These Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders are little buns packed with flavor! Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch come together for a tasty bite that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, who can say no to bacon? Plus, these sliders are super easy to make—perfect for game day or a fun lunch. I love serving them with some crunchy veggies on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Rolls: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their slight sweetness. If you can’t find them, any soft rolls will work, like brioche, potato, or homemade slider rolls.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to. It saves time and adds flavor. You can also use leftover chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a nice crunch. Turkey bacon is a lighter option, or you can use cooked sausage for a different twist. Crumbled crispy tempeh is also a good choice for a vegetarian version.
Ranch Dressing: The classic choice! If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs can act as a tasty substitute. You can also try a vinaigrette for a tangy change.
Cheddar Cheese: I usually go for sharp cheddar for extra flavor. If you’re in the mood for something different, pepper jack adds a nice kick. You can also use a dairy-free cheese option if needed.
How Can You Make the Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders?
This recipe is all about layering flavors. Start by mixing the chicken, bacon, ranch dressing, and half of the cheese until it’s nice and combined. Don’t be shy about mixing well—this ensures each bite is packed with flavor!
- Use a greased baking dish and layer the bottom half of the rolls before spreading the chicken mix evenly over them.
- Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining cheese on top! This makes for a melty, cheesy layer that everyone loves.
- When brushing the butter mixture over the top, be generous—it gives that golden, crispy finish.
- Cover with foil for the first part of baking to keep moisture in. Remove the foil towards the end to crisp up the tops.
Let the sliders cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps everything settle and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your sliders warm! They’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider rolls (e.g., Hawaiian or homemade)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (or sliced)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to bake, for a total of about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure that your sliders bake evenly and become nice and crispy!
2. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, ranch dressing, and half of the cheddar cheese. Use a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. This will be the flavorful filling for your sliders.
3. Prepare the Slider Rolls:
Carefully cut the slider rolls in half horizontally, making sure to keep them attached. Next, place the bottom half of the rolls into a greased baking dish. This will be the base for your delicious sliders!
4. Add the Filling:
Spread the chicken and bacon mixture evenly over the bottom half of the slider rolls. Make sure to cover it completely for every bite to be tasty!
5. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the chicken and bacon mixture. You want to have a cheesy topping for those yummy sliders!
6. Place the Top Half of the Rolls:
Now, place the top half of the slider rolls over the cheese layer. This will create a delightful sandwich effect.
7. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the top of the slider rolls to add flavor and help them get golden and crispy in the oven!
8. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the tops of the sliders are golden and crispy.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the sliders cool for a few minutes. Then slice them into individual sliders and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, you can use turkey or ham in place of chicken, or even a mix of meats. Just ensure any meat you choose is cooked before adding it to the mixture.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you’re out of ranch dressing, you can use a homemade version with mayonnaise, sour cream, and some herbs like dill and chives for flavor. Alternatively, a creamy Italian dressing works great as a substitute!
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the sliders up to step 7, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a little extra time to the baking instructions since they’ll be starting from a colder temperature.
How to Store Leftover Sliders?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or you can microwave them for a quicker option, though the oven keeps them crispier!
