Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft slider bun filled with tender, slow-cooked chicken that’s been perfectly seasoned with ranch flavors, then mixed with creamy cheese and crispy bacon bits. That’s the experience of enjoying Crack Chicken Sliders, a dish that combines the comforting tastes of home-cooked ingredients with the convenience of a mini sandwich.
This recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight. When served, each slider presents a tempting glimpse of its creamy, cheesy filling, with a sprinkle of parsley adding a touch of elegance. It’s the perfect dish for any gathering, ensuring smiles and satisfied appetites. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, a friendly get-together, or seeking the ideal snack for game day, these sliders promise to be a hit, offering a harmonious blend of flavors that are irresistibly inviting.
Cheesy Bacon and Ranch Chicken Mini Sandwiches
Ingredients:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
12 slider buns
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon dried parsley for garnish
Directions:
Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker and sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the top.
Add the cream cheese in chunks on top of the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
Shred the chicken in the slow cooker and mix it with the cream cheese and the juices that have accumulated. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Split your slider buns and fill them with the chicken mixture.
Combine melted butter and garlic powder. Brush the tops of the slider buns with the butter mixture. Sprinkle dried parsley over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, until the sliders are heated through and the tops are golden.
Serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 4-8 hours | Total Time: 4 hours, 10 minutes to 8 hours, 15 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 12 sliders
Frequently Asked Questions about Crack Chicken Sliders
Q: Can I make Crack Chicken Sliders in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken mixture, assemble the sliders, and bake as directed.
Q: What can I use instead of ranch seasoning mix?
A: If you don’t have a ranch seasoning mix, you can make a simple homemade version using dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper mixed together.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely, chicken thighs can be a juicier alternative to breasts and work well in this recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: To make a healthier version, you can use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and lean turkey bacon. You can also serve the chicken mixture on whole-wheat slider buns or lettuce wraps for a lower-carb option.
Q: Is it possible to cook the chicken mixture in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can use an Instant Pot. Cook the chicken on high pressure for about 15 minutes with a natural release. Shred the chicken, then use the sauté function to mix in the cheeses and bacon until combined.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked chicken mixture?
A: Yes, the cooked chicken mixture freezes well. Cool it completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with Crack Chicken Sliders?
A: Serve these sliders with sides like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, a green salad, or vegetable sticks for a balanced meal.
Q: Can I make this recipe without bacon?
A: Yes, the recipe can be made without bacon for a vegetarian version. Consider adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor similar to bacon.
Q: How do I prevent the bottom of the sliders from getting soggy?
A: To prevent soggy bottoms, make sure to slightly toast the inside of the slider buns before assembling or bake the sliders just long enough so that they are heated through without the mixture soaking into the bun.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the chicken mixture?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables such as diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
