Hibiscus Lemonade Sliders

Name: Hibiscus Lemonade Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 4 slider buns; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup hibiscus lemonade; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup cucumber, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers; 4 cups water; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 cup fresh lemon juice; Ice for serving

Highlighted under: Around World Recipes

I absolutely love making Hibiscus Lemonade Sliders for summer gatherings! The refreshing taste of hibiscus blended with tangy lemon creates a delightful flavor combination that everyone enjoys. These sliders are not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that transport me to a sunny afternoon. As I prepare them, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma fill my kitchen, making it impossible to resist a taste. Perfect for barbecues or picnics, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests asking for the recipe!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T21:33:28.142Z

When I first experimented with hibiscus lemonade, I never imagined it would lead to such a fantastic slider creation. The floral notes from the hibiscus paired with the zesty lemon are a match made in flavor heaven. Each bite is a celebration of summer!

To enhance the experience, I like to make my own hibiscus tea by steeping dried flowers in hot water. This adds a depth that store-bought mixes simply can’t replicate. I also recommend toasting the slider buns lightly—this adds texture and allows the flavors to shine!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A refreshing twist on traditional sliders
Bright, vibrant colors that are perfect for summer
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings

      

Perfectly Cooked Chicken

When preparing chicken for your sliders, opt for a poaching method to keep the meat moist and tender. Place the chicken in a pot covered with water or broth, and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After cooling, shred the chicken using two forks. This technique not only enhances flavor but also ensures the chicken incorporates well with the creamy elements of the filling.

If you’ve got leftover rotisserie chicken, feel free to use that as a time-saving alternative. Just shred it and mix it with the other ingredients as described. This shortcut still offers a tasty filling for your sliders with minimal preparation time.

Understanding Hibiscus Lemonade

The star of these sliders is the homemade hibiscus lemonade, which brings a distinct tartness that complements the cream cheese and chicken filling. When steeping the dried hibiscus flowers, aim for a vibrant ruby-red hue in the liquid, signaling that the flavors have fully extracted. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, hibiscus is rich in antioxidants and can provide a tangy depth that balances the richness of cream cheese.

Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the lemonade based on your personal preference. If you like it more tart, consider reducing the sugar slightly or adding more lemon juice. Additionally, if fresh lemons are not available, bottled lemon juice is a suitable substitute, though fresh will yield the brightest flavor.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

These sliders are best served fresh, while the buns are still warm and slightly crispy. However, if you prepare a batch ahead of time, store the sliders assembled but uncut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat them in an oven set to 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their original texture before serving.

For a fun presentation at summer gatherings, consider serving the sliders with extra hibiscus lemonade and a side of fresh cucumber slices. This not only enhances the refreshing theme but also provides a crunchy, cool contrast to the creamy sliders. You can also experiment with toppings such as arugula or sprouts for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Hibiscus Lemonade Sliders

For Sliders

4 slider buns
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup hibiscus lemonade
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup cucumber, diced
Salt and pepper to taste

For Hibiscus Lemonade

1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers
4 cups water
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup fresh lemon juice
Ice for serving

Instructions

How to Make Hibiscus Lemonade Sliders

Prepare the hibiscus lemonade

In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the dried hibiscus flowers. Let steep for about 10 minutes. Strain and stir in sugar while still warm. Once cooled, add fresh lemon juice. Serve over ice.

Make the slider filling

In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, diced cucumber, and hibiscus lemonade. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the bottom half of each bun, then top with the other half. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.

Serve and Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add some fresh herbs like mint or basil to the filling for added flavor.

Troubleshooting the Sliders

While making the slider filling, be cautious with the amount of hibiscus lemonade you add. Too much liquid can create a runny mixture, making it difficult to assemble the sliders. Start with the recommended 1/2 cup and adjust based on the consistency. If it becomes too wet, consider adding more soften cream cheese to thicken it up.

If your slider buns turn out overly dry after toasting, try brushing them lightly with olive oil or melted butter before toasting. This infusion of moisture can help enhance flavor and create a more enjoyable texture that pairs well with the creamy filling.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the slider filling! Swap out chicken for shredded pork or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any protein used is seasoned well to match the zesty flavor of the hibiscus lemonade. For an added crunch, consider mixing in shredded carrots or bell peppers.

If you want to introduce a bit more heat, try adding a dash of chili powder or diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. This contrast between the spicy and sweet flavors can make for an interesting and exciting culinary experience, especially during summer barbecue parties.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought hibiscus juice?

Yes, store-bought hibiscus juice works well, but homemade offers a fresher taste.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

Feel free to use shredded turkey or a plant-based substitute for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I make this recipe spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken filling for some heat.

→ Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the sliders just before serving.