These Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders are mini sandwiches piled high with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for parties or a tasty snack at home!
Honestly, who can resist a slider? I like to serve them with some fresh veggies on the side. It makes me feel a bit healthier—at least until I grab another slider! 😂
Making these sliders is super easy! Just mix, stack, and bake them. It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy your favorite flavors. You’ll have everyone asking for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Cooked chicken adds protein and moisture to the sliders. Rotisserie chicken is a quick option. You can also use turkey for a lighter version or canned chicken if you’re in a hurry.
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives a smoky flavor. You can swap it for turkey bacon for a healthier choice or leave it out for a vegetarian spin. Smoked paprika can add a nice smokiness if you skip the bacon.
Ranch Dressing: This is key for creaminess and flavor. If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt mixed with your favorite herbs. For dairy-free, try a vegan ranch dressing.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a wonderful tang. Mild cheddar or Monterey Jack could work if you prefer something less bold. Vegan cheese can replace dairy cheese if needed.
Slider Rolls: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness. You can choose whole wheat rolls for a healthier option or pretzel buns for a unique twist!
How Do I Get a Golden and Crispy Top on My Sliders?
Achieving that delicious golden crust is all about not rushing the baking process! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by covering the sliders with foil to keep moisture in while heating through.
- After 15-20 minutes, remove the foil to let the heat crisp up the top. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- The butter mixture with garlic and onion powder adds flavor and helps achieve that beautiful color.
Don’t skip brushing the tops with the butter mix—it’s a game changer for taste and texture! Enjoy your flavorful sliders!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 slider rolls (such as Hawaiian rolls)
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and assemble the sliders. Then, allow 25-30 minutes for baking. Total time should be around 40 minutes before you’re ready to enjoy these delicious sliders!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and warm for baking your sliders.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything until it’s well combined and all the ingredients are coated in ranch dressing.
3. Slice the Slider Rolls:
Carefully slice the slider rolls in half horizontally. Make sure to keep them connected in one piece at the back. This will make it easier to assemble and serve later!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Place the bottom halves of the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, evenly spread the chicken and bacon mixture over these bottom halves. Top it off with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Finish Assembling:
Now, place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese and chicken mixture to complete your sliders.
6. Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it well, and then brush this delicious mixture over the tops of the slider rolls. This will give them a tasty flavor and a golden color!
7. Bake:
Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to get the tops nice and crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the sliders cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Then, slice them into individual sliders and serve warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds delicious flavor. Just shred about 2 cups of the meat, discarding the skin and bones, and mix it with the other ingredients. It will save you time and still taste fantastic!
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! If you’re out of ranch dressing, you can make a quick substitute by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, and a bit of ranch seasoning (if you have it). About 3/4 cup of mayonnaise mixed with 1/4 cup sour cream works well. Feel free to add herbs like dill or parsley to mimic that ranch flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will keep them from getting too soggy!
Can I Freeze These Sliders?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked sliders before adding the butter and spices on top. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then follow the original baking instructions. Perfect for a quick meal later on!
