Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Grilled BBQ Chicken is a summertime favorite, and these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are the perfect way to enjoy those smoky-sweet flavors. Ideal for cookouts, game days, or casual family dinners, they combine juicy chicken with crispy bacon, creamy ranch, and melty cheese. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to eat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of total time needed, these sliders are perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy indoor meal, these sliders fit right in.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients for personalized flavors.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders efficiently, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skillet
- Zip-top bag or bowl
- Paper towels
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides that delicious charred flavor which is key for BBQ chicken.
- Skillet: Ideal for perfectly cooking the bacon until crispy without burning it.
- Zip-top bag or bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly in 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 Sauce and 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 the 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. Once done, rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Prepare your grill to medium heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 3 minutes per side. Baste with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce while cooking. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns
Slice the Hawaiian buns horizontally to create sandwich bases. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom buns before adding the grilled chicken and a little extra barbecue sauce.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sliders
Top each piece of chicken with Colby jack cheese followed by crispy bacon, sliced red onions, and shredded lettuce. Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce. If prepping ahead of time, add ranch just before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Place the top buns on each slider. Cut them into individual servings and enjoy your delicious Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders!
How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders make for an excellent party dish or a casual family meal. Here are some delightful ways to serve them, ensuring everyone enjoys this tasty treat.
For Game Day Gatherings
- With Chips – Pair sliders with a variety of chips for a crunchy contrast.
- Veggie Platter – Serve alongside fresh veggies and dip for a refreshing side.
At Summer Cookouts
- Potato Salad – A classic pairing that complements the smoky flavors of the sliders.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a seasonal touch that guests will love.
Quick Weeknight Dinner
- With Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy fries add a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides balance to the rich flavors of the sliders.
How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
For the ultimate Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, consider these simple tips. They will elevate your sliders from good to great!
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality barbecue sauce for the best flavor.
- Grill at Medium Heat – Cooking at the right temperature ensures juicy chicken without burning it.
- Let Chicken Rest – Allowing the grilled chicken to rest before slicing keeps it moist.
- Customize Toppings – Feel free to add jalapeños or avocado for an extra kick.
- Wrap in Foil for Later – If prepping in advance, wrap assembled sliders in foil until serving time to retain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Pairing your sliders with delicious sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that work well with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.
- Macaroni Salad – Creamy and comforting, this dish is always a favorite at gatherings.
- Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a sweet complement.
- Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans add depth to your meal, making it more satisfying.
- Grilled Vegetables – Colorful veggies can be grilled alongside the chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
- Onion Rings – Crispy onion rings deliver an irresistible crunch that pairs perfectly with sliders.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture of your sliders.
- Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes for a juicy result.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long will make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees internally.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap BBQ sauce or bacon can compromise flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients to enhance your sliders.
- Neglecting the Assembly Order: Adding toppings in the wrong order can make your sliders messy. Layer ingredients thoughtfully for better structure and taste.
- Forgetting About Prep Time: Underestimating prep time can delay serving. Plan accordingly so everything is ready when your sliders are done.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Place assembled sliders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
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 seconds to 1 minute, checking regularly.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a few drops of water, cover with a lid, and steam for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I customize my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
You can customize these sliders by adding different cheeses or using spicy barbecue sauce for extra heat.
Can I use other types of buns?
Yes! Feel free to use any type of bun you prefer, such as slider rolls or whole grain options.
What can I serve with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
These sliders pair well with coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
Are Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They are perfect for meal prep and can be stored easily in the fridge or freezer.
How long does it take to prepare Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
The total time from prep to cooking is about 30 minutes, making them a quick and easy option.
Final Thoughts
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these sliders fit the bill. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces for added flair!
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer cookouts, game days, or casual family dinners. These sliders marry smoky grilled chicken with crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and gooey Colby jack cheese—all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up these delicious mini sandwiches that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving a tasty weeknight meal, these sliders are easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying feast!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 8 slices of bacon
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- Colby jack cheese
- shredded lettuce
- red onion
Instructions
- 1. Marinate chicken in 1 cup of barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- 2. Cook bacon in a skillet over low heat until crispy; set aside on paper towels.
- 3. Grill marinated chicken over medium heat for about 3 minutes per side, basting with remaining barbecue sauce until cooked through (165°F).
- 4. Slice Hawaiian rolls and spread mayonnaise on the bottoms.
- 5. Assemble sliders with grilled chicken, bacon, cheese, red onion, lettuce, and drizzle with ranch.
- 6. Place tops on sliders and serve.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
