Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken takes on a new and exciting form with these Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders. Perfect for summer gatherings, game days, or casual family dinners, these sliders are packed with smoky sweetness and topped with ranch, crispy turkey bacon, and fresh toppings. The combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute meal or snack.
• Flavor Explosion: The smoky barbecue chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy ranch dressing and crispy turkey bacon for an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile: Ideal for parties, picnics, or weeknight dinners, these sliders fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 sliders in one recipe, they’re great for sharing with family and friends.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the sauces to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Gather these essentials before starting your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Perfectly cooks the chicken while adding that delicious grilled flavor.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the turkey bacon until crispy without burning.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Makes marinating easy and mess-free.
• Knife: Essential for slicing the buns and other ingredients evenly.

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

Marinate chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl with 1 cup of barbecue sauce. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; ideally, do this for 4 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

While the chicken marinates:
Heat a skillet over low heat.
Cook turkey bacon until crispy.
Rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Prepare your grill to medium heat:
1. Cook the marinated chicken about 3 minutes per side.
2. Baste with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce while cooking.
3. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Slice Hawaiian buns horizontally:
Spread mayonnaise on bottom buns.
Add cooked chicken and drizzle with more barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Top each slider with:
Colby jack cheese,
Turkey bacon,
Sliced red onions,
Shredded lettuce,
Drizzle ranch dressing over lettuce.

If prepping ahead, add ranch dressing just before serving.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Place top buns on sliders:
Slice them into individual servings.
Enjoy your delicious Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders!

How to Serve Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for a casual gathering or a summer barbecue. These sliders can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

For a Crowd

• Platter Presentation: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for guests to easily grab and enjoy.
• Add Variety: Serve with different sauces like extra ranch or spicy barbecue sauce on the side.

Pair with Drinks

• Refreshing Lemonade: Offer fresh lemonade or iced tea, which complements the smoky flavors of the sliders.
• Craft Beer Selection: A light lager or pale ale pairs well with BBQ flavors and adds a refreshing touch.

Complement with Extras

• Pickle Tray: Provide a selection of pickles and olives for added crunch and tanginess.
• Chips and Dips: Serve tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole as a crunchy side option.

How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

To ensure your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders turn out delicious every time, follow these tips for perfection.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight deepens the flavor, making each bite more savory.
• Crisp the Bacon Perfectly: Cook Turkey Bacon at low heat to achieve maximum crispiness without burning.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes for added freshness and crunch in your sliders.
• Layer Wisely: Stack ingredients strategically to prevent sogginess; place cheese directly on hot chicken to melt slightly before adding cold toppings.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add jalapeños or spicy barbecue sauce to elevate the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Serving side dishes alongside your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that balances the richness of the sliders.
2. Potato Salad: This classic side dish is hearty and pairs well with barbecue flavors, making it an ideal choice.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter brings sweetness that complements the savory sliders beautifully.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a comforting contrast to the flavors of the chicken sliders.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a unique twist while maintaining that perfect crunch factor.
6. Veggie Platter: Fresh cut vegetables serve as light, refreshing bites that contrast nicely against richer foods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible, to enhance taste.
• Cooking Chicken on High Heat: Cooking chicken too quickly can lead to dryness. Always use medium heat on the grill to ensure even cooking and juiciness.
• Overloading the Sliders: While it’s tempting to pile on all ingredients, it can make sliders messy and hard to eat. Stick to a balanced amount of each topping for easy enjoyment.
• Neglecting the Bacon Crispiness: Under-cooked Turkey Bacon won’t provide that desired crunch. Ensure you cook it until crispy for a satisfying texture contrast.
• Forgetting the Ranch Dressing Timing: Adding ranch dressing too early can make the toppings soggy. If prepping ahead, wait until just before serving to drizzle over the sliders.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Place sliders in the skillet and cover with a lid, heating for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of bread for Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Yes! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you can use any slider buns or even mini ciabattas for a different texture.

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

Feel free to add additional toppings like jalapeños, avocado, or even swap out turkey bacon for regular bacon based on your preference.

What side dishes pair well with Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Consider serving these sliders with coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal!

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare all components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for best results.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces, making them perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Try these sliders today and enjoy their smoky, savory flavors!