Crack Chicken Sliders

Introduction

Crack Chicken Sliders are an irresistible, savory treat that brings together a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors. These sliders are made with tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, and melted cheese, all nestled between soft slider buns. With a creamy ranch dressing base and a touch of spice, these sliders are packed with flavor in every bite.

I first made these sliders for a game day gathering, and they were a huge hit with everyone. The combination of the creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare – you can make a big batch in no time, and it’s always the first dish to disappear!

Whether you’re hosting a party, having a casual family dinner, or just craving something comforting, these Crack Chicken Sliders are sure to satisfy. They’re the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, especially when you want to impress a crowd with minimal effort.

Perfect for:

• Game day
• Family gatherings
• Parties and potlucks
• Weeknight dinners
• Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Sliders

Here’s why Crack Chicken Sliders will become your go-to snack or meal:

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese makes these sliders incredibly flavorful and addictive.
• Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients, these sliders are quick to assemble and bake, making them perfect for busy days or unexpected guests.
• Cheesy and Creamy: The cream cheese and melted cheddar make the sliders extra creamy and cheesy, adding a comforting element to each bite.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a meal with family, these sliders are great for sharing and can be easily doubled or halved based on your needs.
• Customizable: You can add extras like jalapeños or extra veggies to personalize these sliders to your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 12 sliders
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 17g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Crack Chicken Sliders:

• 2 lbs chicken breast, cooked and shredded (or rotisserie chicken)
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6-8 slices)
• 12 slider buns
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Shredded Chicken: Using cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken) makes this recipe quick and easy to prepare, while still providing a delicious base for the sliders.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds creaminess and richness to the chicken mixture, giving the sliders a decadent texture.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory, salty crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken mixture.
• Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning mix brings a tangy, herby flavor that elevates the sliders and ties all the ingredients together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Crack Chicken Sliders:

Prepare the Chicken Mixture:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook and shred the chicken breasts (or use rotisserie chicken). Set aside.
3. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Prepare the Slider Buns: Slice the slider buns in half, keeping the tops and bottoms attached. Arrange the bottom half of the buns in the prepared baking dish.
5. Assemble the Sliders: Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of the buns. Place the top half of the buns over the chicken mixture, pressing down gently to compress the sliders.
6. Add Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with Dijon mustard (if using) and brush it over the top of the slider buns.
7. Bake: Bake the sliders in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the buns are golden and the cheese is melted.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the sliders cool for a few minutes before slicing them into individual portions. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Sliders

Crack Chicken Sliders are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• As a Main Dish: Serve these sliders with a side of fries, potato salad, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• For Game Day or Parties: These sliders make the perfect appetizer or snack at any gathering. Serve them on a platter for easy sharing.
• For Family Dinner: Enjoy them as a quick weeknight dinner, perfect for feeding the family without much fuss.
• With Dipping Sauces: Serve these sliders with extra ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauces for added flavor.

Additional Tips for Crack Chicken Sliders

Here are some tips to ensure your Crack Chicken Sliders are perfect every time:

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even quicker preparation, use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Try adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños to the chicken mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Make It Spicy: For a spicier kick, add hot sauce, jalapeños, or chili flakes to the chicken mixture.
• Don’t Overfill the Sliders: Be careful not to overload the sliders with too much chicken mixture. Keep a generous but even amount to ensure they bake properly.

Recipe Variations for Crack Chicken Sliders

Here are 10 variations you can try for Crack Chicken Sliders:

• Buffalo Crack Chicken Sliders: Add buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy, tangy twist on the classic.
• BBQ Crack Chicken Sliders: Swap ranch seasoning for BBQ seasoning and add a little BBQ sauce to the chicken mixture for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy Crack Chicken Sliders: Mix in chopped jalapeños or chili powder for an extra spicy version of these sliders.
• Cheddar and Bacon Crack Chicken Sliders: Use extra crispy bacon and more shredded cheddar cheese for an even cheesier, bacon-packed version.
• Avocado Crack Chicken Sliders: Top the sliders with slices of avocado for a creamy and fresh addition.
• Philly Cheesesteak Crack Chicken Sliders: Add sautéed onions and bell peppers to the chicken mixture for a Philly cheesesteak-inspired version.
• Crispy Crack Chicken Sliders: For an extra crunch, bake the sliders with a layer of crushed potato chips or cornflakes on top.
• Gluten-Free Crack Chicken Sliders: Use gluten-free slider buns to make these sliders gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Crack Chicken Sliders: Replace the chicken with cooked quinoa or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Crack Chicken Sliders with Ranch Pickles: Add a layer of ranch-flavored pickles inside the sliders for an extra tangy crunch.

Freezing and Storage for Crack Chicken Sliders

• Freezing: You can freeze assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Crack Chicken Sliders

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Crack Chicken Sliders easier:

• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: A baking dish of this size is ideal for assembling and baking the sliders.
• Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to slice the slider buns evenly and easily.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl will make it easier to combine all the ingredients for the chicken mixture.
• Brush for Butter: A pastry brush helps to evenly spread the melted butter over the buns.
• Serving Platter: Use a large platter for serving the sliders to make them look extra inviting.

Frequently Asked Questions for Crack Chicken Sliders

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, using rotisserie chicken will save you time and still result in delicious sliders.
2. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the sliders and refrigerate them before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
3. Can I freeze these sliders?
   Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly and bake from frozen when ready to serve.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or even gouda, for a different flavor profile.

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Conclusion

Crack Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that everyone will love. Easy to make and full of flavor, these sliders are a great option for any occasion, from casual family dinners to game day parties. With simple ingredients and customizable options, they’re sure to be a hit with your crowd every time.

This recipe is as effortless as it is delicious, making it perfect for everything from quick weeknight meals to festive get-togethers. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or as party appetizers, these sliders are sure to please.

I’d love to see how your Crack Chicken Sliders turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!