Cranberry chicken ham Sliders

Looking for a delicious way to enjoy your leftover chicken? These Cranberry chicken ham Sliders are the perfect solution! They combine sweet and savory flavors in a fun, bite-sized format that’s great for parties, game days, or simple family dinners. With easy preparation and a crowd-pleasing taste, these sliders will become a favorite at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of cranberry sauce and Swiss cheese creates a delightful balance of sweetness and creaminess.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer, lunch, or even a main course, these sliders can fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves sliders! They’re easy to serve and even easier to eat.
• Leftover Friendly: Perfect for using up leftover chicken while minimizing food waste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your delicious sliders, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (9×13)
• Aluminum foil
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and makes it easy to assemble all the ingredients together.
• Aluminum foil: Helps keep the sliders moist while baking and prevents them from getting too brown.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Cranberry chicken ham Sliders:

For the Sliders

• 12 count package Hawaiian rolls
• 10 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 lb. leftover copycat HoneyBaked chicken ham (or sliced deli chicken ham)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce

For the Sauce

• 2 Tbsp dijon mustard
• 5 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp dried minced onion
• 1 tsp poppy seeds
• 2 Tbsp light brown sugar

How to Make Cranberry chicken ham Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This will ensure that your sliders bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13 baking pan lightly with butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
2. Place the bottom halves in the prepared baking pan.
3. Layer half of the Swiss cheese on the bottom halves of the rolls.
4. Evenly distribute the leftover chicken ham over the cheese.
5. Spread cranberry sauce on top of the chicken ham layer.
6. Add the remaining Swiss cheese on top of the cranberry sauce.
7. Place the top halves of the rolls back onto each slider.

Step 4: Make the Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine dijon mustard, melted unsalted butter, dried minced onion, poppy seeds, and light brown sugar. Mix well.

Step 5: Brush on Sauce

Using a brush or spoon, spread the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls until they are well coated.

Step 6: Cover with Foil

Cover the baking pan with aluminum foil to keep moisture in while baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through and slightly golden.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from oven, let cool slightly before cutting into individual sliders. Serve warm and enjoy!

With this simple recipe for Cranberry chicken ham Sliders, you’ll have a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Perfect for any gathering or as an easy dinner option!

How to Serve Cranberry chicken ham Sliders

Cranberry chicken ham sliders are a delightful addition to any gathering or meal. Their sweet and savory flavors make them versatile for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

For a Holiday Gathering

• Festive Platter: Arrange sliders on a decorative platter with fresh herbs and cranberries for a holiday touch.
• Mini Sandwiches: Serve them as mini sandwiches during cocktail hour for an easy-to-eat option.

With a Side of Soup

• Comforting Pairing: Pair these sliders with a warm bowl of butternut squash soup for a cozy meal on chilly days.
• Tomato Basil Soup: A classic tomato basil soup complements the sweetness of the cranberry sauce beautifully.

At a Picnic

• Portable Snack: Pack sliders in individual containers for easy transport, making them perfect for picnics or outdoor events.
• Snack Attack: Include some fresh fruits like apple slices or grapes to balance the flavors.

Game Day Delight

• Finger Food Fun: Serve sliders on game day alongside chips and salsa for an enjoyable snack while watching the game.
• Themed Decor: Add team colors to your serving table with colorful napkins or plates to enhance the spirit.

How to Perfect Cranberry chicken ham Sliders

To ensure your cranberry chicken ham sliders turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh rolls and homemade cranberry sauce when possible for the best flavor.
• Butter Generously: Apply melted butter over the top before baking for a golden, crispy finish.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your cranberry sauce before using it; feel free to add more sugar or spices if desired.
• Layer Wisely: Place cheese directly against the bread to prevent sogginess from the sauce and keep sliders intact.
• Baking Time Matters: Keep an eye on your sliders during baking; they should be golden brown but not overly toasted.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry chicken ham Sliders

Cranberry chicken ham sliders pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and savory profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, sweet potato fries add a delightful crunch and pair well with the flavors of the sliders.
2. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides freshness alongside the richness of the sliders.
3. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the sweetness of the cranberry sauce perfectly.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors that contrast nicely with your sliders’ sweetness.
5. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad is always a hit at gatherings and complements any sandwich dish well.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich, savory sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cranberry chicken ham Sliders can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will enhance your final product.

• Bold Preparation: Not prepping ingredients ahead of time can lead to chaos. Always gather and measure your ingredients before you start cooking.
• Bold Overcooking the Sliders: Cooking the sliders too long can dry them out. Keep an eye on them in the oven to ensure they stay moist and flavorful.
• Bold Ignoring Flavor Balance: Skipping the mustard or using too much cranberry sauce can upset the flavor balance. Use both in moderation for a well-rounded taste.
• Bold Using Stale Rolls: Old Hawaiian rolls can ruin your sliders. Make sure to use fresh rolls for the best texture and flavor.
• Bold Skipping Cooling Time: Cutting into sliders immediately after baking can make them messy. Allow them to cool slightly for easier serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cranberry chicken ham Sliders

• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cranberry chicken ham Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each slider on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cranberry chicken ham Sliders.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute Swiss cheese with provolone or cheddar based on your preference.

How do I make these sliders vegetarian?

You can replace the chicken ham with grilled vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

What sides pair well with Cranberry chicken ham Sliders?

Serve with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or coleslaw for a delightful meal.

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them and store them in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry chicken ham Sliders are perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply as a comforting meal at home. Their sweet and savory blend makes them versatile; you can customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delicious sliders that everyone will love!