Introduction to Crack Chicken Sliders
What Are Crack Chicken Sliders?
Crack Chicken Sliders are a mouthwatering, easy-to-make snack that combines creamy cheese, savory chicken, and crispy bacon, all layered on soft Hawaiian rolls. This recipe offers a rich flavor profile, with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese creating a creamy, cheesy texture. These sliders are ideal for parties, game day, or any gathering where comfort food is desired.
Whether served as a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer, Crack Chicken Sliders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. They are perfect for anyone who loves a satisfying meal that can be eaten by hand and packed with flavors. Learn more about delicious party-friendly sliders here.
Why Are They So Popular?
Crack Chicken Sliders have gained immense popularity for their ease of preparation and unbeatable taste. The savory filling, paired with a buttery, cheesy topping, makes them irresistibly delicious. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—adding in your favorite meats, vegetables, or even switching up the cheese can take the recipe in different directions, making it perfect for various tastes. The combination of chicken and bacon with cheese and ranch mix is a flavor-packed winner every time. Want to try more crowd-pleasing recipes? Check out this gourmet slider collection for inspiration!
Ingredients and Basic Recipe
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Crack Chicken Sliders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Diet: Diabetic
Description
These Crack Chicken Sliders are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch-flavored cheese, all sandwiched between soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls. Topped with a buttery, cheesy crust and garnished with fresh chives, these sliders are the perfect appetizer or dinner for any occasion. Packed with flavor, they’re bound to be a crowd favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package sweet Hawaiian rolls (12 rolls)
- 1/4 cup salted sweet cream butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, onion powder, black pepper, and chopped green onions. Stir until smooth and fully mixed.
Add the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Assemble the Sliders:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cut the package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally (keeping the rolls intact as a whole).
Place the bottom half of the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls.
Place the top half of the rolls on top of the chicken mixture, pressing down gently.
Prepare the Butter Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and grated parmesan cheese.
Pour this butter mixture over the top of the sliders, spreading it evenly with a spoon or brush.
Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the sliders are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Once the sliders are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Garnish with fresh chives for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Slice along the roll seams and serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra cheesy version, you can add more shredded cheddar cheese to the top of the chicken mixture before baking.
- If you prefer, you can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken breasts to save time.
- These sliders can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (1/12 of the total recipe)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Crack Chicken Sliders
Step-by-Step Basic Recipe
- Cook and Shred the Chicken:
Begin by cooking the chicken breasts. You can grill, bake, or boil them until fully cooked. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. - Prepare the Creamy Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, onion powder, black pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions. Stir until smooth and creamy. - Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the sweet Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves intact. Place the bottom half in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. - Spread the Chicken Mixture:
Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly on top of the bottom roll layer. - Add the Top Layer:
Place the top half of the rolls on top of the chicken mixture. - Prepare the Buttery Topping:
Melt the salted sweet cream butter and mix in the grated parmesan cheese. Brush this mixture evenly over the top of the rolls. - Bake and Serve:
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.
Advanced Techniques for a Perfect Dish
How to Get the Perfect Texture for Sliders
The key to a perfect Crack Chicken Slider is achieving the ideal balance between the crispy, golden top and the creamy interior. To do this:
- Use fresh rolls: Always use fresh Hawaiian rolls. Day-old rolls can become too soft and soggy when baking.
- Toast the top: For extra crispiness, toast the top of the rolls slightly before adding the chicken mixture and baking. This creates a great contrast in texture.
- Let the dish rest: After baking, let the sliders rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into them. This helps the cheesy filling set and prevents the sliders from falling apart.
Flavor Variations to Enhance the Dish
- Add some heat: Spice up the sliders by adding jalapeños, buffalo sauce, or hot sauce to the chicken filling.
- Change the cheese: Swap cheddar cheese with a combination of mozzarella and pepper jack for an extra flavorful kick.
- Incorporate vegetables: Add finely chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach to boost flavor and nutrition.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Maintenance and Storage Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover Crack Chicken Sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing to prevent condensation. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating the Sliders
To reheat refrigerated sliders, wrap them in foil and place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen sliders, bake at the same temperature for 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave them, though baking tends to preserve the texture better.
Dietary Adaptations and Variations
Making the Sliders Healthier
- Low-fat version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat ranch dressing mix.
- Gluten-free option: Opt for gluten-free rolls and ensure that the ranch dressing mix is gluten-free.
Vegan/Vegetarian Adaptations
- Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or even jackfruit.
- Vegan: Use vegan cream cheese, dairy-free cheddar, and non-dairy butter to make this recipe completely plant-based.
Seasonal Flavor Twists
- Autumn variation: Incorporate roasted pumpkin or butternut squash in place of the chicken for a seasonal twist.
- Summer option: Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and corn for a fresh, summer slider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling and assemble the sliders up to a day in advance. Store the unbaked sliders in the refrigerator and bake them the day you plan to serve them.
Can I Make These Sliders with Other Meats?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the chicken with shredded beef, turkey, or even pulled pork for a different flavor profile. Each meat adds a unique taste while maintaining the creamy texture.
How Do I Make These Sliders Spicier?
To add spice, try mixing in some diced jalapeños, sriracha, or cayenne pepper into the chicken mixture before baking. Adjust the level of heat to your preference.
Conclusion and Serving Suggestions
Why You Should Try Crack Chicken Sliders Today
Crack Chicken Sliders are a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and flavor. They are sure to be the star of your next party, family gathering, or even a simple weeknight dinner. With their creamy chicken filling and golden, buttery top, these sliders are guaranteed to become a crowd favorite.
Best Side Dishes to Pair with Crack Chicken Sliders
- Crispy fries: Serve your sliders with a side of crispy homemade fries or sweet potato fries.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw balances the richness of the sliders perfectly.
- Pickles: A side of dill pickles provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory sliders.
Give these Crack Chicken Sliders a try and bring flavor and excitement to your next meal!
