Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Grilled barbecue chicken is a summertime classic, and these Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders take that classic flavor and turn it into a fun, handheld delight. Perfect for summer gatherings, game days, or family dinners, these sliders are not only easy to make but also bursting with smoky-sweet flavors. The combination of crispy turkey bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh veggies makes each bite memorable. Youβll love how simple yet satisfying this recipe is!
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these sliders in no time.
- Flavorsome Fusion: The mix of BBQ chicken with ranch and turkey bacon creates a taste explosion that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Serving: Ideal for parties, picnics, or casual weeknight dinners, these sliders fit any occasion.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out ingredients or adjust toppings based on your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love sliders! Theyβre easy to hold and packed with flavors that appeal to all ages.

Tools and Preparation
To make your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders, youβll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure that everything goes smoothly while cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skillet
- Zip-top bag or bowl
- Paper towels
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides the perfect smoky flavor to the chicken, enhancing its taste.
- Skillet: Ideal for cooking turkey bacon evenly until crispy.
- Zip-top bag or bowl: Makes marinating your chicken easy and mess-free.
- Knife: Necessary for slicing your ingredients uniformly for even cooking.
Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to create these delicious Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders:
For the Chicken Sliders
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into 4 inch pieces
- 1 pack Hawaiian rolls, 12 count
- 8 slices Turkey Bacon
- 2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/4 red onion, sliced
- 12 squares Colby jack cheese, cracker-cut size is perfect
How to Make Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Marinate chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl with 1 cup barbecue sauce.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally 4 hours or overnight).
Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon
- While chicken is marinating, cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over low heat until crispy.
- Rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Prepare a grill to medium heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken about 3 minutes per side, basting with an additional 1/2 cup barbecue sauce as it cooks.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
- Slice the Hawaiian buns horizontally for sandwiches.
- Spread mayonnaise on the bottom buns.
- Add grilled chicken followed by a bit more barbecue sauce on top.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Top each piece of chicken with cheese slices.
- Add crispy turkey bacon, red onions, and shredded lettuce.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the lettuce.
Step 6: Serve
- Place the top buns on each slider.
- Slice them into individual sliders and serve immediately!
Enjoy your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders at your next gathering!
How to Serve Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Serving Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders is a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering. These sliders are not only tasty but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions.
Casual Gatherings
- Game Day: These sliders are a hit during game day parties. Pair them with chips and dip for a fun snack spread.
- Picnics: Easy to transport, these sliders make an ideal addition to your picnic basket. Just keep them chilled until serving.
- Family BBQs: Serve these sliders at your next barbecue alongside some refreshing drinks and salads for a complete meal.
Special Occasions
- Birthday Parties: They are great finger foods that guests will love. Consider adding fun decorations to the platter.
- Holiday Celebrations: Make these sliders part of your holiday feast. They can be a lighter option amidst heavier dishes.
- Potlucks: Perfect for sharing, you can make a large batch and let everyone enjoy the smoky flavors.
How to Perfect Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Perfecting your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders enhances their flavor and makes them even more enjoyable. Here are some tips to make them shine.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce, quality turkey bacon, and homemade ranch dressing can elevate the taste significantly.
- Marinate longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring juicy results.
- Grill with care: Monitor the grill heat closely. Cooking chicken too quickly can lead to dryness; aim for even grilling.
- Customize toppings: Experiment with different toppings like avocado or jalapeΓ±os for added flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Pairing side dishes with your Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders can enhance the meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Coleslaw β A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders perfectly.
- Potato Salad β Creamy potato salad is a classic side that complements smoky flavors well.
- Corn on the Cob β Grilled corn adds a sweet touch that pairs nicely with barbecue dishes.
- Chips and Salsa β A fun and easy option, chips with salsa bring crunch and zest to your meal.
- Fruit Salad β A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet counterpoint to savory sliders.
- Baked Beans β Sweet and savory baked beans are a hearty side that fits right in with barbecue fare.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes is key to making the perfect Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
-
Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees for juicy results.
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Forgetting the Sauce Layers: Adding barbecue sauce only at the end can miss flavor opportunities. Baste while grilling and add more on the slider for extra taste.
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Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale buns or wilted lettuce can ruin your sliders. Always use fresh ingredients for a delightful taste and texture.
-
Rushing Assembly: Skipping steps in assembly can lead to messy sliders. Take your time layering each ingredient for a beautiful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and bake wrapped sliders for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping until warm, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders that might help you enjoy this recipe even more!
How do I make Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders spicier?
You can add jalapeΓ±os or spicy barbecue sauce to elevate the heat level of your sliders.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor.
What toppings work well with Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Feel free to customize with avocado, pickles, or different cheeses based on your preference!
How do I store leftover Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are not just delicious; theyβre also versatile! You can customize them with your favorite toppings and sauces, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether itβs a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these sliders will surely impress everyone at your table. Give them a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders
Turkey Bacon Ranch BBQ Chicken Sliders are a delightful twist on a summer classic, transforming grilled barbecue chicken into handheld goodness. These sliders combine tender, marinated chicken with crispy turkey bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh veggies for an explosion of flavor in every bite. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or casual dinners, these sliders are not only easy to make but also customizable to suit any palate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 pack Hawaiian rolls (12 count)
- 8 slices turkey bacon
- 2 cups barbecue sauce (divided)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/4 red onion (sliced)
- 12 squares Colby jack cheese
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl with 1 cup of barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight).
- Cook turkey bacon in a skillet over low heat until crispy; set aside on paper towels.
- Grill marinated chicken over medium heat for about 3 minutes per side, brushing with an additional Β½ cup of barbecue sauce until cooked through (internal temp of 165Β°F).
- Slice Hawaiian rolls horizontally and spread mayonnaise on the bottom buns.
- Layer each bun with grilled chicken, additional barbecue sauce, cheese slices, turkey bacon, red onions, shredded lettuce, and ranch dressing before placing the top buns on.
- Slice into individual sliders and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 80mg