Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders – they are pure, mouthwatering magic! Picture this: a cozy evening with friends, laughter echoing through the room, and these little beauties making their grand entrance. Seriously, these sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser and a staple at my gatherings. They’re ooey-gooey, savory, and just downright irresistible.
What’s special about these sliders, you ask? Well, they pack a flavor punch with a trio of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing nestled between soft, fluffy buns. Every bite is a delightful explosion of taste, making them perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy family dinner. They also have a pretty impressive reputation in my household – I often find myself making a double batch because they disappear faster than I can say, “Who wants seconds?”
What’s in Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders?
Let’s dive into the deliciousness that makes these sliders so special:
Slider Buns: I love using King’s Hawaiian buns for a slight sweetness that complements the savory filling beautifully. They’re soft and just perfect for easy lifting – no mess!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken forms the hearty base of these sliders. I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken will do!
Cooked Bacon: Oh, bacon! It’s crispy, salty, and elevates the flavor to a whole new level. I like to chop it into small pieces for easy distribution.
Ranch Dressing: The creamy, herby goodness of ranch dressing brings everything together. I usually go for a good quality brand, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade ranch is a fantastic option too!
Cheddar Cheese: We need that gooey factor, and melted cheddar does the trick nicely. You could experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack if you’re looking for a kick!
Green Onions: These are optional, but they add a burst of freshness and color to the sliders. I love a little garnish, especially when it’s springtime!
Butter: Brushing the slider tops with garlic butter gives an extra rich flavor and helps achieve that golden brown color.
Garlic Powder and Dried Parsley: These buddies are here to amp up the flavor. The garlic adds depth while the parsley is a classic garnish.
Is Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health! While these sliders are undeniably delicious, they need to be enjoyed in moderation.
Cooked Chicken: This is a good source of lean protein which is great for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Cooked Bacon: While it packs flavor, bacon can be high in saturated fat and sodium. I recommend choosing quality bacon and using it sparingly.
Ranch Dressing: Typically high in fat and calories, you might consider using a lighter version or making your own to control the ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheese adds calcium and protein but can also be calorie-dense. Opt for a moderate amount to keep that cheesiness without overdoing it!
Keep these considerations in mind, and you can absolutely enjoy these sliders as part of a balanced diet!
Ingredients
– 12 slider buns (King’s Hawaiian or similar)
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried parsley (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, so perfect for sharing, or keeping it all to yourself (no judgment here!).
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders?
Are you ready to whip up these sliders? Let’s get to it!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, ranch dressing, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cut the slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spoon the chicken, bacon, and ranch mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the buns. Top with the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Place the top halves of the slider buns over the filling.
6. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the slider buns.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve warm, optionally garnished with more green onions if desired. Enjoy!
Slider Savvy: Tips and Twists
Here are a few tips to help you personalize these sliders:
– **Add Jalapeños:** If you’re feeling spicy, throw in some sliced pickled jalapeños for heat.
– **Make It Vegetarian:** Swap the chicken and bacon for grilled veggies and some hearty black beans to create a veggie-packed version.
– **Serving Suggestions:** These sliders pair wonderfully with a side of crispy french fries or a fresh salad. Want to take it up a notch? Serve with additional ranch for dipping!
I honestly can’t wait for you to try these Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders! They’re such a joy to make and even more fun to eat. If you end up making them, please share your delicious adventure with me—I’d love to hear how they turned out!
