Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken is a summertime classic, and Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders take this dish to a whole new level. These sliders are perfect for cookouts, game days, or casual family dinners. With smoky sweet flavors combined with creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables, these sliders offer a delightful balance of taste and texture. They are easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon creates an explosion of flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these sliders as appetizers at a party or as the main course; they fit all occasions perfectly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these handheld delights, making them ideal for family meals.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs—substitute chicken with turkey or use gluten-free rolls.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, gather your essential tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly while adding that beloved smoky flavor.
• Skillet: Perfect for frying bacon until it reaches the desired crispiness.
• Knife: A good knife makes slicing the buns and vegetables quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without damaging your countertops.

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

Marinating is key for flavorful chicken.
1. In a zip-top bag or bowl, combine chicken pieces 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

While the chicken marinates, prepare the bacon.
1. In a skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crispy.
2. Once cooked, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Now it’s time to cook that marinated chicken!
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Grill each piece of chicken for about 3 minutes per side.
3. Baste with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce while grilling until fully cooked (165 degrees internally).

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Let’s put these sliders together!
1. Slice Hawaiian buns horizontally so they can hold all those delicious fillings.
2. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun halves.
3. Add grilled chicken pieces followed by extra barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Top off those sliders with all your favorites!
1. Place Colby jack cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
2. Layer crispy bacon, sliced red onions, and shredded lettuce on top of cheese.
3. Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce (add just before serving if prepping ahead).

Step 6: Finish Up

Wrap it all up!
1. Place top buns onto each slider sandwich.
2. Slice into individual sliders and serve immediately!

Enjoy your flavorful Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders!

How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful addition to any gathering. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these sliders can be served in various ways to please your guests.

Casual Party Style

• Buffet Setup: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for self-serving. This encourages guests to customize their toppings.
• Slider Bar: Set up a slider bar with extra toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or different sauces, allowing everyone to create their perfect bite.

Game Day Treats

• Finger Food: Serve the sliders alongside toothpicks for easy handling. Perfect for snacking during the game!
• Themed Plates: Use plates that match the team colors for added flair and excitement during the event.

Picnic Delight

• Packable Option: Wrap each slider individually in parchment paper for a portable meal that’s great for outdoor activities.
• Cooler Friendly: Pair these sliders with chilled drinks in your cooler for a refreshing summer picnic.

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How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Creating perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Marinade: Let the chicken marinate longer than suggested for deeper flavor absorption.
• Crispy Bacon: Cook bacon until very crispy; it adds texture that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lettuce and onions for crunch and brightness in every bite.
• Grill Marks: Ensure your grill is hot enough before cooking the chicken to achieve beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Pairing side dishes with your sliders can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the savory flavors of the sliders.
2. Potato Chips: Simple and classic, potato chips offer a satisfying crunch that complements the sliders perfectly.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is sweet and smoky, making it an ideal pairing.
4. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans provide a rich flavor contrast while being a traditional barbecue side.
5. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette refreshes your palate between bites of rich sliders.
6. Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits brings sweetness and brightness, making it a refreshing side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect sliders every time.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Ensure you allow at least 30 minutes, but longer is better for juicy chicken.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
• Using stale rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls make all the difference. Always check for freshness before assembling your sliders.
• Not layering ingredients properly: Proper layering enhances flavor and texture. Start with mayo, then chicken, followed by cheese, bacon, and toppings for the best bite.
• Adding ranch too early: If prepping ahead, add ranch dressing just before serving. This keeps your sliders from getting soggy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 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 oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap sliders in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add sliders, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders that may help you.

Can I use different types of cheese in my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Yes! Feel free to swap Colby jack cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for extra flavor.

How do I make these sliders healthier?

You can use grilled chicken breast without the skin and opt for low-fat mayonnaise and ranch dressing.

Can I prepare Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and cook it a day in advance. Assemble the sliders just before serving.

What side dishes pair well with these sliders?

These delicious sliders go great with coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their smoky flavors combined with crispy bacon and fresh toppings create an unforgettable meal. Feel free to customize these sliders with your favorite ingredients or sauces to suit your taste!