Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are the perfect treat for any occasion. These sliders combine smoky, sweet barbecue chicken with crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh veggies all nestled in a soft Hawaiian roll. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or need a quick weeknight meal, these sliders are sure to please everyone at the table. Their handheld size makes them easy to serve and enjoy, while the rich flavors offer a delightful experience that stands out.

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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 Your Sliders
• How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
• Pairing with Drinks
• Garnishes and Extras
• Serving Style
• 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 other meats for these sliders?
• How do I make these sliders healthier?
• What can I serve with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
• Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious sliders ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or gatherings, these sliders are always a hit with guests of all ages.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a main dish or appetizer; they fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Easy Cleanup: Minimal cooking tools required mean less hassle when it’s time to clean up.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skillet
• Zip-top bag or bowl
• Cooking thermometer
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken and enhancing its smoky flavor.
• Skillet: Great for cooking bacon evenly until crispy without burning it.
• Cooking thermometer: Ensures your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat at 165 degrees.

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

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 sit for 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the chicken is marinating, cook the bacon:
1. Place bacon in a skillet over low heat.
2. Cook until crispy.
3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Prepare your grill to medium heat:
1. Remove chicken from marinade and place on the grill.
2. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, basting with an additional ½ cup of barbecue sauce as they cook.
3. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Slice the Hawaiian buns horizontally:
1. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
2. Add grilled chicken pieces followed by a little extra barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Top each slider with:
1. A square of Colby jack cheese.
2. Crispy bacon slices.
3. Sliced red onions and shredded lettuce.
4. Drizzle ranch dressing over the top of the lettuce.

Tip: If preparing these sliders ahead of time, add ranch dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.

Step 6: Serve Your Sliders

Place the top bun on each slider:
1. Slice them into individual servings.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not just tasty; they’re also easy to make and perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Serving Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is all about creating a delicious and satisfying experience for your guests. These sliders are versatile and can be paired with various sides and drinks to elevate your meal.

Pairing with Drinks

• Iced Tea: A refreshing option that balances the smoky flavors of the sliders.
• Lemonade: The tartness complements the sweetness of the barbecue sauce nicely.
• Craft Beer: Choose a light lager or a pale ale for a perfect pairing.

Garnishes and Extras

• Pickles: Add a crunchy, tangy element that cuts through the richness of the bacon and cheese.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides texture and additional flavor, enhancing each bite.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy spice, a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the sliders.

Serving Style

• Buffet Style: Lay out all ingredients so guests can build their own sliders, customizing to their taste.
• Platter Presentation: Assemble sliders on a platter for an eye-catching centerpiece at your gathering.

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How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Perfecting your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders will ensure they are always a hit. Here are some tips to make them even better.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce enhances flavor. Opt for crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes for topping.
• Marinate Longer: Allowing chicken to marinate overnight deepens the flavor profile significantly.
• Grill with Care: Monitor the grill temperature closely to prevent drying out the chicken; aim for medium heat.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like avocado or jalapeños for added flavor.
• Serve Warm: Enjoy these sliders warm right off the grill for the best texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Complement your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders with delightful side dishes that enhance your meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic choice that pairs perfectly with sliders. Serve them with dipping sauces.
2. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad brings comfort and balance, making it an ideal summer side.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and crunch, making it a great seasonal side dish.
4. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to rich sliders.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty side that complements barbecue flavors beautifully.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with zesty salsa make for a fun snack alongside your sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating chicken for less than 30 minutes can lead to bland sliders. Aim for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees internally.
• Skipping the bacon crisping step: Under-cooked bacon can ruin your sliders. Always cook bacon until it’s crispy for the best texture and flavor.
• Using stale rolls: Old Hawaiian rolls won’t hold up well. Make sure to use fresh rolls for a delightful slider experience.
• Adding ranch too early: Adding ranch dressing too soon can make the lettuce soggy. Wait until just before serving to drizzle it on.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped sliders for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat sliders individually on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm sliders in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders. Here are some common queries.

Can I use other meats for these sliders?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, pulled pork, or even grilled veggies for a delicious twist.

How do I make these sliders healthier?

To make them healthier, consider using leaner cuts of meat or swapping out regular mayonnaise and ranch dressing for lighter versions.

What can I serve with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair wonderfully with coleslaw, potato salad, or even corn on the cob during summer gatherings!

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and cook everything ahead of time. Just assemble right before serving to keep rolls fresh.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces, making them perfect for any gathering. Be sure to give them a try!