1-First Step: Marinate and prep (10 minutes active, 15-30 minutes recommended marination)* Combine the spice mix: In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or alternative), 1 teaspoon black pepper powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano.* Add oil: Stir 2 tablespoons oil into the spice mix to form a paste that will cling to the chicken.* Marinate chicken: Toss 1.2 pounds of chicken thigh strips with the spice and oil mixture until fully coated. Let sit 15 to 30 minutes if you have time. For best flavor, marinate up to 2 hours in the fridge.* Slice vegetables: While the chicken marinades, cut 1 bell pepper and 1 small onion into thin strips so they cook quickly and evenly.* Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F so it is ready once the skillet work is done.

2-Second Step: Sear the chicken (about 8-10 minutes)* Use a heavy skillet like cast iron for the best browning. Heat the skillet over high heat until very hot. Add a splash of oil if the chicken was marinated with less fat.* Add chicken strips in a single layer; avoid overcrowding to get a good sear. Cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to develop color, then stir and continue cooking until the chicken is nearly done, about 5 to 7 minutes total depending on thickness.

3-Third Step: Add vegetables and finish on the stove (4-6 minutes)* Add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet with the chicken. Toss and cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, 4 to 5 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through but still juicy.* Optional creamy step: For creamier fajita sliders, stir in 1/2 cup sour cream or 2 ounces of cream cheese at this stage and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to create a saucy coating. This is what turns standard chicken sliders into creamy chicken fajita sliders.

4-Fourth Step: Assemble the sliders (5 minutes)* Prepare the buns: Slice 12 slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in a baking dish or on a sheet pan large enough to hold them side by side.* Layer filling: Evenly divide the chicken and vegetable mixture across the bottom halves of the buns. Sprinkle 1 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese over the mixture so it will melt and bind the sliders.* Top and brush: Place the top halves of the buns on the sliders. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons melted butter with 1 teaspoon minced garlic and chopped cilantro or parsley to taste. Brush the garlic butter generously over the tops of the buns.

5-Final Step: Bake and serve (10-15 minutes)* Bake at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden. Watch closely near the end since different cheeses melt at different rates.* Remove from oven and let sit 1 minute. Serve immediately while warm and gooey. These sliders make a great appetizer or main and are both kid- and adult-friendly.