Crack Chicken Sliders Recipe – Easy, Cheesy, and Perfect for Game Day!

Sliders have become a staple for gatherings, offering a quick and delicious way to feed a crowd. Among the numerous slider variations, Crack Chicken Sliders stand out as a favorite, combining the creamy richness of cheese with the savory notes of chicken, bacon, and ranch. This dish is perfect for casual get-togethers, game days, or any event where you want to serve up something irresistibly tasty. In this article, we’ll explore the recipe in depth, break down the steps, discuss common questions, and provide tips for the perfect sliders every time.

Ingredients and Quantities

To make a batch of 12 Crack Chicken Sliders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 slider buns – Soft, mini buns that serve as the foundation for the sliders.
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded – You can use rotisserie chicken or cook your own chicken breast.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – The creaminess of this ingredient binds the filling together.
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – Adds that signature ranch flavor to the dish.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The cheesy component that makes these sliders extra indulgent.
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch to the sliders.
• ½ cup green onions, chopped – A fresh touch that complements the richness of the cheese and bacon.
• 6 tbsp butter, melted – Brushed on top of the buns to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
• 1 tbsp ranch seasoning (for topping) – A flavorful touch to the butter topping.
• 1 tbsp dried parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and subtle herb flavor to the sliders.

Directions and Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s ready to bake the sliders as soon as they’re assembled.
2. Prepare the baking dish:
   Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent the sliders from sticking.
3. Mix the filling:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, cheddar cheese, bacon, and chopped green onions. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined. The mixture should be creamy and evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the sliders:
   Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves of the buns into the prepared baking dish. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the buns. Once the filling is evenly distributed, place the top halves of the buns over the filling.
5. Prepare the butter topping:
   In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the additional 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning and dried parsley (if using). This butter mixture will give the slider buns a flavorful and crispy finish. Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the buns.
6. Bake the sliders:
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the sliders to warm through. After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the buns are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and enjoy:
   Once the sliders are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These Crack Chicken Sliders are best enjoyed warm and gooey!

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can certainly experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. While cheddar cheese is the most common choice for this recipe, you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of a spicy kick. Just ensure that whatever cheese you use melts well and complements the other ingredients.

2. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, Crack Chicken Sliders can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for parties and gatherings. Assemble the sliders as instructed, but don’t bake them right away. Instead, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as instructed. You may need to add an extra few minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.

3. How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but the buns may lose some of their crispiness.

4. Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, these sliders freeze well! Once baked, let the sliders cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

5. What’s the best type of chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken is a great, time-saving option for this recipe, as it’s already cooked and easy to shred. However, you can also use leftover grilled chicken, baked chicken breast, or even canned chicken in a pinch. If you’re cooking chicken specifically for this recipe, baking or poaching chicken breasts is a good option for tender, juicy meat.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make gluten-free Crack Chicken Sliders, simply swap out the regular slider buns for gluten-free buns or rolls. Ensure that the ranch seasoning mix you’re using is gluten-free as well, as some brands may contain hidden gluten.

7. What can I serve alongside Crack Chicken Sliders?

Crack Chicken Sliders are hearty on their own, but they pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a simple side salad, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or potato chips. For a more substantial meal, you could also pair them with roasted vegetables or a pasta salad.

8. Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for a keto or low-carb diet. Simply use keto-friendly buns or serve the filling over a bed of lettuce or in lettuce wraps. The chicken, cheese, and bacon filling is naturally low in carbs, so the main adjustment is swapping out the buns.

9. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Certainly! Turkey bacon can be used as a substitute for regular bacon in this recipe if you’re looking for a lower-fat option. Just keep in mind that turkey bacon may not have as much crispiness or flavor as regular bacon, but it will still provide a delicious, smoky element to the sliders.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that will make any gathering a hit. The combination of chicken, ranch, bacon, and cheddar cheese creates a satisfying filling that pairs wonderfully with the soft slider buns. Whether you’re serving these sliders for a game day, potluck, or casual dinner, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite.

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