turkey bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Grilled barbecue chicken sliders are a delicious way to enjoy summer flavors all year round. Our turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for parties, picnics, or cozy family dinners. Packed with smoky sweetness and topped with creamy ranch, crispy turkey bacon, and fresh veggies, these sliders will be a hit at any gathering. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, they’re sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of barbecue sauce and ranch dressing creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip these up quickly for any occasion.
• Versatile Options: Customize the toppings or sauces to suit your preferences—add jalapeños for heat or switch up the cheese!
• Perfect for Any Gathering: These sliders are great for casual get-togethers, game days, or even family meals.
• Kid-Friendly: The fun size and flavors make them a hit with kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

When making turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, having the right tools can make 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: Essential for achieving that perfect smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking turkey bacon until it’s crispy without creating too much mess.
• Zip-top bag or bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly in barbecue sauce.

Ingredients

To create these delicious turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, gather the following 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, cooked until crispy
• 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 4 hours) before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the turkey Bacon

1. Heat a skillet over low heat and add the turkey bacon slices.
2. Cook until crispy, then rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Cook the marinated chicken for about 3 minutes per side, basting with an additional 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce while grilling.
3. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before removing it from the grill.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice each Hawaiian bun horizontally to prepare for filling.
2. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
3. Add grilled chicken pieces on top of mayo, followed by a little extra barbecue sauce.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Place a square of Colby jack cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
2. Crumble crispy turkey bacon over the cheese, then add sliced red onions and shredded lettuce.
3. Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce; if prepping ahead, wait to add ranch until just before serving.

Step 6: Serve

1. Place the top buns onto each slider assembly.
2. Slice into individual sliders as needed and serve immediately—enjoy!

How to Serve turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a versatile dish perfect for gatherings, parties, or casual weeknight dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Casual Gatherings

• Serve the sliders on a large platter with colorful toothpicks for easy grabbing. This makes them perfect for parties and get-togethers.

Picnic Style

• Pack the sliders in a picnic basket along with fresh fruit and cold drinks. They make for a delicious outdoor meal that’s easy to enjoy.

Game Day Treats

• Arrange the sliders on a football-themed serving tray during game day. Pair them with chips and dip for a complete snack spread.

Family Dinner

• Present the sliders on individual plates alongside homemade fries or sweet potato wedges. This creates a fun and engaging family meal atmosphere.

How to Perfect turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

Creating mouthwatering turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sliders turn out perfectly every time.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate your chicken overnight instead of just 30 minutes.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes will enhance both flavor and texture in your sliders.
• Grill with Care: Keep an eye on the chicken while grilling to prevent it from drying out; aim for juicy perfection.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to add more toppings like pickles or jalapeños based on your taste preferences.
• Slice Buns Evenly: Ensure your Hawaiian rolls are sliced evenly to hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.

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 great options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that complements the smoky flavors of the sliders beautifully.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds a hearty element to your meal and pairs well with barbecue flavors.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn provides sweetness that balances the savory sliders perfectly.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa add a delightful crunch and zestiness.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer comfort food vibes that harmonize nicely with barbecue dishes.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich sliders, adding a light touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating chicken for less than 30 minutes can result in bland sliders. Aim for at least 4 hours for best flavor.
• Using low-quality barbecue sauce: A poor sauce can ruin the dish. Choose a high-quality barbecue sauce that complements the flavors of the chicken and ranch.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken beyond 165 degrees can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without losing moisture.
• Skipping the resting phase for turkey bacon: Not allowing turkey bacon to rest can make it soggy. Let it sit on paper towels to maintain crispiness before assembling.
• Assembling too early: If you prepare sliders in advance, the ingredients may become soggy. Add dressing just before serving for fresh taste and texture.

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

Reheating turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place one slider on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 30 seconds, checking if warm enough; add more time if necessary.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and heat sliders for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for turkey bacon in turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

You can use crispy turkey bacon or tempeh bacon as a healthier alternative while still adding that smoky flavor.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything except adding ranch dressing ahead of time. Assemble just before serving for the best results.

How do I customize my turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?

Feel free to add extra toppings such as pickles, jalapeños, or different types of cheese based on your preference!

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

These sliders pair nicely with coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful take on classic barbecue flavors, perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite toppings and sauces, making them suitable for everyone’s taste buds. Give these sliders a try at your next cookout!