BBQ Chicken Sliders with Watermelon, Cucumber, Feta and Mint Salad

Crystal and Lataevia head to the CML kitchen to meet another participant in CWB's Spice program.

Sliders Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or slow cooker/grilled works best)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 package slider buns (12-count)
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ⅓ tsp dried oregano

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
2. Set aside while you prepare the buns.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping them connected if possible
5. Place the bottom half of the buns on a baking dish or sheet pan
6. Evenly spread the BBQ chicken over the bottom buns.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chicken.
8. Place the top half of the buns back on.
9. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, and salt.
10. Brush the tops of the buns generously with the herb garlic butter mixture.
11. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is melted.
12. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes to let the tops get golden brown.
13. Remove from oven, let rest a minute, then slice into sliders.

Salad Ingredients:

• 3 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced (English cucumber works best)
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon cubes, cucumber slices, crumbled feta, and chopped mint.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
3. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Toss gently and serve chilled alongside the sliders.