Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken Sliders

If you’re craving a hearty, mouthwatering meal that’s easy to prepare and loved by everyone, Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken Sliders are the way to go. This dish takes the classic Mississippi Pot Roast and gives it a fun twist with tender shredded chicken piled onto soft slider buns. Whether you’re preparing for a party, family gathering, or a weeknight dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to make these delicious, savory treats—from understanding their roots to assembling the perfect sliders.

Understanding Mississippi Chicken Sliders

Mississippi Chicken Sliders have quickly become a favorite in homes across the U.S., especially for their simple yet bold flavors. These sliders are inspired by the famous Mississippi Pot Roast, which is known for its savory, pepperoncini-infused taste. But instead of beef, we use chicken, making it lighter yet equally delicious.

Origin and History

So, where did this tasty creation come from? The dish is an offshoot of Mississippi Pot Roast, a comforting classic that has its roots in Southern cuisine. The original Mississippi Pot Roast features a beef roast slow-cooked with ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers. Over time, Mississippi chicken emerged as a faster, chicken-based alternative, perfect for those looking for a lighter, quicker version.

In fact, this variation grew in popularity thanks to its ease of preparation. By using the crockpot, the chicken becomes fall-apart tender, soaked in the tangy, spicy flavor from the pepperoncini peppers and the rich seasonings.

Key Ingredients

To make Mississippi Chicken Sliders, you don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients. Here’s the lowdown on what you’ll need:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Choose thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts will work perfectly too.
• Ranch dressing mix – A staple in Mississippi dishes, it adds a creamy, zesty flavor.
• Au jus gravy mix – This brings the savory depth of flavor that makes Mississippi Chicken so irresistible.
• Pepperoncini peppers – These provide that signature tang and a mild kick of heat.
• Butter – Adds richness to the dish, helping to tenderize the chicken and enhance flavor.
• Slider buns – Soft buns like Hawaiian rolls are the best choice to complement the juicy chicken.
• Cheese – Provolone or mozzarella cheese slices work beautifully for a melty finish.

While these are the basic ingredients, you can always customize to your taste. For example, try using a spicy ranch dressing mix or adding extra pepperoncini for a greater zing.

By understanding the roots and core ingredients of this dish, you’re ready to move on to creating it in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, Mississippi Chicken Sliders are the perfect recipe for impressing your guests with minimal effort.

Health Considerations

When it comes to Mississippi Chicken Sliders, they’re undeniably tasty, but it’s also important to consider their nutritional content. Let’s break it down and see how you can make this dish fit into a balanced lifestyle.

Nutritional Profile

Mississippi Chicken Sliders, while delicious, are a bit indulgent. The combination of butter, ranch seasoning, and the cheese can add up in calories. On average, one slider can contain around 300-400 calories. Of course, the exact number will vary depending on the size of your sliders and the specific ingredients you use.

• Protein: Chicken is a great source of protein, so you’ll get a solid protein boost with each slider.
• Fat: The butter and cheese contribute a fair amount of fat, making these sliders rich and satisfying.
• Carbs: The slider buns are the main source of carbs, so if you’re watching your carb intake, you might want to opt for a smaller bun or a lower-carb alternative.

Additionally, keep in mind that some ingredients, like ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix, contain added sodium. So if you’re keeping an eye on your salt intake, it’s something to watch out for.

Healthier Modifications

Not everyone is looking for a calorie-heavy dish, and that’s okay! There are plenty of ways to lighten up your Mississippi Chicken Sliders without sacrificing flavor.

• Lean Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Breasts are lower in fat and calories but still provide plenty of protein.
• Healthier Buns: Try using whole-grain or even gluten-free buns if you prefer. These options can add extra fiber to your sliders.
• Reduce Butter: Instead of using a whole stick of butter, try cutting it down or replacing it with olive oil or avocado oil for a healthier fat option. You won’t lose much flavor, and your sliders will still be rich and delicious.

Small tweaks like these can help you enjoy this comforting dish without overloading on fats and calories. Keep in mind, it’s all about balance. So, feel free to make adjustments that suit your preferences and dietary needs. That way, you can enjoy Mississippi Chicken Sliders without feeling guilty.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making Mississippi Chicken Sliders in the Crock Pot is simple and requires minimal effort. Here’s how you can prepare this delicious dish with ease.

Ingredients and Equipment

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients and tools:

Ingredients:

• 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 packet of ranch dressing mix
• 1 packet of au jus gravy mix
• 5-6 pepperoncini peppers (plus some juice)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls are a great choice)
• 12 slices of cheese (provolone, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)

Equipment:

• Crock pot (slow cooker)
• Shredder (or two forks)
• Baking sheet or oven-safe tray (for assembling sliders)

Instructions

Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to cook! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to follow:

• Prepare the Chicken
  • Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) into the Crock Pot.
  • Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken.
  • Add the pepperoncini peppers and pour in a little juice from the jar.
  • Place the butter on top of the chicken.
• Cook the Chicken
  • Set the Crock Pot to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high heat for 3-4 hours.
  • The chicken will become tender and fall apart easily.
• Shred the Chicken
  • Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the Crock Pot.
  • Mix everything together, making sure the chicken is coated in the flavorful juices.
• Assemble the Sliders
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottoms on a baking sheet.
  • Pile the shredded chicken onto each bun, adding a slice of cheese on top.
  • Place the bun tops over the chicken and cheese.
• Bake and Serve
  • Bake the sliders in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and serve hot.

In just a few hours, you’ll have delicious Mississippi Chicken Sliders ready to enjoy. These sliders are the perfect mix of tangy, savory, and a little bit of heat, making them a crowd favorite. So, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner, these sliders are sure to be a hit!

