Ingredients:

• For the Sliders:
  • 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian rolls
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
  • 6-8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Topping:
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Rolls – Without separating the rolls, slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in a baking dish, and set the top half aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Filling

1. Layer the Ingredients – Spread the shredded chicken evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Add Bacon and Cheese – Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the chicken layer, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Drizzle Ranch Dressing – Drizzle the ranch dressing over the cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface for even flavor distribution.

Step 3: Add the Top Layer of Rolls

1. Place the Top Half of the Rolls – Gently place the top half of the rolls over the cheese and bacon layer to complete the sliders.

Step 4: Prepare and Add the Butter Topping

1. Mix the Butter Topping – In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Stir well to blend the flavors.
2. Brush the Topping – Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls. This will create a golden, flavorful crust as they bake.

Step 5: Bake the Sliders

1. Bake – Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
2. Remove Foil and Finish Baking – Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the tops of the rolls are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cut and Serve – Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Cut them into individual sliders and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts:

Serving Size: 1 slider (based on 12 sliders)

• Calories: ~300
• Total Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 14g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! While cheddar pairs well with ranch and bacon, feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat.

Q: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours. Wait to add the butter topping until just before baking.

Q: Are these sliders suitable for freezing?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator, add the butter topping, and bake as directed.

Q: What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
A: If you’re not a fan of ranch, you could use a creamy Caesar or even a barbecue sauce for a different flavor twist.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Sliders:

1. Use Softened Rolls – Hawaiian rolls are perfect because of their soft, slightly sweet flavor. If you prefer a savory bread, any soft dinner rolls will work.
2. Opt for Freshly Cooked Bacon – Freshly cooked bacon adds a great texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon, but the flavor may not be as robust.
3. Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor – Along with dried parsley, consider adding fresh chopped chives or green onions for an added pop of flavor and color.
4. Make it Extra Cheesy – For cheese lovers, feel free to increase the amount of cheddar or even mix in other types like gouda or Swiss for a creamier, richer flavor.
5. Try a BBQ Twist – Swap out ranch dressing for BBQ sauce and use smoked cheddar or gouda for a fun variation on this recipe.
6. Make It Spicy – If you enjoy a kick of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeños in the filling.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to keep the rolls from becoming soggy.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze any leftover sliders by wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge and then warm in the oven.
• Reheating Tips: When reheating, place the sliders in the oven to keep the rolls from becoming soggy and to ensure the cheese remelts evenly. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the rolls chewy.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Sliders are a guaranteed hit for any occasion, combining flavors that everyone loves in a fun and shareable form. These sliders are perfect for feeding a crowd, and their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for casual dining or a game day snack. The blend of chicken, bacon, cheese, and ranch, all sandwiched in soft Hawaiian rolls, results in a flavor-packed bite that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

This recipe’s versatility allows you to experiment with different cheeses, add herbs, or even make it spicier to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving these sliders as a main dish or as a party appetizer, they’re sure to disappear quickly! Give this recipe a try and enjoy the blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite.