Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Grilled barbecue chicken is a summer favorite, and these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders take it to the next level. Perfect for cookouts, picnics, or game days, these sliders combine smoky BBQ chicken with creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and fresh toppings. Their handheld size makes them fun and easy to serve at any gathering, ensuring everyone gets a taste of deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can whip up these sliders for any occasion.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Perfect for Any Event: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a backyard barbecue, these sliders are sure to please everyone.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: These sliders are not only tasty but also fun for kids to eat, making them an excellent choice for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this flavorful recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skillet
- Zip-top bag or bowl
- Paper towels
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A grill is essential for achieving that perfect smoky flavor on the chicken.
- Skillet: Use a skillet to cook bacon evenly until crispy without burning.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing ingredients like onions and chicken efficiently.
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 of barbecue sauce. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; ideally, let it marinate for 4 hours or overnight.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the chicken marinates, cook the bacon in a skillet over low heat until crispy. Transfer it to 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 while basting with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce as they cook. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns
Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally to create sandwich buns. Spread mayo on the bottom buns before adding grilled chicken and a little extra barbecue sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Top each piece of chicken with cheese, followed by crispy bacon, sliced red onions, and shredded lettuce. Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce. If you’re prepping these sliders ahead of time, add ranch dressing just before serving.
Step 6: Serve
Place the top buns on each slider, slice them into individual portions if desired, and serve immediately! Enjoy your delicious Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders!
How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Serving Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is all about enhancing their delicious flavors and making the meal enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve these sliders for any occasion.
Casual Family Dinner
- Pair with homemade potato wedges for a comforting side.
- Serve with a fresh garden salad to add a healthy crunch.
Game Day Treat
- Create a slider platter with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, and honey mustard.
- Offer a selection of chips or popcorn on the side for easy snacking.
Summer Barbecue
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful presentation.
- Add fruit skewers for a refreshing contrast to the savory sliders.
Picnic Ready
- Wrap sliders in parchment paper for easy transport.
- Include some pickles and olives in your picnic basket for variety.
Kid-Friendly Meal
- Cut sliders into smaller bites for little hands.
- Serve with carrot sticks and celery for a crunchy side.
How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
To ensure your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are truly perfect, consider the following tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Marinate longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Grill at medium heat: This prevents the chicken from drying out while cooking.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce and onions elevate the taste and crunchiness of your sliders.
- Customize toppings: Feel free to add avocado or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Serve warm: Sliders are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, so serve immediately after assembling.
- Keep covered: If not serving right away, cover sliders with foil to keep them warm and moist.
Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Pairing side dishes with your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Coleslaw: A classic side that adds crunch and creaminess; it complements the sliders perfectly.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a hit at gatherings; make it ahead of time to let flavors meld.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is sweet and juicy, making it an ideal summer side dish.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a healthier alternative to regular fries while still being deliciously crispy.
- Baked Beans: A hearty addition that pairs well with barbecue flavors; opt for homemade or canned varieties as needed.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits helps cleanse the palate between bites of savory sliders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Not marinating long enough: Marination enhances flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate overnight.
- Overcooking chicken: Chicken can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer and cook until it reaches 165°F internally.
- Skipping the bacon crisping step: Crispy bacon adds great texture. Cook it slowly to achieve that perfect crispiness before adding it to your sliders.
- Using stale rolls: Freshness matters! Always use soft, fresh Hawaiian rolls for the best taste and texture in your sliders.
- Adding ranch too early: If prepping in advance, wait to add ranch dressing until just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, label containers with the date.
Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and wrap sliders in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 30-60 seconds, checking every 30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add sliders and cover, cooking for a few minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to swap Colby jack with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
How do I customize my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
You can add toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or even switch out the ranch dressing for blue cheese!
Are these sliders suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These sliders are great for meal prep; just store components separately until ready to eat.
How can I make these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders healthier?
Consider using grilled chicken breast without skin and low-fat or homemade ranch dressing.
Final Thoughts
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various toppings or sauces. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, these sliders are sure to impress. Give them a try!
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 sliders 1x
Description
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate summer treat that combines smoky grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing all nestled within soft Hawaiian rolls. These mouthwatering sliders are perfect for barbecues, picnics, or game day gatherings. With their handheld size and burst of flavors, they are sure to be a hit among friends and family alike. The best part? They can be whipped up in just 30 minutes! Customize your sliders with fresh toppings and serve them warm for an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 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
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in 1 cup of 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 remaining barbecue sauce.
- Slice Hawaiian rolls horizontally and spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves.
- Assemble sliders by placing grilled chicken, cheese, bacon, onions, and lettuce on the rolls; drizzle with ranch dressing.
- Place tops on sliders, slice if desired, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (90g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 754mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 63mg
