Crack Chicken Sliders Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of creamy, cheesy chicken sandwiched between soft, buttery rolls. These Crack Chicken Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, potlucks, or even a fun family dinner. The smoky bacon, rich cream cheese, and zesty ranch seasoning come together to create a flavor explosion that's as addictive as the name suggests.

this Recipe

I first made these sliders for a family BBQ, thinking they'd just be a fun side dish. Instead, they stole the show, with everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Now, they’ve become a staple in my kitchen whenever I need a quick and easy dish to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Crack Chicken Sliders

Prepare to fall in love with the ultimate finger food. These sliders are not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to prepare.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a casual game night or a festive celebration, these sliders are always a hit. Their bite-sized portion makes them a convenient and mess-free option.
• Easy and Quick: Using shredded rotisserie chicken as the base, these sliders come together in just 30 minutes. It’s hard to beat such a delicious yet hassle-free recipe!
• Versatile: You can customize them to suit your tastes – swap the protein, adjust the toppings, or play with the spices.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: They’re just as good when reheated, so you can prepare them in advance for stress-free hosting.

Once you’ve tried these, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for feeding a hungry crowd. Let’s dive into what makes these sliders so special.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these sliders lies in the simple, flavorful ingredients. Here's everything you need to create this masterpiece:

• Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver for this recipe, but leftover cooked chicken or even canned chicken works just as well.
• Cream Cheese: The base of the "crack" filling, softened cream cheese makes everything rich and creamy. Let it sit at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Ranch Seasoning: A packet of dry ranch dressing mix infuses the filling with bold, zesty flavor.
• Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty punch to every bite.
• Cheddar Cheese: A generous layer of shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully over the sliders, tying all the flavors together.
• Hawaiian Rolls: The slight sweetness of Hawaiian slider rolls pairs perfectly with the savory filling. You can use any soft dinner roll if you prefer.
• Butter Topping: A blend of melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley brushed over the tops adds a glossy finish and extra flavor.

No special equipment is required – just a baking dish and some foil to keep the sliders warm and gooey.

How To Make Crack Chicken Sliders

Making these sliders is as simple as layering ingredients and popping them in the oven. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your sliders turn out perfectly every time.

1. Prepare the Filling: Start by combining softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a packet of ranch seasoning in a large bowl. Mix until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
2. Layer the Sliders: Slice your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact. Place the bottom half in a greased baking dish. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the rolls, then sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top. Place the top half of the rolls back on.
3. Add the Butter Topping: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the sliders. This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives the sliders their golden, buttery crust.
4. Bake to Perfection: Cover the sliders with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing them apart. Serve them warm for the best gooey, cheesy experience.

From start to finish, these sliders take just 30 minutes – perfect for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.

Storage Options

One of the best things about Crack Chicken Sliders is how well they store. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerate: Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
• Freeze: Wrap individual sliders in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake in the oven until warmed through.
• Reheat: For the best results, warm the sliders in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes. If using a microwave, heat in 20-second intervals to avoid drying out the rolls.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are some creative ideas to suit your taste buds:

• Switch the Protein: Try using shredded pork, turkey, or even tofu for a fun twist.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños, sriracha, or pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for a mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach. The creamy ranch and cheese combo will still shine!
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rolls and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free as well.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of Mexican cheeses for unique flavor profiles.

No matter how you customize them, these sliders are bound to impress.

With their irresistible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, Crack Chicken Sliders are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Serve them alongside a fresh salad, some crunchy chips, or simply on their own – they’ll disappear in no time! Give this recipe a try and watch them become a new favorite in your home.

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