Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you! If you’re looking for the ultimate party food that doubles as a cozy weeknight dinner, you absolutely need to try these Crack Chicken Sliders. The first time I whipped these up, I wasn’t prepared for how quickly they’d disappear! My family erupted into cheers, and I was left wishing I’d made a double batch. These sliders are not just delicious; they’re a total crowd-pleaser, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Picture this: juicy shredded chicken mingling with creamy ranch, coated in melty cheese and crispy bacon. It’s the kind of flavor explosion that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds—and thirds! I love making these for game nights or casual get-togethers because they’re super easy to throw together and everyone loves them. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover chicken. Let me tell you, you definitely want to give these a try!
What’s in Crack Chicken Sliders?
Let’s break down this mouthwatering goodness so you know exactly what you’re working with:
Shredded Cooked Chicken: This is the star of the show! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or any leftover chicken you have on hand.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This gives that zingy, delicious flavor that really sets these sliders apart. I usually grab the Hidden Valley brand, but any ranch seasoning will do!
Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy richness that binds everything together. Make sure it’s softened so it blends in easily!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharp bite, elevating the overall flavor. Feel free to get a little fancy and use a mix of cheeses!
Crispy Cooked Bacon: Because everything is better with bacon, right? I love using thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch.
Sliced Green Onions: They add a fresh kick to the mixture and a bit of color. You can never have too much green onion!
Slider Buns: I use soft, pillowy slider buns that can hold all that delicious filling. You can find slider-specific buns or just cut regular ones in half.
Butter: This will definitely make these sliders extra indulgent. You can use regular butter or even a buttery spread.
Garlic Powder: This adds a hint of savory goodness. Feel free to get creative; fresh garlic would work too!
Fresh Parsley: It’s optional, but a sprinkle on top makes it look fancy! Plus, it adds a fresh burst of flavor.
Is Crack Chicken Sliders Good for You?
Now, let’s be real. These sliders are definitely on the indulgent side, but hey, we all need a little comfort food sometimes!
Shredded Cooked Chicken: Packed with protein, chicken is a healthy base for these sliders. It’s filling and keeps you satisfied longer.
Cream Cheese: Yes, it’s a bit high in fat, but it also adds richness and a decadent texture that makes these sliders so appealing.
Bacon: Crispy, delicious bacon is quite high in sodium, so just keep that in mind if you’re watching your salt intake.
Green Onions: These are a great way to sneak in some veggies! They’re low-calorie and add vitamins.
In moderation, these sliders can fit into a balanced diet. Just be sure to enjoy them with a side of veggies or a salad to up the health factor!
How to Make Crack Chicken Sliders?
Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to whip up these scrumptious sliders:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)—we want it nice and cozy for the sliders.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ranch seasoning mix, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and sliced green onions. Stir until it’s all beautifully combined and creamy.
3. Slice your slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the halves connected. Place the bottom half in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Spoon that luscious chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of the slider buns. Don’t be shy—load it up!
5. Place the top halves of the slider buns back on top. It’s like a little sandwich hug!
6. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and garlic powder together. Brush this buttery goodness generously over the top of those buns.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melting like a dream.
8. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool slightly. For an extra touch, sprinkle with fresh parsley and some sliced green onions for garnish.
Slider Variations and Serving Suggestions
You know what’s great about these sliders? You can easily customize them to suit your taste! For a spicy twist, consider adding some jalapeños. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
These sliders are perfect warm but can also be served at room temperature, making them fabulous for potlucks. Try pairing them with a refreshing coleslaw or a side salad for your next gathering, and watch them disappear!
I can’t wait for you to dive into this recipe! I promise once you try these Crack Chicken Sliders, they’ll quickly become a household favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your slider adventures with me!
