Chicken Minis Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Minis are a delicious and convenient bite-sized meal that combines the savory taste of chicken with the comforting texture of a soft, fluffy bun. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a snack, these little sandwiches are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to serve at a party, Chicken Minis are versatile and sure to please a crowd.

These mini sandwiches feature tender, juicy chicken fillets, cooked to perfection, and served on soft mini buns, often topped with a drizzle of honey or a tangy sauce to enhance the flavor. The simplicity of this recipe makes it easy to customize with your favorite seasonings, sauces, or toppings, allowing you to create a sandwich that perfectly suits your tastes.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps of preparing and assembling these Chicken Minis, offering tips and tricks to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Get ready to enjoy a bite-sized version of a classic chicken sandwich that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Minis

• Convenient and Bite-Sized: These Chicken Minis are perfect for small hands or anyone looking for a lighter meal. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for parties, picnics, or even packed lunches.
• Juicy, Tender Chicken: The chicken fillets are seasoned and cooked until golden brown, ensuring a juicy, flavorful filling that pairs beautifully with the soft buns.
• Customizable: Whether you prefer a sweeter touch with honey, a tangy kick with barbecue sauce, or a creamy addition like mayo, these Chicken Minis can be customized with your favorite sauces and toppings.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, making it simple to prepare even on busy weeknights. You can have a batch of Chicken Minis ready in no time!
• Kid-Friendly: Chicken Minis are a great option for kids, as their small size makes them fun to eat. Plus, you can make them healthier by opting for grilled chicken or adding fresh veggies.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: Makes 12 Chicken Minis
• Calories per Serving: Around 180-200 calories per mini sandwich (depending on the specific ingredients used).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180-200 kcal
• Fat: 7-9g
• Carbohydrates: 20-22g
• Protein: 14-16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

Chicken Fillets:

• 1 pound chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts), cut into small fillets or strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Buns:

• 12 mini slider buns or soft dinner rolls
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Toppings:

• 2-3 tablespoons honey (optional for sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or a creamy sauce of your choice (optional)
• Pickles or lettuce (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Fillets

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If using whole chicken breasts, slice them into smaller fillets or strips, about 2-3 inches long. You can also use chicken tenders, which are naturally the right size for this recipe. To tenderize and flavor the chicken, place the pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and let them soak in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight if you have time). This will help tenderize the chicken and ensure it stays juicy when cooked.

2. Make the Coating Mixture

While the chicken is soaking, prepare the flour mixture for coating the chicken. In a large shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.

After the chicken has marinated in the buttermilk, remove the pieces one by one, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the chicken fillets in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken aside on a plate.

3. Fry the Chicken Fillets

Heat a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat, and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about ½ inch. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully add the coated chicken fillets to the oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken fillets, making sure the oil stays at the right temperature for even cooking.

4. Prepare the Buns

While the chicken is frying, you can prepare the buns. Brush each mini bun or dinner roll with melted butter and place them on a baking sheet. You can either toast the buns in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or if you prefer, you can toast them in a skillet for a golden, crispy exterior. Toasting the buns adds extra flavor and helps prevent them from getting soggy when the chicken is added.

5. Assemble the Chicken Minis

Once the chicken fillets are cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble the Chicken Minis. Place a fried chicken fillet on the bottom half of each mini bun. If desired, drizzle a small amount of honey over the chicken for a touch of sweetness, or spread some mayonnaise or your favorite creamy sauce on the top bun. You can also add pickles, lettuce, or any other toppings you like at this stage.

Place the top bun over the chicken, gently pressing down to create a mini sandwich. Repeat this process until all 12 Chicken Minis are assembled.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the Chicken Minis are assembled, they are ready to serve! These little sandwiches are perfect for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or even as a meal. Serve them with a side of fries, chips, or a fresh salad, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Minis

• Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only helps tenderize it but also adds flavor. For the best results, allow the chicken to soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
• Adjust the Coating: You can adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture to match your tastes. Add more cayenne for heat, or increase the garlic and onion powder for a richer flavor. If you prefer a crunchier coating, add more cornstarch.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken fillets, be sure to cook them in batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy chicken. Frying in batches ensures the chicken stays crispy and golden.
• Use Fresh Buns: Fresh, soft mini buns or slider rolls work best for Chicken Minis. If you use stale buns, they may become soggy and fall apart when you add the chicken. Toasting the buns lightly also adds a nice texture.
• Customize the Sauce: While honey and mayonnaise are popular options, feel free to get creative with your sauces. Barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even spicy mustard can all add a unique flavor to your Chicken Minis.
• Add Veggies for Crunch: For added freshness and crunch, consider adding pickles, lettuce, or even sliced tomatoes to your Chicken Minis. These vegetables can balance out the richness of the fried chicken and add a refreshing contrast.

Variations of Chicken Minis

• Spicy Chicken Minis: For a spicier kick, add a generous amount of hot sauce or spicy mayo to the Chicken Minis. You can also use spicy fried chicken fillets, such as those coated with a spicy seasoning or hot sauce before frying.
• Grilled Chicken Minis: If you prefer a lighter option, swap out the fried chicken for grilled chicken. Marinate the chicken breasts in a flavorful marinade, grill them until cooked through, and slice them into smaller pieces to fit on the buns.
• Chicken and Waffle Minis: For a fun twist, serve the fried chicken fillets between mini waffles instead of buns. Drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for brunch or breakfast.
• Buffalo Chicken Minis: Coat the fried chicken in buffalo sauce before assembling the sandwiches. Add blue cheese dressing or ranch dressing to complement the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• Chicken Minis with Cheese: Add a slice of cheese to each chicken fillet before placing it on the buns. American cheese, cheddar, or Swiss cheese all melt beautifully and add extra flavor to the Chicken Minis.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken Minis are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to ensure the buns don’t become soggy.

If you want to freeze Chicken Minis, you can freeze the fried chicken fillets separately from the buns. To reheat, bake the chicken at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through, then assemble the sandwiches with fresh buns.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Minis

Chicken Minis are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:

• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries are always a crowd-pleaser and make a perfect side for Chicken Minis. Try sweet potato fries for a slightly sweeter contrast.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch and balance out the richness of the fried chicken.
• Vegetable Chips: For a healthier alternative to traditional chips, serve the Chicken Minis with vegetable chips or a side salad.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve the Chicken Minis with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo.
• Pickles: The tartness of pickles pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the chicken and adds an extra layer of crunch.

Print

Conclusion

Chicken Minis are a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make snack or meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy chicken, soft buns, and your favorite toppings and sauces, these little sandwiches are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick meal, Chicken Minis are versatile, customizable, and delicious.

By following this simple recipe and using the tips and variations provided, you can create your own version of Chicken Minis that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy these tasty mini sandwiches that are sure to become a family favorite!