Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled chicken is perfect for summer, but when it transforms into Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it becomes a whole new experience! These sliders are not just delicious; they are versatile enough for picnics, cookouts, or even casual weeknight dinners. Each bite brings together smoky barbecue chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing for an unforgettable flavor profile that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon ensures every bite is bursting with taste.
• Super Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these sliders can be ready in just 30 minutes!
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a game night, these sliders are sure to please any crowd.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Perfectly Portable: These handheld sliders make them easy to serve at gatherings or enjoy on the go.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious sliders, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skillet
• Zip-top bag or bowl
• Paper towels
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor in your BBQ chicken while ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for cooking bacon until crispy without splattering too much grease.
• Knife: A good knife makes slicing ingredients like onions and chicken quick and effortless.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping and prepping your ingredients.

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

1. In a zip-top bag or bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
2. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (for best results, marinate for 4 hours or overnight).

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy.
2. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Grill each piece of marinated chicken for about 3 minutes per side.
3. Baste with an additional ½ cup of barbecue sauce while grilling. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice the Hawaiian buns horizontally to create sandwich bases.
2. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
3. Place grilled chicken on top of the mayo-covered buns and drizzle with extra barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Layer Colby jack cheese over the chicken.
2. Top with crispy bacon slices, red onions, shredded lettuce, and drizzle ranch dressing over everything.
3. If preparing ahead of time, add ranch dressing just before serving.

Step 6: Serve Your Sliders

1. Place the top half of each bun on top of the assembled sliders.
2. Slice into individual sliders and serve immediately!

Enjoy these delightful 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 or casual meals. These sliders can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Casual Gathering

• Family Style: Place all sliders on a large platter and let everyone serve themselves. It encourages sharing and conversation.
• Buffet Line: Set up a buffet with the sliders and sides so guests can customize their plates with toppings and sauces.

Game Day Treat

• Finger Food: Serve these sliders as easy finger foods during game day. They are portable and mess-free.
• Mini Sandwich Platter: Arrange the sliders on a tray surrounded by chips or veggies, making it a festive snack option.

Picnic Perfect

• Packable Snacks: Wrap each slider in parchment paper for easy transport to picnics or outdoor events. They stay fresh and easy to eat!
• Pair with Drinks: Offer refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade alongside sliders for a complete picnic experience.

Kid-Friendly Lunch

• Lunchbox Friendly: Cut the sliders in half for smaller portions, making them ideal for kids’ lunches.
• Fun Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar where kids can add their favorite ingredients like extra cheese or pickles.

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How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

To make sure your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: For more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the barbecue sauce to penetrate deeper.
• Crispy Bacon: Cook bacon slowly to achieve maximum crispiness. This adds texture to your sliders.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lettuce and onions for crunch. Fresh ingredients elevate the overall taste of the sliders.
• Grill Timing: Ensure your grill is at medium heat before cooking chicken. This prevents burning while ensuring it cooks through evenly.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve sliders right after assembling them while they’re warm.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders pair well with a variety of side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Potato Salad: A classic side that adds creaminess and pairs well with barbecue flavors.
2. Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful touch of summer and is easy to prepare on the grill.
4. Chips & Dip: Serve tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole for a fun, crunchy addition to your meal.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers sweetness and balances out the savory flavors of the sliders.
6. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans complement barbecue dishes perfectly with their sweet and smoky notes.
7. Vegetable Platter: Fresh cut veggies provide a healthy crunch alongside ranch dressing for dipping.
8. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is another classic that pairs well with any barbecue meal, adding richness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate your chicken can lead to bland sliders. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Not using fresh or high-quality ingredients can affect taste. Opt for fresh lettuce, quality bacon, and a good barbecue sauce for best results.
• Forgetting the Toppings: Skimping on toppings like ranch dressing or bacon will make your sliders less exciting. Be generous with these flavorful additions!
• Not Toasting the Buns: Serving un-toasted buns can lead to a soggy slider. Quickly toast them on the grill or in the oven for added texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake wrapped sliders for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat sliders on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, covering it with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders that might help you make the most of this recipe.

Can I use leftover chicken for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Yes! Leftover grilled chicken works great. Just shred it and mix with barbecue sauce before assembling your sliders.

How can I customize my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or different types of cheese to suit your taste!

What is the best barbecue sauce for these sliders?

Choose a barbecue sauce that matches your preference—sweet, spicy, or tangy. Homemade sauces can also offer unique flavors.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all components in advance and assemble them just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders offer a delightful mix of flavors that will satisfy any crowd. They’re easy to customize with different toppings and sauces, making them a versatile option for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the smoky sweetness combined with crispy bacon and creamy ranch!