Variations and Customizations

Mississippi Chicken Sliders are already full of flavor, but there are plenty of ways to make them even more exciting. Whether you like a little extra spice or prefer different toppings, here are some easy ways to change up the recipe.

Spice Level Adjustments

If you enjoy a little kick, it’s simple to spice things up. Here are a few ideas:

• Extra Pepperoncini: Add more pepperoncini peppers to the crock pot for extra tang and heat. The more peppers you add, the spicier your chicken will be.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes along with the seasoning mix. This will give your sliders a spicy punch without overpowering the flavor.

Feel free to adjust the heat to your liking. A little goes a long way!

Cheese Options

While provolone and mozzarella are traditional, you can get creative with your cheese choices. Here are some ideas:

• Cheddar: Sharp cheddar works well if you want a stronger flavor. It pairs nicely with the savory chicken.
• Gouda: For a smoky twist, try gouda cheese. Its creamy texture and unique taste will make your sliders stand out.
• Swiss: If you prefer a milder cheese, Swiss is a great option. It melts well and has a subtle flavor.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

Additional Toppings

Sometimes, toppings can make all the difference. Here are some tasty options to take your sliders to the next level:

• Coleslaw: Add a scoop of crunchy coleslaw on top of the chicken for some extra texture and flavor. The creamy slaw pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
• Pickles: If you like a little tanginess, top your sliders with sliced pickles. Dill or bread-and-butter pickles both work great.
• Sautéed Onions: For a deeper, sweeter flavor, try adding sautéed onions. They bring a rich, caramelized taste that balances the tanginess of the peppers.

Alternative Breads

While slider buns are perfect for this recipe, there are other bread options to consider. Here are a few alternatives:

• Brioche Buns: Soft and slightly sweet, brioche buns make a luxurious base for your sliders.
• Whole-Grain Buns: For a healthier option, go for whole-grain buns. They add extra fiber and a slightly nutty flavor.
• Gluten-Free Buns: If you or your guests are gluten-free, there are many great gluten-free slider bun options available.

Switching up your bread can change the flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment!

With these simple adjustments, you can easily customize your Mississippi Chicken Sliders to suit your taste. Whether you’re adding spice, changing the cheese, or trying out new toppings, these sliders are versatile and fun to make!

Serving Suggestions

Once your Mississippi Chicken Sliders are ready, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside them. These sliders are so flavorful, but the right side dishes can really complete the meal.

Side Dishes

Pairing your sliders with the perfect side can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are a few great side options:

• Coleslaw: A classic pairing. The cool, crunchy texture of coleslaw balances out the rich, savory chicken. It adds a nice contrast to the warm sliders.
• Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy, potato salad is another favorite that works well with these sliders. Its richness complements the zesty chicken.
• Chips: If you’re looking for something simple, chips are always a winner. Whether you choose potato chips, tortilla chips, or even sweet potato chips, they’re crunchy and easy to serve.

These sides are perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Beverage Pairings

A refreshing drink can really bring the whole meal together. Here are a few drink ideas that go perfectly with Mississippi Chicken Sliders:

• Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened, iced tea is a light and refreshing choice. It complements the rich flavors of the sliders without overpowering them.
• Lemonade: The tangy sweetness of lemonade is a great match for the savory chicken. It adds a bright, refreshing contrast.
• Sparkling Water: If you want something lighter, sparkling water is a great option. It’s bubbly and refreshing, making it perfect for a meal that’s a little heavy.

These drinks are refreshing and balance out the rich, savory flavors of the sliders, making your meal even more enjoyable.

With the right sides and drinks, your Mississippi Chicken Sliders become the star of a great meal. These simple but delicious pairings will leave everyone satisfied!

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers after making your Mississippi Chicken Sliders, don’t worry! This dish stores and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it later.

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, you can easily store the leftover chicken and sliders. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Shredded Chicken: Store the leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for 3-4 days.
• Assembled Sliders: If you have leftover assembled sliders, you can wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in the fridge for 1-2 days.

Make sure to separate the chicken from the buns if you’re planning to store them for longer. This helps keep the buns from getting soggy.

Reheating Methods

When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, here are a few ways to reheat them:

• Oven: For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the buns are warm.
• Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, use the microwave. Heat the chicken in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes. If you’re reheating the entire slider, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds.
• Stovetop: You can also heat the chicken in a pan on low heat. Just add a little water or broth to keep the chicken moist. Heat until warm, then assemble your sliders.

Reheating is simple, and it’s just as tasty as when it was fresh. So don’t hesitate to save any leftovers for another meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re new to making Mississippi Chicken Sliders, you might have a few questions. Here are some of the most common ones, along with helpful answers.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can! Chicken breasts work well in this recipe. They will be a little leaner than thighs, but still juicy and tender when cooked in the slow cooker.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like things hot, you can add more pepperoncini peppers or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. For an even bigger kick, try adding a few slices of jalapeño peppers to the mix.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to make the sliders, just reheat the chicken and assemble the sliders.

What can I substitute for pepperoncini peppers?

If you’re not a fan of pepperoncini, you can use banana peppers or jalapeños for a slightly different flavor. Both options will still give you that tangy, slightly spicy taste.

Is it possible to freeze the assembled sliders?

Yes, you can freeze the sliders! After assembling, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze. When you’re ready to eat them, bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

These answers should help you get the most out of your Mississippi Chicken Sliders, whether you’re cooking them fresh or saving them for later!

Conclusion

Mississippi Chicken Sliders are a simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family meal, or just craving something tasty, these sliders hit the spot. The juicy chicken, zesty seasoning, and soft buns come together for a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

Remember, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. Add more spice, swap the cheese, or try a different topping—it’s all about making the dish your own. With just a few basic ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to go.

Give these sliders a try and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of the South right at home!

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