Crack Chicken Sliders Recipe

There's nothing quite like a batch of warm, melty Crack Chicken Sliders fresh out of the oven. The savory combination of shredded chicken, creamy ranch, gooey cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning makes these sliders irresistibly delicious. Perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or even a quick dinner, they’ve become a favorite in our household.

this Recipe

I first discovered these sliders while looking for an easy way to feed a crowd, and they were an instant hit. The best part? They’re ready in under 30 minutes and are easily customizable to please any picky eater.

Why You'll Love These Crack Chicken Sliders

Get ready to fall head over heels for these tasty, pull-apart sliders. These aren’t just any ordinary sliders; they pack a punch of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

These sliders are the epitome of easy and quick. Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken speeds up the prep, making them ideal for busy weeknights or when you're short on time. Simply layer, bake, and enjoy a meal that tastes gourmet without the effort.

They're also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making them for a party or just a simple dinner at home, they adapt beautifully to any occasion. Plus, you can easily double the recipe if you have a large crowd to feed.

Not to mention, these sliders are perfectly portioned. Thanks to the slider buns, serving these up is a breeze. Each sandwich is handheld, making them convenient for casual meals or entertaining.

And if you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy goodness, these sliders are a must-try. The combination of shredded chicken mixed with ranch seasoning and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Crack Chicken Sliders lies in the thoughtful selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the deliciousness that makes this recipe so irresistible.

Slider Buns form the base of this recipe. Soft and slightly sweet, Hawaiian rolls or any dinner rolls are ideal. Their pillowy texture complements the savory filling, but you can use whole wheat or multigrain buns if you prefer.

Cooked Chicken is the star of the show. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here, saving you tons of time and effort. Just shred it finely, ensuring the pieces are bite-sized and easy to layer onto the buns.

Cream Cheese adds a rich, creamy texture to the chicken mixture. Make sure it’s softened so it blends well with the other ingredients. This creates the creamy base that binds everything together.

Ranch Seasoning infuses the sliders with a tangy, herby kick. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own blend using garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley. It’s the seasoning that gives these sliders their signature taste.

Shredded Cheese melts beautifully over the chicken. Cheddar and mozzarella make an excellent combo, with the sharpness of the cheddar balanced by the creamy melt of mozzarella. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends.

You’ll also need Butter to brush over the buns, mixed with a sprinkle of garlic powder. This adds a rich, golden finish to the top of the sliders, making them extra delicious and aromatic.

Lastly, make sure you have a baking dish large enough to fit your slider rolls snugly. A 9x13-inch dish usually works well for a standard package of buns.

How To Make These Crack Chicken Sliders

Creating these mouthwatering sliders is easier than you might think. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress everyone.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing your baking dish. This will help the sliders come out easily once baked.

Next, prepare the chicken mixture. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, and ranch seasoning. Mix until everything is well blended and creamy. If the cream cheese is too firm, microwave it for about 20 seconds to soften.

Slice your slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the buns attached as a sheet. Place the bottom half of the buns in your prepared baking dish. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the buns, making sure every bun gets a generous amount of filling.

Then, top with more shredded cheese. This is the step that gives you those ooey-gooey, melty layers that make these sliders so addictive. Place the top half of the buns over the filling.

Melt the butter and mix it with a bit of garlic powder. Brush this buttery goodness over the tops of the buns to add flavor and help them brown beautifully in the oven. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the buns are golden brown.

Total prep and cook time? Just under 30 minutes. Let the sliders cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving.

Storage Options

If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), these sliders store well. Refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps keep the buns from getting soggy and ensures the cheese stays melty.

For freezing, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

Meal prep tip: You can assemble the sliders a day ahead and store them covered in the fridge. Just brush with the butter mixture and bake when ready!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can tweak it to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.

Want a veggie version? Swap out the chicken for roasted or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. The creamy ranch and cheese combination pairs well with nearly any veggie.

For a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. You could also use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for an extra layer of heat.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese. It will still give you a creamy texture but with fewer calories.

Whole grain sliders are a great choice for those who want a healthier twist. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations, like Colby-Jack or Gouda, to change up the flavor profile.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. Add a sprinkle of Italian herbs, paprika, or even chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. The possibilities are endless!

Enjoy making these delicious Crack Chicken Sliders, and watch them disappear right before your eyes!

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