Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken sliders are a delightful option for any gathering. These Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders combine smoky flavors with crispy bacon and creamy ranch dressing, making them perfect for summer cookouts, game days, or casual family dinners. Their handheld size adds to their appeal, allowing for easy serving and enjoyment at any occasion.

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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: Assemble the Sliders
• Step 5: Add Toppings
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
• For a Family Gathering
• At a Summer BBQ
• For Game Day
• As Party Appetizers
• 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
• Can I use different meat for these sliders?
• What toppings work well with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
• How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
• Are Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, these sliders are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Crowd Pleaser: These sliders can serve up to 12 people, making them ideal for parties or family meals.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
• Make Ahead Option: You can marinate the chicken in advance, saving time on the day you plan to serve them.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials before you start making your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that delicious smoky flavor while cooking the chicken evenly.
• Skillet: Great for frying bacon until it’s perfectly crispy.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken and ensuring even coating with barbecue sauce.

Ingredients

For these delicious Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you will need:

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. Marinate chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl with 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; ideally, marinate for 4 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. While the chicken is marinating, cook the bacon in a skillet over low heat until crispy.
2. Rest the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Prepare your grill to medium heat.
2. Cook the marinated chicken pieces about 3 minutes per side.
3. Baste with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce as they cook.
4. Ensure that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice the Hawaiian buns horizontally for sandwiches.
2. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom buns.
3. Add grilled chicken to each bun and top with a little extra barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Place a square of Colby jack cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
2. Layer with crispy bacon, sliced red onions, and shredded lettuce.
3. Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce.

Step 6: Serve

1. Place the top buns on each slider.
2. Slice into individual sliders and serve immediately!

These Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are sure to impress your guests while providing an easy-to-make option that everyone will love! Enjoy!

How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering or casual meal. These sliders are not only delicious but also versatile, making them easy to pair with various sides and drinks.

For a Family Gathering

• Family-style platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for a fun sharing experience.
• DIY slider bar: Set out toppings like extra cheese, pickles, and different sauces for guests to customize their sliders.

At a Summer BBQ

• Grilled corn on the cob: The sweet corn complements the smoky flavors of the sliders.
• Potato salad: A creamy potato salad adds a classic touch that pairs well with barbecue flavors.

For Game Day

• Chips and dip: Serve tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole as a crunchy side.
• Veggie tray: Fresh veggies with ranch dip provide a light option alongside these hearty sliders.

As Party Appetizers

• Mini slider skewers: Stack the sliders on wooden skewers for easy grabbing during parties.
• Buffalo chicken dip: Offer this spicy dip as an additional appetizer that guests can enjoy while waiting for the main dish.

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How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Perfecting your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is all about attention to detail. With these simple tips, you can elevate your sliders to the next level.

• Marinate longer: Letting your chicken marinate overnight deepens the flavor and makes it juicier.
• Grill over medium heat: Cooking at this temperature ensures even cooking without burning the outside.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce and onions will enhance the crunch and flavor of your sliders.
• Customize sauces: Experiment with different barbecue sauces or add hot sauce for extra kick.
• Warm the buns: Lightly toasting the Hawaiian rolls adds texture and makes them even more delicious.
• Serve immediately: These sliders taste best fresh off the grill, so serve them right away for maximum enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Pairing sides with your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders.
2. Sweet potato fries: These provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of BBQ chicken.
3. Cornbread muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is a fantastic complement to barbecue dishes.
4. Baked beans: Smoky baked beans bring additional depth and heartiness to your meal.
5. Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light option that contrasts well with heavier dishes.
6. Macaroni salad: Creamy macaroni salad is a classic choice that pairs perfectly with grilled foods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland sliders. Always allow enough time for the flavors to infuse.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale buns or wilted lettuce can ruin your sliders. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture.
• Ignoring the Assembly Order: Layering ingredients incorrectly can make sliders messy. Follow the recommended order for easy handling and eating.
• Making Them Too Early: Preparing sliders in advance without proper storage can lead to sogginess. Assemble them just before serving or store components separately.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat wrapped sliders for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 30-45 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders to help you out.

Can I use different meat for these sliders?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even pulled pork if desired, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What toppings work well with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Feel free to customize with toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or different cheeses based on your preferences!

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

Marinating your chicken and not overcooking it are key steps in keeping your chicken juicy and flavorful.

Are Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These sliders store well and make a convenient meal prep option for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love. They’re perfect for summer cookouts or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or sauces to make them uniquely yours!