Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled to perfection, these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful treat that brings smoky and sweet flavors right to your hands. Perfect for summer cookouts, game days, or casual gatherings, these sliders combine tender barbecue chicken with crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh veggies—all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. They are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making them a favorite for busy weeknights or festive occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and cool ranch dressing makes every bite irresistible.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are perfect for parties or family gatherings, satisfying both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust toppings based on your preferences; add jalapeños for spice or switch up the cheese.
• Easy Cleanup: Using one grill and minimal utensils means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skillet
• Zip-top bag or bowl
• Paper towels
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor essential for barbecue chicken. A good grill is key to achieving perfect cooking.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking bacon evenly until crispy. It helps render fat effectively while keeping the bacon flavorful.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Perfect for marinating chicken. It allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

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

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 overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Heat a skillet over low heat.
2. Cook the bacon slices until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Remove marinated chicken from the fridge and place it on the grill.
3. Cook each piece for about 3 minutes per side, basting with an additional ½ cup of barbecue sauce until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice Hawaiian rolls horizontally.
2. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each roll.
3. Place grilled chicken on top of mayo-covered buns, then drizzle with a little extra barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Layer on Colby jack cheese over the chicken.
2. Top with crispy bacon, sliced red onions, and shredded lettuce.
3. Drizzle ranch dressing over lettuce just before serving if prepping ahead of time.

Step 6: Serve

1. Place the top buns on each slider.
2. Cut into smaller portions if desired and serve immediately!

How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering or casual meal. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enjoy these delicious sliders.

For a Backyard Barbecue

• Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
• Pair with grilled corn on the cob for a classic summer taste.

As a Game Day Snack

• Set up a slider bar with assorted toppings like jalapeños and pickles.
• Provide plenty of napkins, as they can get messy but oh-so-good!

For a Family Dinner

• Arrange sliders on a large platter with colorful garnishes.
• Include a fresh salad on the side for balance and freshness.

For Meal Prep

• Pack sliders in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Keep ranch dressing separate until ready to eat for fresh flavor.

As Party Appetizers

• Cut sliders into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks.
• Offer toothpicks for easy serving and to hold everything together.

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How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Perfecting your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables will enhance the overall flavor.
• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight gives it more flavor and juiciness.
• Watch the grill temperature: Medium heat is key; too hot can dry out the chicken while too low may not cook it properly.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add avocado for creaminess!
• Serve immediately: Enjoy these sliders right after assembling them for the best texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Serving side dishes with your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that pair perfectly.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds freshness and complements the rich flavors of the sliders.
2. Potato Chips: Classic chips provide a satisfying crunch and are easy to serve alongside any slider meal.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrition while enhancing your barbecue theme.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a comforting side that balances savory flavors nicely.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory sliders.
6. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans deliver rich flavor and protein, making them an ideal companion for BBQ dishes.
7. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is always a favorite at gatherings, adding comfort food vibes to your meal.
8. Pickle Platter: A variety of pickles adds tangy crunch, allowing guests to customize their slider experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the Marination: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland sliders. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees for juicy results.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Not all bacon or barbecue sauce is created equal. Choose high-quality ingredients for better taste and texture.
• Skipping the Toppings: Neglecting toppings like fresh lettuce or ranch dressing can diminish flavor. Don’t skip these; they add essential crunch and creaminess.
• Assembling Too Early: Preparing sliders in advance without ranch dressing can make them soggy. Add dressing only right before serving for optimal freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sliders in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm sliders on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one slider at a time on medium power for 30-45 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.

How do I make Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders healthier?

You can use grilled chicken breast, whole grain rolls, and reduced-fat ranch dressing to create a lighter version without sacrificing taste.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Colby jack with cheddar, pepper jack, or any cheese you prefer.

Are Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These sliders are great for meal prep. Just store them separately from the toppings until you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair well with a simple salad, chips, or coleslaw for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering or weeknight dinner!