cilantro and serve with bowls of extra guacamole for dipping. For an added spooky touch, label each slider with cute name tags such as “Mummy’s Delight” or “Creepy Chickens”.
Tips:
- Make sure to choose fresh slider buns; they should be soft but sturdy enough to hold the filling.
- For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken before shredding it.
- Feel free to enhance the toppings with other fun ingredients like jalapeños for an extra kick.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 to 6 hours
Total Time: Approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 36 g
- Sodium: 1193 mg
Conclusion
These Halloween Monster Chicken Sliders are a fantastic way to combine festive fun with mouth-watering flavor. Perfect for a party or family gathering, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces while satisfying appetites. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash or simply wanting to impress your family with a themed dinner, these sliders will deliver both in taste and visual delight.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even pulled pork for a different flavor profile. - How can I make the recipe spicier?
You can add more chopped chipotle peppers or include diced jalapeños in the chicken mixture to kick up the heat. - What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can also prepare the shredded chicken in a pot on the stove; simply simmer covered on low heat until tender (about 1-2 hours). - How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. - Can I prepare the sliders in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and toppings ahead of time and assemble the sliders just before serving for the best texture.
Enjoy creating these delightful monster sliders and have a spooktacular Halloween!
