Crack Chicken Sliders are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and gooey melted cheese, all packed into soft, buttery slider rolls.

Perfect for parties, game days, or a family meal, these sliders are simple to prepare yet packed with flavor. The term “crack chicken” refers to its addictive combination of ingredients that create an irresistible sandwich experience.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon for mixing
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Serrated knife
• Pastry brush
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. Cook the Chicken (if not using rotisserie chicken):
   • If you’re starting with raw chicken breasts, season them with salt and pepper. You can either bake or boil the chicken:
     • To bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
     • To boil, place the chicken breasts in a pot of boiling water, cooking for about 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
   • Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to cool slightly and shred it using two forks.
2. Mix the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is evenly distributed, and the filling is creamy and cheesy.
   • If you like an extra burst of flavor, you can fold in some finely chopped green onions at this stage. They add a mild onion flavor and some color.

Step 2: Prepare the Slider Rolls

1. Slice the Rolls:
   • Using a serrated knife, slice the entire pack of slider rolls horizontally, so you have a top and bottom layer. Do not separate the individual rolls yet; keep them intact for easier assembly.
   • Place the bottom half of the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Layer the Chicken Filling:
   • Spread the crack chicken filling evenly over the bottom half of the slider rolls in the baking dish. Be generous with the filling to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
2. Add the Top Layer:
   • Place the top half of the slider rolls on top of the chicken mixture, pressing down gently to help them adhere to the filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Butter Topping

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave (about 20-30 seconds). Be careful not to overheat it.
2. Mix the Seasonings:
   • Add the garlic powder, dried parsley, and Dijon mustard (if using) to the melted butter. Stir until everything is well-combined.
3. Brush the Butter Topping:
   • Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter mixture over the top of the slider rolls. Make sure to coat the tops evenly, as this will create a flavorful, golden crust during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Sliders

1. Cover and Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help the sliders steam and become tender while the cheese melts completely.
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes.
2. Uncover and Finish Baking:
   • After the first 15-20 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step helps the tops of the sliders turn golden brown and slightly crispy.
3. Check for Doneness:
   • Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rolls are golden on top, remove the sliders from the oven. You can use a spatula to lift the top roll slightly to ensure the cheese has melted all the way through.

Step 6: Serve the Sliders

1. Slice and Serve:
   • Use a serrated knife to slice the sliders apart, following the natural divisions between the rolls. You should have 12 individual sliders that are easy to grab and enjoy.
2. Serving Suggestions:
   • For a Party: Serve the sliders on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
   • For a Meal: Pair the sliders with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or a light green salad to balance the richness of the sliders.
   • Dipping Options: Serve with extra ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or hot sauce on the side for dipping.

Step 7: Storing and Reheating

1. Storing Leftovers:
   • If you have any leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating:
   • To reheat, place the sliders on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.

Tips for Making Perfect Crack Chicken Sliders

1. Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover shredded chicken. It makes the preparation quicker and just as delicious.
2. Adjust to Taste: Feel free to customize the amount of bacon, cheese, or seasoning to suit your preferences. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a bit of spice.
3. Make It Spicy: For those who like heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.
4. Double the Recipe: If you’re serving a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled. Use a larger baking dish or prepare two separate trays.

Variations of Crack Chicken Sliders

1. Buffalo Crack Chicken Sliders:
   • Add 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
2. BBQ Crack Chicken Sliders:
   • Swap out the ranch seasoning for BBQ sauce in the chicken mixture for a sweet and smoky flavor. Top with extra BBQ sauce after baking for even more flavor.
3. Jalapeño Popper Crack Chicken Sliders:
   • Stir in diced pickled jalapeños and extra cream cheese to create a jalapeño popper-inspired filling that adds a spicy kick.
4. Italian Crack Chicken Sliders:
   • Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the chicken mixture, and sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the top of the rolls before baking for a Mediterranean twist.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Sliders are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy, cheesy filling and crispy, golden-baked rolls, these sliders offer a delicious bite that’s both satisfying and addictive. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a family meal, or packing them for lunch, they’re sure to become a favorite.