Crack Chicken Sliders Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, and Delicious Sliders

If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer or dinner that’s sure to please a crowd, Crack Chicken Sliders are the answer. Imagine juicy chicken, creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and the irresistible flavor of ranch seasoning—all piled between soft, buttery slider buns. These sliders are undeniably delicious, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a hit whether you’re hosting a game day party, serving dinner to the family, or just craving something comforting and tasty. In this post, we’re going to break down every step of how to create these cheesy, savory sliders, ensuring that you make the best Crack Chicken Sliders every time.

What Are Crack Chicken Sliders?

Crack Chicken Sliders are a variation of the popular “Crack Chicken” recipe that has taken the internet by storm. Crack Chicken is a slow-cooked dish made with chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon, known for its creamy, cheesy, and addictively delicious flavor. This dish is typically served as a dip, but when you put it between slider buns, it transforms into an irresistible handheld meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The Crack Chicken Sliders bring all the same creamy goodness but in an easy-to-serve slider form that’s ideal for parties, dinners, and snacks.

Why Are They Called Crack Chicken?

The name “Crack Chicken” comes from how addictively tasty the dish is. The combination of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon creates an irresistible flavor that people can’t get enough of. The term “crack” here is meant to be humorous and describes how you might find yourself going back for more, just like the addictive nature of certain snacks.

Ingredients You Need for Crack Chicken Sliders

To make the perfect Crack Chicken Sliders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – This is the base of your sliders and gives you that juicy, tender chicken filling.
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – This adds that signature ranch flavor that’s so beloved in Crack Chicken recipes.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – The cream cheese is what makes the chicken mixture creamy and rich.
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6-8 strips) – Bacon brings in a smoky, salty crunch that complements the creamy chicken perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The sharpness of cheddar cheese adds a great flavor dimension to the sliders.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella cheese makes the filling extra gooey and cheesy.
• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (optional) – Green onions add a fresh, slightly pungent flavor that balances the richness of the other ingredients.

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns – Soft, fluffy buns that will hold the delicious filling together.
• 2 tbsp butter, melted – The melted butter will be brushed on top of the buns to give them a golden, crispy finish.
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional) – Garlic powder adds extra flavor to the bun tops for a savory finish.

Instructions for Making Crack Chicken Sliders

Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions to make your Crack Chicken Sliders. These steps are simple and easy to follow, ensuring you get the perfect sliders every time.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken breasts. Add the cream cheese on top of the chicken. No need to mix; just let everything sit in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken will cook to perfection and will be very easy to shred.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, it should shred easily with two forks. Use the forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. This method allows the chicken to soak up all the flavorful cream cheese and ranch mixture.

Step 3: Add the Bacon and Cheese

To make your chicken mixture even more delicious, stir in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and green onions (if using). Let the mixture cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. The result will be a creamy, cheesy chicken mixture that’s packed with flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Sliders

While the chicken mixture is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half, keeping the bottom halves connected if you’re using a pack of buns that are attached. Place the bottom halves of the buns on a baking sheet.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Spoon a generous amount of the creamy Crack Chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns. Spread the mixture evenly, making sure each slider gets a good portion of the creamy, cheesy filling. Once you’ve added the chicken mixture, place the top halves of the buns on top.

Step 6: Top with Butter and Garlic Powder

Brush the tops of the slider buns with melted butter. If you like a little extra flavor, you can sprinkle garlic powder over the buttered tops of the buns. This adds a nice garlic flavor that complements the richness of the filling.

Step 7: Bake the Sliders

Cover the sliders with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. The buns should become golden brown and crispy on top, and the sliders should be heated through.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven, slice them, and serve them warm. These sliders are perfect for any occasion, and they are sure to disappear quickly!

Why You’ll Love Crack Chicken Sliders

• Cheesy and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella makes the chicken filling decadently creamy.
• Bacon: Adding crumbled bacon to the filling brings an irresistible smoky, salty crunch that complements the other flavors.
• Easy to Make: The slow cooker does all the hard work, and assembling the sliders is quick and simple.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a party, these sliders are perfect for feeding a crowd.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crack Chicken Sliders

1. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the sliders. This makes for a quick and easy meal when you’re short on time.
2. Add Extra Toppings: If you want to make your sliders even more delicious, try adding extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, or sliced tomatoes for a fresh crunch.
3. Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re in a rush, substitute the chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the ranch seasoning and cream cheese before adding the bacon and cheese.
4. Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crack Chicken Sliders

1. Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe? Yes! You can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts with boneless skinless thighs or even rotisserie chicken. The key is to ensure the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

2. Can I make Crack Chicken Sliders ahead of time? Yes! You can make the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the sliders and bake them.

3. How do I store leftovers? Store leftover Crack Chicken Sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. Can I freeze Crack Chicken Sliders? Yes! You can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Sliders are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy chicken, cheesy goodness, and crispy bacon all in one delicious bite. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd at a party, looking for a quick dinner, or just craving a snack. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and mouthwatering flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to try it out for your next gathering or meal!

Print