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These buffalo chicken bacon ranch sliders transform any gathering into a celebration with their irresistible combination of flavors. The crispy, seasoned chicken thighs glazed with spicy buffalo sauce, smoky bacon, and homemade ranch dressing create perfect handheld bites that disappear quickly from any table.
I first made these sliders for a football watch party, and they've become my signature game day dish. Friends now expect them at every gathering, and I've refined the recipe over countless Sundays to achieve the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and texture.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: provide juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender even when reheated
- Buffalo sauce: adds the signature spicy kick that pairs perfectly with ranch
- Kings Hawaiian rolls: offer the perfect sweet balance to the spicy buffalo chicken
- Bacon: contributes smoky richness and satisfying crispiness
- Homemade ranch: brings fresh herbs and tangy creaminess that store-bought can’t match
- Mozzarella cheese: creates that irresistible gooey pull when sliders are fresh and hot
- Ranch seasoning: on buttered tops adds an extra layer of flavor in every bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the ranch:
- Mix all ranch ingredients in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Start with less buttermilk and add gradually to reach your desired consistency. The herbs should be finely chopped for even distribution throughout the dressing. Let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using to allow flavors to meld together completely.
- Season the chicken:
- Coat chicken thighs generously with oil to help seasoning adhere and promote browning. Apply salt, pepper and garlic powder liberally on all surfaces, massaging the seasonings into the meat. Allow seasoned chicken to rest in refrigerator for at least 15 minutes so flavors can penetrate the meat before cooking.
- Cook the bacon:
- Place bacon strips in a cold cast iron skillet before placing on the grill. This allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in evenly crisp bacon without burning. Cook until each slice reaches desired crispness, turning occasionally. After cooling, chop into small pieces to ensure easy eating in the sliders.
- Grill the chicken:
- Place seasoned chicken thighs on the indirect heat side of your grill at 375°F. Cook for 6-8 minutes undisturbed before flipping. Once flipped, generously brush buffalo sauce on the cooked side, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly without burning. Continue basting until chicken reaches 170°F for perfect tenderness.
- Rest and slice chicken:
- Allow grilled chicken to rest for a full 5 minutes after cooking. This critical step lets juices redistribute throughout the meat instead of running out when sliced. Cut chicken into thin strips across the grain for maximum tenderness in each bite.
- Assemble the sliders:
- Keep the Hawaiian rolls connected while slicing horizontally through the middle. Place the bottom half in a foil pan and layer with cheese first to create a moisture barrier between bread and fillings. Add sliced chicken, chopped bacon, drizzle with ranch, and top with more cheese before adding the top buns.
- Finish and bake:
- Brush tops with melted butter thoroughly to ensure even browning and crispy exterior. Sprinkle with ranch seasoning for additional flavor. Place assembled sliders on indirect heat at 350-375°F. Bake until tops are golden brown and cheese is completely melted, approximately 10-12 minutes.
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The homemade ranch dressing is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother taught me to add fresh herbs rather than dried, and the difference is remarkable. I remember serving these sliders at my sister's graduation party where even the pickiest eaters came back for seconds, asking for the ranch recipe almost as much as the sliders themselves.
Make-Ahead Options
Planning a party can be stressful, but these sliders offer excellent make-ahead potential. You can prepare the ranch dressing up to three days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop even more deeply in the refrigerator. The chicken can be grilled and sliced the day before, then gently reheated before assembly. Even the bacon can be cooked ahead and stored. On party day, simply assemble and bake the sliders fresh for that perfect combination of crispy exterior and melty interior that makes them irresistible.
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Perfect Pairings
These buffalo chicken bacon ranch sliders shine alongside complementary sides that balance their bold flavors. A crisp, cool coleslaw provides refreshing contrast to the spicy buffalo sauce. For a more substantial spread, consider serving with sweet potato fries, which echo the sweetness in the Hawaiian rolls while adding another textural element. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can also cut through the richness. For beverages, a crisp lager beer or cold lemonade complements the sliders perfectly by tempering the heat of the buffalo sauce.
Customization Ideas
The beauty of these sliders lies in their adaptability. For heat lovers, add diced jalapeños or increase the buffalo sauce. Cheese enthusiasts might experiment with pepper jack or blue cheese crumbles for different flavor profiles. Vegetarians can enjoy a version made with grilled portobello mushrooms instead of chicken. The buffalo sauce can be swapped for barbecue or teriyaki if preferred. Consider adding caramelized onions, avocado slices, or pineapple rings to create your own signature variation. The basic technique remains the same, making this recipe a perfect canvas for creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best way to grill the chicken for sliders?
Grill the chicken thighs over medium-high heat (around 375°F) using two-zone indirect cooking. Flip after 6-8 minutes per side and baste with buffalo sauce for extra flavor.
- → How can I make homemade ranch dressing?
Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, parsley, dill, garlic powder, black pepper, buttermilk, and salt to taste until you achieve the desired consistency.
- → Can I prepare the sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time, then assemble the sliders just before grilling to ensure they stay fresh and crispy.
- → What should I serve with these sliders?
These sliders pair well with a side of fresh veggie sticks, coleslaw, or crispy fries. Serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping.
- → How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?
Ensure the chicken and bacon have cooled slightly before assembling, and don’t overdo the sauces. Cooking in a foil pan helps retain the structure while keeping them crisp.
- → Can I use a different type of cheese for these sliders?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is recommended, feel free to use provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a bolder flavor.