Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken shines in a delightful twist with these Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders. Perfect for summer gatherings, game days, or casual dinners, these sliders are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The combination of smoky barbecue chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy ranch dressing makes them an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious sliders in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce combined with the freshness of ranch dressing creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: These sliders are perfect for parties, picnics, or even a cozy family dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, they are great for sharing and sure to impress your guests.
• Easy Customization: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

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 perfect char on your chicken while infusing it with delicious smoky flavors.
• Skillet: Great for cooking the turkey bacon until it’s crispy without much fuss.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Necessary for slicing chicken and vegetables safely and efficiently.

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 or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (ideally for 4 hours or overnight).

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. In a skillet over low heat, cook the turkey bacon until it becomes crispy.
2. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Grill the marinated chicken for about 3 minutes on each side.
3. Baste with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce while grilling until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Prepare the Buns

1. Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally to create sandwich halves.
2. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sliders

1. Place grilled chicken on top of the mayo-covered buns.
2. Add a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce over the chicken before topping it with cheese.
3. Layer on crispy turkey bacon, red onions, shredded lettuce, and finally, drizzle ranch dressing over everything.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Place the top buns on each slider and slice them into individual portions.
2. Serve immediately or store them in an airtight container (add ranch just before serving if prepping ahead).

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering or summer barbecue. These delightful sliders can be served in various ways to please your guests and elevate your meal experience.

Casual Get-Together

• Serve these sliders on a large platter with toothpicks for easy handling. This adds a fun touch and makes them perfect for mingling.

Backyard Barbecue

• Pair the sliders with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw and baked beans to create a true summer feast. Guests will love the combination of flavors.

Game Day Snacks

• Present the sliders alongside chips and dip for a casual game day spread. This makes them easy to grab while cheering for your favorite team.

Picnic Treats

• Wrap each slider individually in parchment paper for a convenient and portable option. Perfect for enjoying in the park or at the beach!

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Creating the ultimate Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sliders shine at any event.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken and high-quality barbecue sauce for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.

• Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the chicken overnight enhances its flavor, making each bite juicy and delicious.

• Crispy Turkey Bacon: Cook Turkey Bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the other textures in the slider.

• Layer Smartly: Assemble your sliders thoughtfully, layering ingredients so that each bite has a balanced flavor profile. Alternating textures adds interest as well.

• Serve with Extra Sauce: Provide additional barbecue sauce on the side to allow guests to customize their sliders further.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

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

1. Coleslaw: This crunchy, creamy salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders.

2. Potato Salad: A classic dish that’s creamy and filling, making it an excellent complement to sliders.

3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, this sweet side brings summer vibes and pairs wonderfully with BBQ flavors.

4. Chips and Salsa: A crunchy snack that offers a bit of zest, perfect for munching before or alongside your sliders.

5. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans bring hearty satisfaction, making them a great match for barbecue chicken.

6. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds sweetness and brightness, balancing out the richness of turkey bacon and barbecue sauce.

7. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, providing comfort alongside your flavorful sliders.

8. Vegetable Platter: A colorful array of fresh veggies with ranch dressing offers a light option that complements the meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders from good to great.

• Skipping the Marination: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland sliders. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally longer, to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long will make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees internally.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or wilted toppings detracts from the overall taste. Always opt for fresh lettuce and crisp onions for the best texture.
• Forgetting the BBQ Sauce Layer: Skipping extra barbecue sauce on top of the chicken can make sliders less flavorful. Baste generously while grilling for that smoky sweetness.
• Adding Ranch Too Early: Putting ranch dressing too soon can make the buns soggy. Drizzle it on right before serving for maximum freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sliders in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat wrapped sliders for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, checking if it’s hot enough.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.

How can I customize my Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

You can customize sliders with different cheeses, add jalapeños for heat, or switch out turkey bacon for regular bacon based on your preference.

Can I use leftover chicken for these sliders?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and saves time during meal prep.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

A smoky or sweet barbecue sauce enhances the flavors of these sliders. Choose one that fits your taste, whether it’s homemade or store-bought.

Are Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders good for parties?

Yes! These sliders are perfect for gatherings, as they are easy to serve and eat. They appeal to both adults and kids alike.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different toppings and sauces to suit your taste preferences. Try making them for your next gathering and impress your guests with these irresistible handheld delights!