Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are the perfect blend of smoky, sweet flavors, making them a hit for any gathering. These sliders are great for summer barbecues, game days, or casual dinners with family. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and zesty ranch dressing creates an unforgettable handheld treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, these sliders are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: The fusion of BBQ sauce and ranch dressing gives each slider a burst of flavor that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as appetizers at parties or as a main dish for family dinners; they fit every occasion!
• Kid-Friendly: These sliders are easy to hold and eat, making them ideal for kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare the chicken in advance and assemble the sliders right before serving for maximum freshness.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up these delightful Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the 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: Provides that smoky flavor we all love in barbecue chicken.
• Skillet: Perfect for cooking turkey bacon to crispy perfection without mess.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly, ensuring great flavor throughout.

Ingredients

Chicken and Rolls

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 4 inch pieces
• 1 pack Hawaiian rolls, 12 count

Toppings

• 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 breasts with 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
2. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—ideally 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. In a skillet over low heat, cook the turkey bacon until crispy.
2. Transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease while you prepare the rest.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

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

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally to create sandwich bottoms.
2. Spread mayonnaise on each bottom bun followed by a piece of grilled chicken.
3. Add extra barbecue sauce on top of the chicken before layering with colby jack cheese.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. On top of the cheese, add crispy turkey bacon slices, red onion, and shredded lettuce.
2. Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce. If preparing in advance, wait to add ranch until just before serving.

Step 6: Serve

1. Place the top buns on each slider and slice into individual servings.
2. Enjoy your delicious Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders!

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

These Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering. Their delicious flavors and easy-to-eat format make them a hit at parties, picnics, or casual dinners.

Casual Gatherings

• BBQ Sauce Drizzle: Serve sliders with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Guests can customize their flavor.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken and toppings wrapped in lettuce leaves instead of buns.

Game Day Events

• Platter Presentation: Arrange sliders on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs. This makes for an eye-catching centerpiece.
• Finger Food Style: Provide toothpicks for easy grabbing. This is perfect for guests to enjoy while mingling.

Family Dinners

• Salad Side: Pair the sliders with a light salad to balance the richness of the ranch dressing and bacon.
• Chips and Dip: Serve with tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole for a fun crunch alongside the sliders.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

To ensure your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are outstanding every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Properly: Allow chicken to marinate longer than 30 minutes for deeper flavor absorption.
• Cook at Right Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated well; this helps achieve those perfect grill marks and juicy chicken.
• Layer Thoughtfully: Build your sliders with care; place cheese directly on hot chicken so it melts perfectly.
• Crispy Bacon Is Key: Ensure your Turkey Bacon is crispy for added texture that complements the soft bun.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Pairing sides with your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the sliders. Consider adding apples for sweetness.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that everyone loves.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter adds a sweet flavor that pairs nicely with BBQ chicken.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can counterbalance the savory flavors of the sliders. Use seasonal fruits for best taste.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans are a classic side dish that goes great with any BBQ meal.
6. Pickles: Tangy pickles provide an excellent contrast to rich flavors, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long makes it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees.
• Neglecting the Toppings: Forgetting about fresh toppings like lettuce and onions can make your sliders less appealing. Don’t skip these for added crunch and flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Rolls: The slider buns should complement the filling. Choose soft, fresh Hawaiian rolls for the best texture.
• Adding Ranch Too Early: If you’re prepping ahead, adding ranch dressing too early can make the buns soggy. Save it until just before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped sliders for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each slider on high for about 30 seconds, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’re not alone! Here are some of the most common queries.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute Colby Jack with cheddar or pepper jack based on your preference.

How do I make these sliders spicy?

Add jalapeños or a spicy barbecue sauce to give your sliders a kick!

Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare all ingredients and assemble them without ranch dressing until you’re ready to serve.

What sides pair well with Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Consider serving them with coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a perfect summer meal.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a fantastic choice for parties or casual dinners. Their combination of smoky flavors and creamy ranch offers versatility that suits everyone’s taste. Don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces!