If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than this Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and the tangy creaminess of ranch dressing all nestled inside soft Hawaiian rolls, these sliders have the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and zesty notes. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving a delicious bite, these sliders will quickly become your go-to comfort food that everyone raves about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the secret to making this Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe truly shine. Each component plays an essential role in building layers of texture, taste, and color that make the sliders irresistible.
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: These sweet, soft rolls are the perfect base that hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing: Adds creamy, tangy moisture that infuses every bite with classic ranch flavor.
- 1 pound sliced chicken (pre-cooked deli meat): Tender and convenient, this is the hearty protein star.
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (about 9 thick slices): Provides a rich, melty layer that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 cup bacon bits: Sprinkled on top for salty crunch and smoky goodness.
- 5 tablespoons butter (melted): Key for the luxurious glaze that coats the sliders.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to balance savory flavors in the glaze.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tangy kick in the glaze’s flavor profile.
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth and umami to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds: Adds a slight nutty crunch and visual appeal in the finishing glaze.
How to Make Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Rolls
Start by lining a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with foil for easy cleanup and preheat your oven to 350°F. Carefully slice your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating perfect lids for your sliders. Place the bottom halves in the dish and, if you like, toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes to enhance their texture and add a subtle crispness.
Step 2: Layer on the Ranch and Chicken
Generously spread ranch dressing over the toasted bottom halves of the rolls. This adds that irresistible creamy tang that pairs so well with the chicken and cheese. Take your pre-sliced chicken and fold each slice in half before layering them on top of the ranch. This double layer makes sure every bite is packed with meaty goodness.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Bacon
Next, lay thick slices of sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken. The cheese will melt beautifully in the oven, binding everything together. Then sprinkle the bacon bits generously on top for that signature crunch and smoky flavor that lifts these sliders to the next level.
Step 4: Warm the Sliders and Prepare the Glaze
Place the open-faced sliders in the oven for about 5 minutes so the chicken warms through and the cheese begins to melt. While this is happening, start on the sweet and tangy glaze by melting the butter in a bowl. Stir in brown sugar, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until everything is combined into a silky mixture.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake to Perfection
Take the sliders out of the oven and carefully place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls over the filling. Spoon the luscious glaze evenly across the tops of the sliders, ensuring every one gets that glossy, flavorful coat. Bake the whole dish for 12 to 18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops of the buns turn a nice golden brown.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Using a serrated knife, slice the sliders apart right in the baking dish, making serving quick and mess-free. Serve them warm to experience that perfect mix of melty cheese, sweet and savory glaze, and tender chicken with every bite.
How to Serve Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your sliders even further, consider garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of finely sliced green onions. These add not only a splash of color but a fresh bite that contrasts nicely with the richness of the sliders.
Side Dishes
Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like crispy French fries, creamy coleslaw, or a refreshing garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside baked beans or roasted vegetables to round out the feast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, serve these sliders on a wooden board with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties. You can also add pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick that guests will love. Mini slider platters with different dipping sauces like ranch or chipotle aioli make them even more fun and interactive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Save any uneaten sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for next-day lunches or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze these sliders wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
For the best results when reheating, place the sliders in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil. Warm them at 350°F for about 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rolls soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar provides a nice tang, you can swap it for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda to customize the flavor to your liking.
Is it okay to use homemade ranch dressing instead of store-bought?
Definitely! Homemade ranch can add a fresh, personalized touch that enhances the dish even more. Just ensure your ranch has a good balance of tang and creaminess.
Can these sliders be made vegetarian?
You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken and bacon with grilled mushrooms or a plant-based chicken substitute, then layering as usual with ranch and cheese.
What’s the best bread substitute if I can’t find Hawaiian rolls?
Soft braised dinner rolls or small brioche buns work well as substitutes, offering a similar sweetness and soft texture that complements this recipe.
How spicy is this Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe?
The recipe itself isn’t spicy, but if you love heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ranch or jalapeño slices to the sliders can easily give a spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe is a total game-changer for any casual gathering or cozy night in. The combination of flavors and ease of preparation make it one of my absolute favorites to share with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly these sliders disappear from the plate!
Print
Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
These Chicken, Bacon and Ranch Sliders are the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer or meal, featuring tender chicken, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy ranch dressing all nestled inside soft Hawaiian rolls. Topped with a buttery, sweet, and tangy poppy seed glaze, they bake to golden perfection for a warm, melty, and irresistible treat that’s perfect for game day or any casual gathering.
Ingredients
Slider Base
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing
- 1 pound sliced chicken (pre-cooked deli meat)
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (about 9 thick slices)
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
Glaze
- 5 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish and Oven: Line a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with foil for easy cleanup and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toast Bottom Rolls: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves into the prepared baking dish and optionally toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes to add a slight crispiness.
- Add Ranch Dressing: Evenly spread 1/3 cup of ranch dressing over the bottom halves of the rolls to infuse flavor and moisture.
- Layer Chicken, Cheese, and Bacon: Fold the sliced chicken in half for better layering and place it over the ranch-covered rolls. Next, layer slices of sharp cheddar cheese on top, followed by sprinkling the bacon bits evenly.
- Warm the Sliders: Place these open-faced sliders back into the oven for up to 5 minutes to warm the meat and melt the cheese slightly while preparing the glaze.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, melt 5 tablespoons of butter, then stir in 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, and 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce until combined and smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Place the top halves of the rolls onto the sliders. Spoon the prepared glaze evenly over the tops. Bake the fully assembled sliders for 12 to 18 minutes until the cheese has melted completely and the rolls are beginning to brown on top.
- Serve: Use a serrated knife to carefully slice the sliders apart for serving. Serve them warm to enjoy the melty, flavorful combination.
Notes
- For even cooking, you can lightly toast the bottom rolls before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.
- Use pre-cooked chicken deli meat for convenience; alternatively, cooked chicken breast can be sliced and used.
- Bacon bits can be substituted with freshly cooked and crumbled bacon for more texture and flavor.
- Adjust the glaze ingredients to your preference, adding more or less brown sugar for sweetness or mustard for tang.
- These sliders are best served warm but can be prepared ahead and reheated gently in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American