Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken sliders are the perfect summer treat, and our Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders take that classic flavor to the next level. These sliders are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them an ideal option for picnics, parties, or a casual dinner. With crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and savory barbecue sauce packed between soft Hawaiian rolls, these sliders will be a hit at any gathering!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sliders
• How to Make Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Bacon
• Step 3: Grill the Chicken
• Step 4: Prepare the Buns
• Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
• Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
• How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
• Classic Serving Style
• Fresh Additions
• Creative Twists
• Healthy Pairings
• How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
• Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
• Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I make Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders healthier?
• Can I use other types of buns?
• What is the best barbecue sauce for these sliders?
• Can I prepare these sliders in advance?
• How do I customize my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: This recipe is quick to make, with only 30 minutes needed from start to finish.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoky BBQ chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch dressing offers a mouthwatering experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer cookout, a game day snack, or a weeknight dinner, these sliders fit right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings in one batch, they’re great for sharing with friends and family.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious sliders.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skillet
• Zip-top bag or bowl
• Measuring cups
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor in the chicken while giving it those beautiful grill marks.
• Skillet: Perfect for cooking bacon evenly until crispy; it allows for better control over the heat.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken; it ensures even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 4-inch pieces
• 2 cups barbecue sauce, divided

For the Sliders

• 1 pack Hawaiian rolls, 12 count
• 8 slices bacon
• 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

• Place the chicken pieces in a zip-top bag or bowl.
• Pour in 1 cup of barbecue sauce and seal the bag or cover the bowl.
• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally 4 hours or overnight).

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

• Heat a skillet over low heat.
• Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, turning occasionally.
• Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

• Preheat your grill to medium heat.
• Remove chicken from marinade and place on the grill.
• Cook for about 3 minutes per side while basting with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Prepare the Buns

• Slice Hawaiian rolls horizontally to create sandwich bottoms.
• Spread mayonnaise on each bottom bun.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

• Place grilled chicken on top of mayonnaise-covered buns.
• Drizzle some extra barbecue sauce over each piece of chicken.
• Layer on Colby jack cheese followed by crispy bacon, red onions, and shredded lettuce. Drizzle ranch dressing on top of lettuce.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

• Place top buns on each slider and slice them into individual portions.
• Serve immediately or store without ranch dressing if preparing in advance.

Enjoy your tasty Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders at your next gathering!

How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering or a casual weeknight dinner. They are easy to customize and serve, ensuring everyone can enjoy their sliders just the way they like them.

Classic Serving Style

• With Extra BBQ Sauce: Serve the sliders with a small bowl of barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
• Mini Slider Stands: Use small stands to display the sliders for parties, making them easy to grab.

Fresh Additions

• Pickles: Offer sliced pickles on the side for that added crunch and tang.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who like a kick, sliced jalapeños can be served alongside.

Creative Twists

• Buffalo Sauce Drizzle: Add a drizzle of buffalo sauce on top before serving for a spicy twist.
• Sriracha Ranch: Mix sriracha into the ranch dressing for those who love heat.

Healthy Pairings

• Fresh Veggies: Serve with a platter of fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for a healthy crunch.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad pairs well, offering a sweet balance to the savory sliders.

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How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

To achieve the best Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your sliders are both delicious and visually appealing.

• Marinate Well: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours. This allows flavors to penetrate and results in juicier chicken.
• Cook to Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 165 degrees internally. This guarantees safe and perfectly cooked meat.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality bacon and fresh vegetables can elevate the overall flavor of your sliders significantly.
• Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the Hawaiian rolls before assembling. This adds texture and prevents sogginess from sauces.
• Layer Thoughtfully: Arrange ingredients thoughtfully; placing lettuce directly under the chicken keeps it crisp longer.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve sliders right after assembly while everything is warm and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

These sliders pair wonderfully with various sides that complement their rich flavors. Here’s a list of side dishes that make great accompaniments.

1. Coleslaw: A classic side that adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the savory sliders.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is perfect for summer cookouts alongside your sliders.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings comfort food vibes that match well with BBQ flavors.
4. Chips and Salsa: A crunchy option with zesty salsa provides a fun snack element at gatherings.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans add depth and heartiness, enhancing your meal’s flavor profile.
6. Fruit Kabobs: Skewered fresh fruit offers a refreshing contrast to rich meats, making them an ideal side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders to the next level.

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; longer marination yields better results.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on cooking time. Overcooked chicken becomes dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients can ruin your sliders. Always opt for fresh lettuce and quality barbecue sauce for best taste.
• Adding Ranch Too Early: If you’re prepping ahead, wait to add ranch dressing until just before serving. This keeps the lettuce crisp and prevents sogginess.
• Ignoring Cheese Meltage: For perfectly melted cheese, cover your grill or skillet with a lid briefly after adding cheese on top of the chicken. This helps it melt thoroughly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer bag or airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture, for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.

How can I make Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders healthier?

You can use grilled chicken breast without skin and opt for light ranch dressing. Adding more veggies also boosts nutrition.

Can I use other types of buns?

Yes! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you can substitute with whole grain or slider-sized ciabatta rolls for a different twist.

What is the best barbecue sauce for these sliders?

Choosing a barbecue sauce depends on your taste preference. A smoky sauce complements the bacon well, while a sweet sauce adds a nice contrast.

Can I prepare these sliders in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders minus the ranch dressing and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I customize my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Feel free to add toppings like jalapeños, pickles, or avocado slices for extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

These Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, they can be customized with your favorite toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy its comforting flavors!