Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken sliders are a must-try for any summer gathering. Our Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders combine juicy grilled chicken with crispy Turkey bacon, rich ranch dressing, and melty Colby Jack cheese. These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners. They offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from prep to serving, these sliders fit perfectly into busy schedules.
• Flavor Explosion: The smoky barbecue chicken combined with creamy ranch and crispy bacon creates a delicious flavor combination.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these sliders are easy to serve and always a hit with guests.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients or add toppings based on your preferences for a personalized touch.
• Handheld Delight: Easy to eat, making them ideal for casual meals or parties where guests can grab and go.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these tasty sliders, gather the necessary tools and prepare your workspace for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skillet
• Zip-top bag or bowl
• Paper towels
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor in the chicken, giving it the perfect char.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the Turkey bacon to crispy perfection before adding it to the sliders.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Great for marinating the chicken evenly in barbecue sauce.
• Knife & Cutting Board: Necessary for slicing ingredients like onions and buns cleanly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Sliders

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 4-inch pieces
• 1 pack Hawaiian rolls, 12 count
• 8 slices Turkey Bacon
• 2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
• 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 Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

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

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. Place a skillet over low heat and add the Turkey bacon slices.
2. Cook until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Remove chicken from marinade, discarding any leftover marinade.
3. Grill chicken pieces for about 3 minutes per side, basting with an additional ½ cup of barbecue sauce while cooking.
4. Ensure that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice Hawaiian buns horizontally to create sandwich bases.
2. Spread mayonnaise on each bottom bun, then layer with grilled chicken.
3. Add extra barbecue sauce on top of the chicken if desired.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Place a square of Colby Jack cheese on each slider.
2. Top with crispy Turkey bacon slices, followed by red onion rings and shredded lettuce.
3. Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce.

Step 6: Complete Your Sliders

1. Place top buns on each assembled slider and slice them into individual portions if needed.
2. Serve immediately, or store without ranch dressing until ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a picnic, a game day party, or a casual dinner. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the sliders on a large platter with fresh herbs and colorful veggies for a vibrant display that impresses guests.

Mini Slider Baskets

• Use small baskets lined with parchment paper to serve individual sliders. This adds a fun touch and makes it easy for guests to grab their own.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Offer various dipping sauces like extra barbecue sauce, ranch, or even hot sauce to let guests personalize their sliders.

Slider Bar

• Set up a slider bar with toppings such as jalapeños, pickles, and different cheeses for guests to customize their Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.

Picnic Style

• Pack the sliders in a cooler with chips and drinks for an on-the-go meal that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Creating the perfect Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for mouthwatering results.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
• Cook on Medium Heat: Maintain medium heat on the grill to avoid burning while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
• Crispy Turkey Bacon: Cook the bacon slowly to achieve maximum crispiness without burning.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lettuce and tomatoes for added crunch and flavor.
• Layer Wisely: Start with mayo, then chicken, cheese, bacon, and toppings in that order for balanced flavors in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

To complement your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, consider these delicious side dishes. They add variety and enhance your meal experience.

1. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the rich flavors of the sliders. Prepare it with a vinegar base for extra zest.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic side that pairs well with barbecue flavors. Try adding mustard or herbs for a twist.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter is a summertime favorite that brings sweetness to your meal.
4. Chips and Salsa: A simple yet satisfying option; crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa offer a nice contrast to the sliders.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made of seasonal fruits provides freshness and offsets the richness of the sliders beautifully.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans complement barbecue dishes perfectly—consider using brown sugar or maple syrup for sweetness.
7. Pickle Platter: A variety of pickles adds acidity and crunch, balancing out the flavors of the sliders wonderfully.
8. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also provide a unique twist compared to regular fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, a few common pitfalls can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to be aware of:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long makes it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees internally.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can affect cooking time and texture. Let ingredients, especially cheese and ranch dressing, come to room temperature before assembling.
• Ignoring Slider Assembly: Not layering ingredients properly can make sliders messy. Follow the assembly order for better flavor distribution and easier eating.
• Forgetting About Resting Time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking releases juices. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing for juicier sliders.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be cautious not to overheat as this can make them tough.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders that may help you prepare these delicious treats.

How can I customize Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

You can switch up the cheese or add other toppings like avocado or jalapeños. Feel free to use different sauces based on your preference!

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great as a quick substitute; just mix it with barbecue sauce before assembling.

What is the best way to serve these sliders?

Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for parties, picnics, or game days. Serve them alongside chips or a fresh salad.

Are these sliders kid-friendly?

Yes! Most kids love sliders due to their size and tasty flavors, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with various toppings and sauces, making them suitable for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful handheld meals with friends and family!