Chipotle Chicken Sliders with Avocado

Name: Chipotle Chicken Sliders with Avocado
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 sliders
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 slider buns; Sliced avocado for topping; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Speedy Kitchen Ideas

I absolutely love making these Chipotle Chicken Sliders with Avocado for gatherings because they are packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. The smoky chipotle sauce combined with tender chicken creates a delightful flavor profile that pleases everyone at the table. Topped with creamy avocado and fresh toppings, these sliders are the perfect handheld treat. Each bite provides a burst of taste that leaves you craving more. Plus, they're quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve guests.

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:01:28.445Z

When I decided to create these Chipotle Chicken Sliders with Avocado, I wanted something that was both spicy and fresh. After experimenting with different seasoning blends, I found that using chipotle in adobo sauce gave the chicken a wonderful smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado. To enhance the taste, I grill the chicken instead of baking it, which adds a delicious char without drying it out.

The process was a hit—each slider was bursting with flavor. One tip I’d offer is to let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding it; this keeps it juicy and makes handling much easier. Serving these sliders with a side of slaw adds a refreshing crunch, bringing the dish together beautifully!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and smoky flavors that excite your palate
Creamy avocado adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken
Perfect for casual gatherings or a quick family dinner

      

Mastering the Chicken Sliders

The foundation of these sliders is the seasoned ground chicken, which is incredibly versatile. The chipotle in adobo sauce not only infuses a smoky heat but also moistens the chicken, ensuring that your sliders remain juicy. If you want to adjust the heat level, use only a portion of the chipotle sauce initially, then taste the mixture before forming the patties. This way, you can tailor the spice level to your preference, making it accessible for friends or family who might not be fans of intense heat.

When shaping the patties, make sure they’re slightly larger than your slider buns, as they will shrink slightly while cooking. I recommend flattening them a bit to ensure even cooking. Be mindful of the cooking time; overcooked chicken can become dry and tough—aim to cook until the patties are golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Creative Serving and Storage Ideas

These sliders shine at casual gatherings, but they can also be dressed up for more formal occasions. Consider adding a variety of toppings such as jalapeños for added heat, pickled onions for a tangy crunch, or a drizzle of lime crema to enhance the flavors. A side of chips or a fresh salad makes excellent accompaniments, creating a well-rounded meal that can cater to different tastes.

Should you have leftovers, store the chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in a skillet over low heat, covering them with a lid to retain moisture. If you wish to freeze the cooked sliders, wrap them individually in foil and store them in a freezer bag. When you want to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on a grill or skillet, which helps restore their original texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious sliders:

For the Chicken Sliders

1 lb ground chicken
2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
6 slider buns
Sliced avocado for topping
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to customize your sliders with additional toppings like cheese and lettuce!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your sliders:

Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced chipotle in adobo, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Form the Sliders

Divide the chicken mixture into 6 equal portions and form them into slider patties.

Cook the Sliders

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the sliders for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reached 165°F.

Assemble the Sliders

Place the cooked sliders on the buns, top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your homemade sliders with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime to the avocado topping before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier alternative, try using ground turkey instead of ground chicken. It will yield a lighter slider without sacrificing flavor, especially when seasoned well. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as turkey can sometimes cook faster, so always check for that safe internal temperature of 165°F.

If you’re aiming for a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for a combination of black beans and quinoa, seasoned with the same spices. The texture will differ, but the bold flavors will still shine through. Just ensure the mixture holds together well by adding breadcrumbs or an egg to bind.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your sliders breaking apart while cooking, it can often be due to an insufficient binding element. Ensure that your mixture includes enough moisture from the adobo sauce and consider adding some breadcrumbs to help maintain the structure. This is especially important if using lean chicken, which tends to be drier.

When cooking the sliders, if they aren’t getting that nice brown color, check your pan’s heat. A medium-high heat is ideal; too low, and they’ll steam instead of sear. If needed, you can always give them an extra minute or two on each side to achieve that perfect golden brown appearance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or beef instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or beef, but adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats.

→ How can I make these sliders spicier?

Add more chipotle sauce or include sliced jalapeños as a topping for added heat.

→ Can I prepare the sliders ahead of time?

You can form the patties and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. They can also be frozen for later use.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

These sliders go great with coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.