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These Hawaiian roll sliders packed with shredded chicken, crispy bacon and ranch dressing turn into an addictive party snack that won't last long at any gathering. When tender chicken meets crunchy bacon and tangy ranch, you get a flavor combo that's both simple and impressive.
I whipped these up for a last-second Super Bowl party when I needed something filling but quick. The whole batch was gone before halftime, and now everyone asks me to bring them whenever we meet up.
Ingredients
- Shredded chicken: Forms the substantial foundation that soaks up all that yummy ranch flavor
- Ranch dressing: Brings that distinctive creamy tanginess throughout
- Crispy bacon: Delivers that can't-resist smoky crunch and flavor boost
- Hawaiian sweet rolls: Give just the right mix of softness with a hint of sweetness
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Gets all gooey and gives that satisfying cheese pull
- Melted butter mixed with garlic powder: Makes a fragrant golden crust
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a light nutty taste that makes the whole slider better
How To Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders
- Prepare the Rolls:
- Cut all Hawaiian rolls across the middle while keeping them stuck together. Put the bottom part in a greased 9x13 baking dish. This keeps everything tidy and makes sure you get all flavors in each bite.
- Create the Filling:
- Stir shredded chicken with ranch dressing so all pieces get coated in that creamy goodness. Mix in the bacon bits and Parmesan until everything's well combined. The trick is making the mixture spread out evenly so each slider tastes just right.
- Layer the Components:
- Spread your chicken mix all over the bottom roll layer right to the edges. Sprinkle cheddar generously on top of the chicken to make a cheese blanket that'll melt into every little space.
- Finish and Bake:
- Put the top roll half over the cheese and brush with your garlic butter mix so it drips a bit into the cracks. This makes a beautiful golden top with amazing garlic butter flavor. Cover with foil and bake until cheese gets totally melty and tops turn light brown.
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My top trick for these sliders is grabbing a store-bought rotisserie chicken when you can. The already flavored meat brings extra tastiness that works so well with the ranch. Once during a power outage, I made these with a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and we ate them cold. My family still talks about those "blackout sliders" as the tastiest version ever.
Make-Ahead Instructions
These sliders work great for planning ahead. Put everything together except the garlic butter topping and keep covered in the fridge for up to a day. When you're ready to eat, add the garlic butter on top and bake as normal, just cook about 5 minutes longer if they're coming straight from the cold fridge. Letting them sit actually helps the flavors mix together better.
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Serving Suggestions
These sliders go really well with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a full spread, try adding sweet potato fries, some pickle spears, or a light coleslaw. They make a great main dish for casual get-togethers and can be cut apart before serving or left for guests to tear off themselves. People love the hands-on fun of these sliders at parties.
Storage Tips
Keep any extras in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To warm them up, put them in a 325°F oven under foil for around 10 minutes until hot throughout. Try not to use the microwave as it can make the bread tough. For best results, pull apart individual sliders before reheating so they warm up evenly.
Customization Options
This basic recipe works for tons of different versions. Try using leftover turkey after the holidays, switch cheddar for pepper jack to add some spice, or throw in sliced jalapeños for extra heat. You can also mix in caramelized onions, add avocado slices, or use half BBQ sauce instead of all ranch. What's great about these sliders is how they work with whatever you've got in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken from the store?
For sure! Grab a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from the store, shred it up, and mix with the other goodies for a quick shortcut.
- → What swaps can I make?
You can totally mix it up! Replace Ranch with Caesar dressing or garlic mayo. Switch to Swiss or provolone cheese. The flavors are up to you!
- → Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Totally! Stack up the sliders in your dish, cover them tight, and pop them in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, just follow the steps and maybe add an extra minute or two in the oven.
- → What side dishes work well?
A crisp salad, crunchy coleslaw, or a bag of chips all go great with these sliders. They're also perfect for buffets and party spreads!
- → Can I make a vegetarian version?
Of course! Roast some veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to replace the chicken. Skip the bacon or use plant-based substitutes for a veggie-friendly option.