Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken sliders are a crowd-pleaser, and our Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders take this classic to the next level. These sliders are perfect for summer cookouts, game days, or family dinners. With smoky flavors, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, they’re sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: These sliders come together in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
  • Versatile Flavors: Combining BBQ chicken with ranch and bacon creates a flavor explosion that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these sliders fit right in and are easy to serve.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and assemble the sliders just before serving, making meal prep a breeze.
  • Fun to Eat: Handheld sliders make for a fun dining experience, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a casual night in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Grill
  • Skillet
  • Zip-top bag or bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor on the chicken. A good grill ensures even cooking.
  • Skillet: Perfect for cooking crispy bacon. It helps control the heat while rendering fat effectively.
  • Zip-top bag or bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken; it allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
  • Knife & Cutting board: Necessary for slicing ingredients cleanly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Sliders

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 4-inch pieces
  • 1 pack Hawaiian rolls, 12 count

For the Toppings

  • 8 slices bacon
  • 2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1/4 red onion, sliced
  • 12 squares Colby jack cheese, cracker-cut size is perfect

How to Make Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a zip-top bag or bowl, combine chicken with 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
  2. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally up to 4 hours).

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

  1. In a skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crispy.
  2. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Grill the marinated chicken for about 3 minutes per side.
  3. Baste with an additional ½ cup barbecue sauce while grilling.
  4. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

  1. Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally.
  2. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves of each roll.
  3. Layer grilled chicken on top, followed by extra barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

  1. Place Colby jack cheese over the chicken.
  2. Add crispy bacon, sliced red onions, and shredded lettuce on top.
  3. Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Place top buns on each slider.
  2. Slice into individual sliders and enjoy!

With this simple recipe for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’ll create deliciousness that everyone will love! Perfect for any gathering or just a special treat at home!

How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in a variety of ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate these sliders.

Casual Get-Together

  • Buffalo Wings – Pair these sliders with spicy buffalo wings for a classic combination.
  • Veggie Platter – Serve with a fresh veggie platter and ranch dip for a crunchy contrast.

Family Dinner

  • Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that complements the smoky flavors.
  • Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a summer vibe to your dinner table.

Game Day Feast

  • Chips and Salsa – Offer tortilla chips with salsa for a simple, crowd-pleasing snack.
  • Nachos – A plate of nachos topped with cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream is sure to thrill fans.

Picnic Favorite

  • Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad pairs well with the sliders, making it an ideal picnic side.
  • Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the sliders.
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How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

To make your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders even more irresistible, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality barbecue sauce for the best flavor.
  • Customize Your Buns – Experiment with different types of buns like pretzel or sesame for added taste.
  • Grill Over Indirect Heat – For juicier chicken, grill over indirect heat to prevent drying out.
  • Let Them Rest – After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing; this retains moisture.
  • Add Extra Toppings – Feel free to include avocado slices or jalapeños for additional flavor options.
  • Keep It Warm – If serving at a gathering, keep sliders warm in a slow cooker on low heat.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Pairing side dishes with your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors perfectly.

  1. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft and buttery breadsticks add a comforting element to the meal.
  2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
  3. Macaroni and Cheese – This classic dish offers cheesy goodness that everyone loves.
  4. Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans provide another layer of flavor and richness.
  5. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the savory sliders.
  6. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies make an appealing side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

  • Not Marinating Enough: Skipping the marination step or not allowing enough time will lead to chicken that lacks flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum taste.
  • Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees for juicy results.
  • Skipping the Bacon Prep: Not cooking bacon until crispy can result in a chewy texture. Low and slow cooking ensures it becomes perfectly crispy for your sliders.
  • Forgetting the Vegetables: Neglecting fresh toppings like lettuce and onions can make your sliders less appealing. These add crunch and freshness, enhancing the overall flavor.
  • Improper Storage: Not sealing sliders well during storage can lead to sogginess. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
  • They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

  • Wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
  • They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap sliders in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re new to making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders or have some queries, here are answers to common questions.

Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you can use any slider bun you prefer, such as brioche or whole wheat.

How can I customize my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Feel free to add other toppings like pickles, jalapeños, or even avocado to enhance your sliders further!

Are these sliders suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These sliders hold up well when prepped ahead of time, making them great for lunches or gatherings.

What sides pair well with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Consider serving them with coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a weeknight dinner, these sliders promise satisfaction with every bite. Feel free to customize your toppings and enjoy this comforting dish!

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Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x

Description

Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders! Perfect for summer cookouts, game days, or cozy family dinners, this recipe elevates classic sliders with a combination of smoky barbecue chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. Ready in just 30 minutes, these handheld treats are not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to impress both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a casual night in, these sliders promise to be a hit at every gathering.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
  • 12 Hawaiian rolls
  • 8 slices bacon
  • 2 cups barbecue sauce
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1/4 red onion
  • 12 squares Colby jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy; set aside.
  3. Grill marinated chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, basting with more barbecue sauce.
  4. Slice Hawaiian rolls and spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves.
  5. Layer grilled chicken, cheese, bacon, onions, and lettuce on the rolls.
  6. Drizzle with ranch dressing and top with the other half of the rolls before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slider (100g)
  • Calories: 295
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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