Craving a yummy meal that’s easy to make? Try my Cherry Cola Chicken Sliders! With juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, these sliders are sure to impress. You only need a few simple ingredients like cherry cola, soy sauce, and fresh toppings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these sliders are fast, fun, and full of flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Chicken thighs
– Cherry cola
– Soy sauce
– Ketchup
Additional Ingredients
– Apple cider vinegar
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Olive oil
Toppings and Buns
– Slider buns
– Fresh baby spinach or arugula
– Sliced pickles
The main ingredients are simple but very flavorful. Chicken thighs bring tenderness and juiciness. Cherry cola adds a sweet and tangy flavor. Soy sauce gives a nice umami kick, while ketchup balances it with a hint of sweetness.
When it comes to additional ingredients, apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity. Garlic powder and onion powder enhance the taste without being too strong. Olive oil is key for grilling and adds richness.
For toppings, slider buns hold everything together. Fresh baby spinach or arugula adds a nice crunch and freshness. Sliced pickles provide a tangy bite that contrasts well with the sweetness of the chicken.
These ingredients blend to create a fun and tasty meal. You can find the full recipe for Cherry Cola Chicken Sliders in the link above. Each bite feels like a little party!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinade Preparation
To make the marinade, gather a medium mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of cherry cola, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, and 1/4 cup of ketchup. Pour in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Next, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together until smooth.
For marinating time, use a large resealable bag. Place the chicken thighs inside and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For best results, let it marinate overnight.
Cooking the Chicken
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. It should be hot before you add the chicken. Take the chicken out of the marinade, but keep the marinade for later use. Brush the grill with olive oil to stop sticking. Place the chicken on the grill. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) inside.
While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade into a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Assembly of the Sliders
Once the chicken is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Use two forks to shred the cooked chicken. You can also chop it into small pieces if you prefer. Toss the shredded chicken in the thickened marinade until every piece is coated.
For assembly, take the bottom half of a slider bun. Add a generous scoop of the cherry cola chicken. Top with a handful of fresh spinach or arugula. Finish with some sliced pickles. Place the top half of the bun on top.
Enjoy your Cherry Cola Chicken Sliders! You can find the Full Recipe for more details and tips.
Tips & Tricks
Grilling Tips
To avoid sticking, brush your grill with olive oil before cooking. This simple step helps the chicken slide right off. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Aim for about 5-7 minutes per side. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Flavor Enhancement
For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika or chili powder on the chicken. These spices add a nice kick. When it comes to sides, coleslaw or potato salad pairs well. You can also serve these sliders with a side of sweet potato fries for a fun twist.
Presentation Tips
To present your sliders, arrange them on a rustic wooden board. This makes for a charming display. Include a small bowl of pickles and a dish of the thickened marinade as a dipping sauce. This adds flair and flavor, making your sliders look even more inviting. These tips will help you impress your guests at any gathering. Enjoy your delicious creation with friends and family!
Variations
Different Proteins
You can swap chicken for other proteins. Pulled pork works great with cherry cola. It adds a rich, smoky flavor. Tofu is a fantastic choice for a vegan option. It absorbs the marinade well and gives a nice texture. Turkey is another lean alternative that can also shine in this recipe.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to get creative with spices. Adding smoked paprika gives a nice, warm kick. You can also try chili powder for some heat. Other soda flavors can work too! Root beer can add a unique twist. Lemon-lime soda brings brightness and a fresh taste.
Dietary Considerations
If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. This keeps the flavor while making it safe for your diet. For vegan adaptations, replace chicken with jackfruit or tempeh. Both options soak up the marinade well. Ensure the buns are gluten-free or vegan to match your needs.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To keep your Cherry Cola Chicken Sliders fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors. They stay good in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Before serving again, check for any off smells or discoloration. If it looks or smells funny, it’s best to toss it.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save sliders for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method keeps them from getting freezer burn. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Techniques
You can reheat your sliders in a few ways. The oven method is best for keeping them crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the sliders in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too. Just place the slider on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for 30 seconds. Check and heat more if needed, but avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use diet cherry cola?
Yes, you can use diet cherry cola. However, the flavor will change. Diet cola lacks the full sweetness of regular cola. This may lead to a less rich taste in your sliders. You might want to add a bit of extra sugar or honey to balance it out. If you prefer a lighter version, diet cola will work, but expect a different flavor.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
I recommend marinating the chicken for at least one hour. For the best taste, try to marinate it overnight. This gives the chicken time to soak up all the tasty flavors. Longer marination makes the chicken more tender and flavorful. Just avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as it can get mushy.
What sides pair well with Cherry Cola Chicken Sliders?
Great sides for these sliders include:
– Coleslaw
– Sweet potato fries
– Grilled corn on the cob
– Potato salad
– Fresh veggie sticks
These sides bring out the sweet and tangy flavors of the sliders. They also add a fresh crunch for a balanced meal. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations! For a full recipe, check out the complete guide on Cherry Cola Chicken Sliders.
This blog post provided a detailed guide to making Cherry Cola Chicken Sliders. You learned about the key ingredients, including chicken thighs and cherry cola, and got step-by-step cooking instructions. Tips for grilling, flavor enhancements, and storage info were also included. I hope you feel inspired to try new variations and serve these tasty sliders at your next gathering. Embrace creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy making these delicious bites!
