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This BBQ Chicken Slider recipe brings all the excitement of summer grilling into a cheesy handheld delight that packs a punch of smoky sweetness and tangy ranch. Each bite layers juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, sharp colby jack cheese, fresh lettuce, and red onion between soft Hawaiian rolls. I reach for this one whenever I need a quick crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or tailgates.
The first time I assembled these sliders, I watched them disappear faster than any dish I have made. Now when I invite friends over, these are always requested.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: cut into four inch pieces for fast grilling and juicy bites
- Hawaiian rolls: delightfully soft and slightly sweet perfect for sliders
- Bacon: cooked until crispy adds smoky crunch to every mouthful
- Barbecue sauce: use your favorite brand and look for one with a bold flavor
- Mayonnaise: creamy base that pairs with ranch for ultimate sandwich moisture
- Ranch dressing: opt for a buttermilk variety for tanginess
- Shredded lettuce: choose crisp romaine or iceberg to keep sliders fresh
- Red onion: sliced thin for bite and color always go for firm onions with shiny skin
- Colby jack cheese: the ideal melty sharpness and vibrant color cracker cut melts evenly
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Combine chicken pieces with one cup of barbecue sauce in a zip-top bag or bowl and refrigerate at least thirty minutes for best flavor. Letting it marinate overnight yields even deeper taste.
- Cook the Bacon:
- Lay bacon slices in a skillet over low heat and let them cook slowly. This method crisps the bacon without burning. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up excess fat.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Heat your grill to medium. Place marinated chicken on the grates and cook about three minutes per side. Baste with fresh barbecue sauce as they grill. Chicken should reach one hundred sixty five degrees for food safety.
- Prep the Bread:
- Using a sharp knife slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Spread a layer of mayo on the cut side of the bottom half.
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Place grilled chicken pieces on the mayo lined buns. Spoon on extra barbecue sauce for more flavor. Layer with colby jack cheese squares. Top with crispy bacon strips then add sliced red onion and shredded lettuce. Drizzle ranch dressing over the greens.
- Finish and Serve:
- Set the top halves of the rolls onto the stacked sliders. Slice into individual sandwiches and serve immediately for best texture.
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My favorite part is the way the cheesy barbecue chicken mingles with the cool crunch of lettuce and the snap of red onion. Once my nephew declared these sliders better than any restaurant sandwich he had ever tasted and that memory always makes me smile.
Storage Tips
Store leftover assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. If making ahead keep lettuce and ranch separate until right before serving to prevent sogginess. To reheat wrap sliders in foil and warm in a low oven to preserve juiciness and keep bread soft.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap colby jack with cheddar or pepper jack for more kick. Gluten free rolls work beautifully if needed. Turkey bacon makes a delicious lighter substitute while rotisserie chicken saves time if you skip grilling.
Serving Suggestions
Pair sliders with sweet potato fries coleslaw or grilled corn for a true cookout spread. For a party try slicing each slider in half for bite-sized snacks. A crisp dill pickle or extra ranch on the side is always popular.
Cultural or Historical Context
Sliders originated as bite-sized hamburgers in classic diners but these BBQ chicken sliders showcase the all-American love for smoky barbecue and southern flavors. The Hawaiian roll adds a sweet island touch that has become a modern staple in sandwich recipes.
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Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep chicken juicy on the grill?
Marinating the chicken and not overcooking it are key. Grill chicken just until it reaches 165°F for a juicy result.
- → Can I prepare sliders ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble all ingredients except ranch dressing, wrap tightly, and add ranch just before serving for best texture.
- → What cheese works best for these sliders?
Colby jack cheese melts well and adds creamy flavor. Cheddar or Monterey jack are also good alternatives.
- → Are Hawaiian rolls necessary?
Hawaiian rolls add sweetness and softness. You may use other slider buns or soft dinner rolls if preferred.
- → How do I make bacon extra crispy?
Fry bacon over medium-low heat, allowing fat to render slowly, then drain on paper towels for maximum crispness.