Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders (Without Pork)

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Introduction

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate combination of savory and satisfying, a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender, shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce, creamy ranch, and melted cheese, all nestled in soft slider buns. Each bite is a harmony of smoky, creamy, and cheesy goodness, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for game days, parties, or casual dinners.

What sets these sliders apart is how effortlessly they come together. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, they deliver big flavor with minimal effort. I first made these for a family get-together, and they quickly disappeared from the tray—leaving everyone asking for the recipe!

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can customize it by adding crispy bacon, sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even caramelized onions for extra sweetness. Serve them warm, straight out of the oven, and watch as the melted cheese stretches with every delicious bite. Trust me, once you’ve had these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation—they’re simply irresistible!

Perfect For

These sliders are perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or when you’re craving a hearty, flavorful finger food. They’re quick to make and packed with crowd-pleasing flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor-Packed: The smoky turkey bacon, sweet BBQ sauce, and creamy ranch dressing combine for an irresistible taste.
  • Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep and can be ready in just 30 minutes.
  • Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love these sliders.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust toppings or spice levels to suit your preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 12 sliders
  • Calories Per Serving: Approximately 220 calories
  • Key Nutrients Per Serving:
    • Protein: 15g
    • Fat: 9g
    • Carbohydrates: 20g
    • Fiber: 1g

Ingredients

For the Sliders:

  • 12 slider buns
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1/3 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

For Garnish:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Extra BBQ sauce

Ingredient Highlights

  • Turkey Bacon: A lean alternative to pork bacon that adds smoky crispness.
  • BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or make your own for a rich, tangy flavor.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Adds a melty, gooey layer of cheesiness to every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.

2. Assemble the Sliders

  1. Slice the slider buns in half horizontally without separating them. Place the bottom half of the buns into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the bottom buns.
  3. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken, followed by the chopped turkey bacon.
  4. Drizzle ranch dressing over the top for a creamy finish.
  5. Place the top half of the buns over the filling.

3. Bake the Sliders

  1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley. Brush this mixture over the tops of the buns.
  2. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
  3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.

4. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  2. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.

How to Serve

Serve these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders warm as a main dish or appetizer. Pair with a side of coleslaw, potato chips, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the BBQ chicken mixture and cook the turkey bacon in advance to save time.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for some heat.
  • Slider Bun Options: Use whole wheat or gluten-free slider buns if preferred.

Recipe Variations

  • Buffalo Style: Take your dish to the next level with a spicy, tangy twist! Replace the BBQ sauce with your favorite buffalo sauce for a bold and fiery kick. Pair it with creamy blue cheese dressing instead of ranch to balance the heat. You can also sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese on top for added creaminess and depth of flavor. Perfect for game day or whenever you’re craving a zesty variation!
  • Vegetarian Option: Make this recipe vegetarian-friendly by swapping out the chicken with jackfruit or plant-based chicken alternatives. Jackfruit’s fibrous texture mimics shredded chicken, making it an excellent substitute for hearty dishes. For that classic smoky flavor, use veggie bacon or smoked tempeh slices. Finish it off with your favorite plant-based cheese to ensure it remains satisfying and packed with flavor.
  • Cheese Upgrade: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, experimenting with different varieties can bring exciting new dimensions to this recipe. Swap the sharpness of cheddar for the smooth, melty goodness of Monterey Jack, which pairs perfectly with bold sauces. For a more sophisticated flavor, try smoked Gouda—it adds a subtly sweet, smoky note that elevates the entire dish. Feel free to mix and match cheeses for a customized experience!
  • BBQ Honey Mustard Twist: If you’re looking for something a little sweeter and tangier, combine BBQ sauce with honey mustard. This variation works wonderfully for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness balanced by a tangy kick. Pair it with a milder cheese like Colby or Havarti to let the sauce shine.
  • Tex-Mex Style: Add some south-of-the-border flair by spicing things up with a chipotle BBQ sauce. Top the dish with sliced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cumin, and some fresh cilantro. Swap cheddar for a Mexican cheese blend or pepper jack for an extra kick of heat.
  • Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Adapt this recipe to suit a low-carb or keto lifestyle by using sugar-free BBQ sauce and cheese options. You can also substitute breading or carb-heavy sides with crushed pork rinds or almond flour alternatives for added crunch.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: If you have leftover sliders, store them properly to keep them fresh and flavorful. Place the fully assembled, cooked sliders in an airtight container or tightly wrap them in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them for a few minutes:
    • In the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the sliders on a baking sheet, and cover loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
    • In the Microwave: For a quicker option, place a slider on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds or until heated through.
    This method ensures the bread stays soft and the BBQ chicken mixture retains its moisture and flavor.
  • Freezing: To enjoy these sliders fresh even after a longer storage period, freeze the BBQ chicken mixture separately from the bread and cheese. Here’s how:
    • Preparation: Allow the BBQ chicken mixture to cool completely to avoid freezer condensation, which can cause ice crystals to form.
    • Packaging: Transfer the mixture into a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. Label it with the date for easy tracking. The mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months.
    • Thawing and Assembling: When ready to use, thaw the BBQ chicken mixture in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option. Once thawed, assemble the sliders fresh using buns, cheese, and any toppings you like. Bake the sliders in the oven according to the recipe for a fresh, delicious result.
  • Make-Ahead Tips: For a convenient party or meal prep option, you can pre-assemble the sliders without baking and freeze them as a complete unit:
    • Wrap the assembled (but not baked) sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for double protection against freezer burn.
    • When you’re ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through.

Special Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver for this recipe.

Q: Can I cook these sliders in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can assemble the sliders in smaller batches and air fry at 350°F for 7-10 minutes.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free buns and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines smoky, savory, and tangy tastes into one irresistible bite. Perfect for game days, parties, or casual dinners, these sliders are packed with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and tangy BBQ sauce, all nestled between soft, buttery slider buns.

The sliders are not only simple to assemble but also highly adaptable. You can add cheese, fresh veggies, or spice them up with a dash of hot sauce to make them your own. Whether served as a main dish or a hearty appetizer, they’re sure to impress family and friends alike.

Whip up a batch today and watch them disappear before your eyes! Share your sliders on social media and tag me—I’d love to see how yours turn out. Happy cooking!

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