Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders Recipe

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Cook Time: 40 minutes

Original recipe (1X) yields 12 servings

Ingredients

• 8 strips bacon
• 12 Hawaiian dinner rolls
• 1 pound shredded cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup prepared ranch dressing
• 8 ounces shredded colby-Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 teaspoons ranch seasoning

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350F (180C).
2. Place the bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain the bacon on paper towels and crumble it once it cools enough to handle.
3. Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully cut the slider rolls in half horizontally. Set the tops of the rolls aside and place the bottom halves on a rimmed baking tray.
4. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the prepared ranch dressing until the chicken is evenly coated.
5. Spread the chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of the rolls on the tray.
6. Top the chicken with shredded colby-Jack cheese and the crumbled bacon.
7. Place the top halves of the rolls over the filling.
8. Melt the butter in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Stir the ranch seasoning into the melted butter.
9. Using a pastry brush, brush the ranch butter over the tops of the slider rolls.
10. Cover the tray with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the filling is hot, the buns are golden, and the cheese has melted.
12. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 399
• Total Fat: 24g (30% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (48% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 73mg (24% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 668mg (29% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 25g (9% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 21g (42% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 228mg (18% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (14% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 210mg (4% Daily Value)

The History of Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders are a modern twist on classic American comfort food. Their roots trace back to the rise of sliders in the United States during the late 20th century, which were small sandwiches designed for casual gatherings and parties. The combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing became popular in the early 2000s, coinciding with the nationwide obsession with ranch-flavored dishes. These sliders emerged as a convenient, flavorful option for entertaining, blending the creamy tang of ranch with savory bacon and tender shredded chicken.

Regional Variations

While Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders are enjoyed nationwide, certain regions in the U.S. have added their unique touch. In the South, for example, sliders often feature a slightly spicier ranch or smoked bacon to enhance the rich, savory flavors. The Midwest sometimes incorporates cheddar instead of Colby Jack cheese for a sharper taste, while West Coast versions may include avocado slices or a touch of chipotle for a modern fusion twist. The base of Hawaiian-style sweet rolls is a constant, providing a subtle sweetness that balances the savory ingredients.

How They Differ from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional chicken sandwiches or burgers, these sliders are small, bite-sized, and designed to be served as appetizers or party fare. The combination of ranch dressing and ranch-seasoned butter brushed on top sets them apart from other slider varieties. While a BLT slider focuses mainly on bacon, lettuce, and tomato, and a barbecue chicken slider relies on smoky sauce, Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders emphasize creamy tanginess, cheesy richness, and the interplay between sweet rolls and savory fillings.

Typical Serving Occasions

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders are commonly served at casual gatherings, game-day events, and holiday parties. Their small size makes them ideal for buffets and finger-food spreads. Many restaurants featuring American comfort cuisine include them as appetizer specials or on happy hour menus. They are also popular at backyard barbecues, where their combination of flavors appeals to both kids and adults, and their easy assembly allows for quick service during large gatherings.

Interesting Facts

Despite being a relatively recent invention, Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders have become a staple in American pop culture food trends. Ranch dressing, originally invented in the 1950s by a California plumber-turned-cook, is now one of the most popular condiments in the country, making it a natural pairing for sliders. Additionally, Hawaiian rolls, created by a bakery in Hawaii in the 1950s, were popularized on the mainland for their unique sweetness, which complements the salty and savory flavors of bacon and chicken. Fun fact: sliders were once called "mini burgers" and were often associated with White Castle, but today the term has expanded to include a variety of small, creative sandwiches.

FAQ about Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders Recipe

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