Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken is a summertime classic, and with these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you can enjoy all those smoky sweet flavors in a convenient handheld version. Perfect for cookouts, game days, or casual family dinners, these sliders combine tender chicken marinated in barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh veggies. They are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up these sliders quickly.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and bacon creates a deliciously satisfying taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy weeknight dinner, these sliders fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match toppings or use different sauces to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are great for feeding a group; everyone will love them!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly while adding that charred flavor we love.
• Skillet: Perfect for frying bacon until it’s crispy without burning.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Great for marinating chicken; it ensures the meat absorbs all the flavors.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Vital for slicing the onion and chicken properly to assemble the sliders.

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

For the Toppings

• 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 chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl with 1 cup of barbecue sauce. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally up to 4 hours) before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the chicken marinates, cook the bacon in a skillet over low heat until crispy. Once done, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

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

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Slice the Hawaiian buns horizontally. Spread mayo on the bottom half of each bun. Add grilled chicken pieces followed by a bit more barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Top each slider with Colby jack cheese slices. Then layer on crispy bacon, red onions, shredded lettuce, and drizzle ranch dressing over everything. If you’re preparing these sliders ahead of time, wait until serving to add ranch dressing.

Step 6: Finish Up

Place the top buns on each slider, slice them if desired, and serve! Enjoy your delicious Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders at your next meal!

How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Serving Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is all about presentation and flavor. These sliders can be enjoyed in various ways to cater to different tastes and occasions. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• On a Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with extra barbecue sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Game Day Treat

• Slider Bar: Set up a slider bar with toppings like jalapeños, pickles, and extra cheese for guests to customize their own.
• Chips and Dip: Pair with tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole for a crunchy side.

Picnic Style

• In a Basket: Pack the sliders in a picnic basket lined with a checkered cloth for a charming outdoor meal.
• Fresh Fruit: Add a side of fresh fruit like watermelon or grapes for a refreshing contrast.

Kid-Friendly Meal

• Mini Skewers: Make mini skewers by stacking pieces of slider on skewers for fun eating.
• Colorful Plates: Use colorful plates to make the meal more appealing to kids.

Save it!

How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

To create the best Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, follow these tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will develop deeper flavors.
• Crispy Bacon is Key: Ensure your bacon is crispy; this adds texture and enhances the overall flavor of the sliders.
• Warm Buns: Lightly toast the Hawaiian rolls before assembling for added warmth and crunch.
• Layer Thoughtfully: Layer ingredients thoughtfully, starting with sauces, then chicken, followed by toppings, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Serve Immediately: These sliders are best served right after assembly to keep everything fresh and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Complementing your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options.

1. Coleslaw: A classic crunchy side that adds freshness and balances out the richness of the sliders.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad pairs well with barbecue flavors and offers a filling option.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob makes for a perfect summer side dish.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet contrast to salty bacon and savory chicken.
5. Baked Beans: A hearty side that complements barbecue dishes wonderfully with its sweet and smoky flavor.
6. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies with ranch dip provide a light, crunchy addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes that can affect your slider experience.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow time for the chicken to soak in the barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees internally.
• Neglecting the Bun Toasting: Not toasting the buns means missing out on added texture and flavor. Lightly toast them on the grill or in a toaster before assembling your sliders.
• Adding Ingredients Too Soon: Putting ranch dressing on too early can make buns soggy. Add it just before serving for the best texture.
• Ignoring Portion Control: Filling sliders too much can make them hard to eat. Keep ingredients balanced for easy handling and enjoyment.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place sliders on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add sliders, and cover with a lid for about 5 minutes 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?

To make these sliders healthier, consider using grilled chicken breast without skin and low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayo.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Colby jack is delicious, you can also try cheddar or pepper jack cheese for added flavor.

What sides pair well with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

These sliders go great with coleslaw, potato salad, or fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

How can I customize my Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

You can add jalapeños for spice or switch out ranch dressing for blue cheese dressing depending on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but they are also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them by adding extra toppings or adjusting the sauces used. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these sliders will surely satisfy everyone’s cravings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy your creation!