Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Grilled barbecue chicken is a summertime classic, and we’re enjoying these smoky sweet flavors in the form of a handheld Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders. Perfect for cookouts, game days, or family dinners, these sliders combine tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing for a delicious bite. They are easy to prepare and will impress your guests with their irresistible flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor – The combination of barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon creates an explosion of flavors that everyone will love.
- Quick to Prepare – With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these sliders in no time for unexpected guests or weeknight meals.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve them as appetizers at parties or as a main dish at family gatherings; these sliders fit any occasion perfectly.
- Crowd-Pleaser – With 12 sliders per batch, these are ideal for feeding a hungry crowd without much effort.
- Customizable Ingredients – Feel free to tweak the toppings or sauces based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
To make the perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skillet
- Zip-top bag or bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill – A grill provides that distinct smoky flavor that makes barbecue chicken truly irresistible.
- Skillet – Using a skillet allows you to cook bacon evenly until it’s crispy, enhancing the overall texture of the sliders.
- Zip-top bag or bowl – These are perfect for marinating the chicken, ensuring that every piece absorbs the flavorful barbecue sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Sliders
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 4 inch pieces
- 1 pack Hawaiian rolls, 12 count
- 8 slices bacon
- 2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
For the Toppings
- 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
- Marinate chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl with 1 cup barbecue sauce.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally 4 hours or overnight).
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- While chicken is marinating, cook the bacon in a skillet over low heat until crispy.
- Rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Prepare your grill to medium heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken about 3 minutes per side.
- Baste with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce while cooking.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
- Slice Hawaiian buns horizontally for sandwiches.
- Spread mayonnaise on bottom buns.
- Add grilled chicken and spread extra barbecue sauce if desired.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Top each slider with cheese slices.
- Add crispy bacon, red onions, and shredded lettuce.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over lettuce.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Place top buns on sliders.
- Slice them into individual servings and enjoy!
These Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are sure to become a favorite in your household, making any gathering special with their delightful taste!
How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Serving Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is a delightful experience that brings everyone together. These sliders are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or casual dinners. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
For a Casual BBQ
- Paper Plates: Use colorful paper plates for easy cleanup and a festive feel.
- Condiment Station: Set up a station with extra barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and pickles for customization.
As Party Appetizers
- Mini Slider Baskets: Present the sliders in small baskets lined with parchment paper for a charming touch.
- Skewers: Insert toothpicks or skewers into each slider for easy handling, especially at parties.
With Fresh Sides
- Fresh Veggies: Serve alongside sliced cucumbers and carrot sticks for a crunchy contrast.
- Chips and Dips: Offer tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole as tasty accompaniments.
For Meal Prep
- Individual Containers: Pack sliders in meal prep containers for convenient lunches throughout the week.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap before freezing for future meals.
How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
To create the perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor significantly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes add crunch and freshness to your sliders.
- Grill at the Right Temp: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat for even cooking of the chicken.
- Crispy Bacon Is Key: Cook bacon until it’s crispy; it adds texture and flavor that complements the chicken well.
- Layer Strategically: Start with mayo on the bun base to prevent sogginess from sauces.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste experience, serve sliders warm right after assembling.
Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Pairing sides with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement these flavorful sliders perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy side that provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds heartiness and balances the meal nicely.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and pairs well with barbecue flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a light, refreshing option that cleanses the palate.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a classic side that complements any barbecue dish beautifully.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a healthier alternative to regular fries, adding sweetness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland sliders. Always let your chicken soak in the barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees for juicy results.
- Ignoring Bun Quality: Using stale or low-quality buns affects texture and flavor. Choose fresh Hawaiian rolls for the best experience.
- Adding Ranch Too Early: Putting ranch dressing on too soon can make buns soggy. Add it just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
- Forgetting Toppings: Skimping on toppings like bacon or lettuce can reduce the overall taste. Load up your sliders for a satisfying bite.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped sliders for about 15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds per slider, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place sliders in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders:
What is the best way to prepare Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
The best way is by marinating the chicken, grilling it perfectly, and assembling with fresh toppings right before serving.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for added flavor.
How do I customize my sliders?
You can customize these sliders by adding extra toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or switching up the sauce according to your taste preferences.
Are Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders suitable for meal prep?
Yes! They are perfect for meal prep as they store well and can be reheated easily without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful treat that combines smoky flavors with creamy ranch goodness. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion—from summer cookouts to cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings and sauces!
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a mouthwatering addition to any summer gathering, combining the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with crispy bacon and creamy ranch dressing. These sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for cookouts, game days, or family dinners. With tender chicken marinated in barbecue sauce and topped with fresh ingredients, these handheld delights will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch that serves a hungry crowd. Get ready to savor every bite of these irresistible sliders!
Ingredients
- 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, sliced
- 12 squares Colby jack cheese
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook bacon in a skillet over low heat until crispy; set aside.
- Grill marinated chicken on medium heat for about 3 minutes per side, basting with additional barbecue sauce.
- Slice Hawaiian rolls horizontally and spread mayonnaise on the bottom buns.
- Assemble by adding grilled chicken, cheese slices, bacon, onions, lettuce, and ranch dressing.
- Place top buns on sliders and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
