Grilled barbecue chicken is a summertime classic, and these Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders take that beloved flavor to a whole new level. Perfect for cookouts, game days, or family dinners, these sliders are packed with smoky sweetness and creamy ranch goodness. Each slider features juicy chicken topped with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh veggies—all nestled in sweet Hawaiian rolls. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: These sliders come together quickly, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers for a party or as the main dish during a casual dinner; they’re perfect for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 sliders in one recipe, they are ideal for feeding a hungry crowd without breaking a sweat.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make preparation simple and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Skillet
Zip-top bag or bowl
Paper towels
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides the perfect cooking environment for juicy chicken with grill marks and smoky flavor.
Skillet: Ideal for cooking bacon evenly to achieve that crispy texture without burning.
Zip-top bag or bowl: Perfect for marinating chicken, ensuring every piece is coated in delicious BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

Grilled barbecue chicken is a summertime classic, and we’re enjoying these smoky sweet flavors in the form of a handheld BBQ Chicken Slider that topped with ranch, crispy bacon, colby jack cheese, fresh crunchy lettuce and red onions.

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 4-inch pieces
2 cups barbecue sauce, divided (1 cup for marinating, 1/2 cup for basting)

For the Sliders

1 pack Hawaiian rolls, 12 count
8 slices bacon
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

In a zip-top bag or bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally 4 hours or overnight).

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crispy.
Once cooked, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it about 3 minutes per side.
Baste with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce while grilling. Cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Slice each Hawaiian roll horizontally to create sandwich bases.
Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each roll.
Place grilled chicken on top and add more barbecue sauce if desired.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Top each slider with Colby jack cheese squares followed by crispy bacon slices.
Add sliced red onion and shredded lettuce before drizzling ranch dressing on top.

Step 6: Finish Up

Place the top halves of the rolls back on.
Slice into individual sliders and serve immediately!

With these steps complete, enjoy your flavorful Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders at any gathering!

How to Serve Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are versatile and perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious sliders that will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Casual Gatherings

Picnic Style: Serve the sliders on a large platter at your next picnic. Pair them with refreshing drinks for a laid-back vibe.
Game Day Feast: Set up a slider bar with toppings and let guests customize their own sliders while enjoying the game.

Family Dinners

Family Style: Place the sliders in the center of the table with sides for a communal dining experience everyone will enjoy.
Plated Meals: Serve each slider on a plate with a side of fries or chips for a more formal presentation.

Outdoor Barbecues

Grill Station: Keep the sliders warm on a grill station while guests help themselves, ensuring everyone gets hot, fresh food.
Buffet Setup: Create a buffet line where guests can build their own sliders with various toppings and sauces.

How to Perfect Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

To take your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders to the next level, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

Marinate Longer: Let the chicken marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh ingredients like homemade ranch dressing for an elevated taste.
Crispy Bacon is Key: Ensure your bacon is crispy; it adds texture and enhances flavor in every bite.
Don’t Overcook Chicken: Aim for 165 degrees internal temperature to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like pickles or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Serve Fresh: If you’re prepping ahead, wait to add the ranch dressing until serving time to keep everything crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Pairing side dishes with your Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the flavors of the sliders.
Potato Salad: This classic dish is hearty and complements barbecue flavors well.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter brings a sweet touch that pairs nicely with smoky flavors.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa offer a fun and casual side option.
Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is a great choice that adds richness to your meal.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide a comforting side that fits perfectly with barbecue dishes.

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 and how to avoid them.

Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland sliders. Always allow at least 30 minutes for the chicken to soak up flavor.
Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for juicy results.
Not Using Enough Sauce: Missing out on barbecue sauce can result in dry sliders. Don’t hesitate to baste and add extra sauce before serving.
Forgetting the Crunch: Neglecting toppings like lettuce and onions can make sliders less interesting. Always include fresh ingredients for texture.
Preparing Too Early: Making sliders in advance without proper storage can lead to sogginess. If prepping ahead, add dressings just before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap sliders in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 30 seconds or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a little oil, and warm the sliders for about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other types of bread for my sliders?

Yes! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you can use any slider buns or even pita bread if you prefer.

How do I make these sliders healthier?

You can use grilled chicken breast without skin, low-fat mayo, and ranch dressing to reduce calories while keeping flavor intact.

What dipping sauces pair well with Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Some popular options include extra barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even honey mustard for added flavor.

Can I prep these sliders ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and toppings ahead of time but assemble them just before serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking for a cozy family dinner option, these sliders fit the bill perfectly. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces for an even more delightful experience!

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Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Makes 12 sliders 1x

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Description

Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are the ultimate summer treat, combining juicy grilled chicken marinated in barbecue sauce with crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh veggies—all nestled in sweet Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for cookouts, game days, or family dinners, these sliders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With flavors that burst in every bite and a combination of textures that keep you coming back for more, they’re not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether served as appetizers or the main dish, these sliders will elevate any gathering.

Instructions

Marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes.
Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy; set aside.
Grill marinated chicken for about 3 minutes on each side, basting with more barbecue sauce.
Assemble sliders by spreading mayonnaise on rolls, adding grilled chicken, then toppings of bacon, cheese, lettuce, onion, and ranch dressing.
Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American