Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Grilled barbecue chicken is a fantastic summertime staple, and these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders take it to a whole new level. Perfect for cookouts, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, these sliders combine juicy chicken with the rich flavors of ranch, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese. They are easy to prepare and will surely become a crowd favorite at any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon creates an irresistible taste that’s hard to beat.
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes total time, you can whip up these sliders in no time—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them at parties, barbecues, or as a fun family dinner. They fit any occasion!
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love these sliders, making them an excellent choice for gatherings.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These sliders are great for meal prep. Make them ahead of time and enjoy later in the week!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delicious details of this recipe, let’s look at the essential tools you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skillet
- Zip-top bag or bowl
- Paper towel
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A grill is essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect char on the chicken.
- Skillet: Use a skillet to cook the bacon evenly until it’s crispy; this helps enhance the dish’s overall texture.
- Knife & Cutting Board: A sharp knife and cutting board are crucial for safely preparing your ingredients.
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
- 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
- In a zip-top bag or bowl, marinate the chicken with 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally 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.
- Place cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken for about 3 minutes per side, basting with another 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce during grilling.
- Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
- Slice Hawaiian buns horizontally to create sandwich halves.
- Spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves of the buns.
- Add grilled chicken pieces on top of the mayo and drizzle with extra barbecue sauce.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Layer on Colby jack cheese squares over the chicken.
- Place crispy bacon strips on top, followed by sliced red onions and shredded lettuce.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce.
Step 6: Complete Your Sliders
- Place the top halves of the buns onto each slider.
- Slice each assembled sandwich into individual sliders and serve immediately!
Enjoy your delicious 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 gatherings, picnics, or a cozy family dinner. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your sliders.
For a Festive Gathering
- Add a Side of Chips: Crispy potato chips provide a crunchy contrast to the soft sliders.
- Serve with Pickles: Tangy pickles add brightness and balance the rich flavors of the sliders.
At a Backyard BBQ
- Include Grilled Veggies: Skewered zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms can complement your meal beautifully.
- Offer Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a classic touch to any barbecue spread.
For Game Day
- Pair with Nachos: Loaded nachos topped with cheese and jalapeños make for an exciting snack alongside the sliders.
- Provide Dips: Guacamole and salsa can be great accompaniments for dipping.
As Part of Meal Prep
- Pack in Lunchboxes: These sliders make a delicious lunch option; just keep them fresh in airtight containers.
- Offer Extra Sauces: Provide barbecue sauce or ranch dressing on the side for added flavor customization.
How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
To achieve delicious Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Grill at the Right Temperature: A medium heat grill ensures even cooking without burning.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and quality cheese elevate the flavor profile.
- Layer Carefully: Stack ingredients neatly to prevent sliders from toppling over when served.
- Wrap for Storage: If prepping ahead, tightly wrap sliders in foil to keep them moist until serving.
- Customize Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like avocado or jalapeños for varied flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Complete your meal with delicious side dishes that pair well with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders. Here are some tasty options:
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess that complements the sliders well.
- Potato Salad: A classic potato salad offers a hearty side that everyone loves at gatherings.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the sliders.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light and healthy contrast to richer foods.
- Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans enhance the barbecue theme while being filling and satisfying.
- Deviled Eggs: These bite-sized delights are easy to prepare and pair nicely with sandwiches.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a vibrant salad that brightens your plate.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful twist on traditional sides that pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them for the best results.
- Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it reaches 165 degrees. Overcooking can result in dry sliders, so use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Not Crispy Bacon: Soggy bacon can ruin your sliders. Ensure you cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to your sliders.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted lettuce or old onions can affect taste and presentation. Always use fresh produce for the best flavor and crunch.
- Adding Ranch Too Early: If preparing in advance, add ranch dressing just before serving. Adding it too early can make the sliders soggy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze them for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders that might help you with your cooking experience.
What are Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are small sandwiches made with grilled chicken marinated in barbecue sauce, topped with crispy bacon, ranch dressing, cheese, and fresh veggies.
Can I customize my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Absolutely! Feel free to add avocado, jalapeños, or different cheeses according to your taste preferences.
How do I make these sliders healthier?
You can use grilled chicken breast without skin and opt for whole-grain rolls. Additionally, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and cook it beforehand. Assemble the sliders just before serving for optimal freshness.
What should I serve with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
These sliders pair well with coleslaw, potato chips, or a refreshing salad. They make great additions to any summer gathering!
Final Thoughts
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can easily customize them with different toppings or sauces. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering; your guests will love these flavorful bites!
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 sliders 1x
Description
Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. These sliders feature juicy grilled chicken marinated in rich barbecue sauce, topped with crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and melty Colby jack cheese, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. With a preparation time of just 30 minutes and a burst of flavors in every bite, these mini sandwiches are not only easy to make but also customizable to suit any palate. Serve them at your next cookout or family meal, and watch as they disappear!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 8 slices bacon
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
- 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 chicken in 1 cup of barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy; set aside on paper towels.
- Grill marinated chicken over medium heat for about 3 minutes per side, basting with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce until cooked through.
- Slice Hawaiian rolls horizontally; spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves.
- Layer grilled chicken, extra barbecue sauce, cheese squares, crispy bacon, red onions, shredded lettuce, and ranch dressing.
- Place the top halves of the rolls on each slider and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
