Introduction
Crack Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors packed into soft, toasted slider buns. Made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheddar, these sliders are easy to make and a favorite for parties, game nights, and family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Rich, creamy, and cheesy – A perfect blend of textures and flavors.
- Bacon adds a smoky crunch that makes it irresistible.
- Perfect for gatherings – Great for game days, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Quick & easy to prepare – Uses simple ingredients and minimal cooking time.
- Highly customizable – Adjust spice levels, cheese varieties, or toppings.
Origin of Crack Chicken Sliders
- The term “crack chicken” comes from its addictive flavors – creamy ranch, melted cheese, and crispy bacon.
- This dish originated in the U.S., inspired by the classic Crack Chicken recipe, which is typically served in sandwiches, dips, or casseroles.
- Sliders were popularized in American fast food culture, making this version a delicious fusion of both!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
For the Sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls or slider buns
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
How to Make Crack Chicken Sliders
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, bacon, and mayonnaise/sour cream. Mix well.
Step 2: Assemble the Sliders
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half without separating them individually.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls.
- Place the top half of the rolls back over the chicken mixture.
Step 3: Bake the Sliders
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, parsley, and sesame seeds. Brush over the tops of the rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips:
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
- For extra cheesiness, add a layer of shredded cheese on top before baking.
- Make them spicy by adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Brush with flavored butter (garlic, ranch, or honey butter) for extra taste.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Skipping the foil cover – It helps prevent the tops from burning while the cheese melts.
- Not softening the cream cheese – This ensures smooth mixing.
- Overloading the filling – Too much filling can make the sliders messy.
- Using dry chicken – Moist chicken makes the mixture creamy and rich.
Serving Tips
- Serve with potato wedges, coleslaw, or a side salad for a full meal.
- Pair with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added freshness.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Chicken – High in protein and low in fat.
- Cheddar Cheese – Provides calcium and essential vitamins.
- Bacon – Adds flavor but should be consumed in moderation.
- Cream Cheese – Contains healthy fats but can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Hawaiian Rolls – Soft and slightly sweet, but whole wheat buns can be used for a healthier option.
Interesting Facts About Crack Chicken Sliders
- The term “crack” in recipes refers to the addicting combination of ranch, bacon, and cheese.
- Sliders were originally made famous by White Castle, one of the first fast-food chains in the U.S.
- These sliders can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Crack chicken is often served in dip form, stuffed in wraps, or over pasta.
Summarized Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders
Ingredients:
Shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, bacon, mayonnaise, Hawaiian rolls, butter, garlic powder, parsley, sesame seeds.
Instructions:
- Mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, cheddar, bacon, and mayonnaise.
- Slice Hawaiian rolls in half and spread the chicken mixture on the bottom half.
- Place the top half back on and brush with butter mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes covered, then 5 minutes uncovered.
- Slice, serve warm, and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Crack Chicken Sliders are a flavor-packed, cheesy, and irresistible snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick dinner, or craving comfort food, these sliders will be an instant hit!
