Name: Crack Chicken Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 12 slider buns; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp parsley (optional, for garnish)

There's something magical about Crack Chicken Sliders – a dish that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors with the perfect kick of ranch seasoning. These bite-sized delights are the ultimate crowd-pleasers, whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual gathering, or just craving comfort food at its finest.

I first discovered crack chicken sliders while hunting for an easy-to-make recipe for a potluck. The combination of shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheese nestled between buttery slider buns was an instant hit. Let me share why these sliders have become a household favorite and how you can make them in no time.

Why You'll Love These Crack Chicken Sliders

Prepare to fall head over heels for these irresistible sliders. They’re easy, flavorful, and downright addictive.

First, they’re quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. You can have these ready in under 30 minutes if you have pre-cooked chicken on hand.

The flavor combination is out of this world. Creamy ranch dressing, smoky bacon, and melted cheese come together to create a savory, satisfying bite every time.

They’re versatile too! Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with adults and kids alike.

Finally, they’re perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week – if they last that long!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of crack chicken sliders lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes them shine:

Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here, but you can also use leftover chicken breasts or thighs. Shred it finely to ensure even distribution in the sliders.
Cream Cheese: This forms the creamy base of the filling. Use full-fat for the best flavor and texture, but you can opt for low-fat if preferred.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a cheese blend works beautifully too. It melts perfectly and adds a gooey, cheesy pull.
Ranch Seasoning: The star of the show! Packaged ranch seasoning adds that signature tangy, herby kick. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own with a mix of dried herbs and spices.
Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon brings a smoky, salty element that takes these sliders to the next level.
Slider Buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns like Hawaiian rolls are perfect for this recipe. They soak up the buttery topping without falling apart.
Butter and Seasonings: Brushing melted butter mixed with garlic powder and parsley over the buns before baking gives them a golden, flavorful finish.

How To Make Crack Chicken Sliders

These sliders come together quickly and easily – here’s how to make them step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and crumbled bacon until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact as one piece. Place the bottom halves in a greased 9x13 baking dish. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the buns, then top with more shredded cheese. Add the top halves of the buns.

Step 3: Add the Butter Topping

Melt butter in a small bowl and mix with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this generously over the tops of the slider buns. Sprinkle with a pinch of ranch seasoning for extra flavor.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes to warm everything through and melt the cheese. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to toast the buns lightly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sliders from the oven, let them cool for a minute, and slice into individual portions. Serve warm and watch them disappear!

Storage Options

Crack chicken sliders are just as delicious the next day, making them perfect for leftovers.

Refrigeration: Place leftover sliders in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: Wrap individual sliders in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Reheating Tips: To maintain their texture, reheat sliders in the oven instead of the microwave whenever possible.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of crack chicken sliders is how versatile they are. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Spicy Sliders: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a little heat.
Buffalo Style: Mix the chicken filling with a few tablespoons of buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy twist.
Turkey or Ham: Swap out the chicken for shredded turkey or diced ham for a fun variation.
Veggie Option: Use plant-based chicken alternatives or roasted, shredded jackfruit for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Topping Ideas: Add sliced pickles, caramelized onions, or even avocado slices before baking for extra layers of flavor.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Sliders are the ultimate comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor in every bite. They’re quick to make, endlessly customizable, and a guaranteed hit with any crowd. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders are sure to be the star of the table. Try them out and see why they’re a fan favorite!