Hawaiian Roll Chicken Sliders

These chicken bacon ranch sliders transform simple ingredients into an irresistible party favorite that disappears within minutes at every gathering I host. The combination of tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheese all brought together with creamy ranch dressing creates the ultimate comfort food experience between soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls.

I first made these sliders for a last-minute Super Bowl party when I needed something substantial but simple. They were such a hit that they've become my most requested recipe for game days, potlucks, and even quick family dinners.

Ingredients

• Hawaiian rolls These sweet, soft rolls create the perfect vessel for all the savory fillings and develop a beautiful golden crust when baked
• Shredded chicken Using rotisserie chicken saves tremendous time while adding moist, flavorful protein
• Bacon Provides that irresistible smoky crunch that elevates the entire slider experience
• Sharp cheddar cheese The tanginess balances the sweetness of the rolls while creating that perfect cheese pull
• Ranch dressing Acts as both a binding agent and flavor enhancer choose a high quality brand for best results
• Parmesan cheese Creates a delicious savory crust on top of the rolls during baking
• Fresh chives Add a mild onion flavor and beautiful pop of color to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the bacon

Cook bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden brown, about 7-10 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The small pieces cook more evenly than whole strips would. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease which would make your sliders soggy.

Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 325°F while assembling the sliders. This moderate temperature ensures the rolls brown nicely without burning while allowing enough time for the cheese to melt completely and flavors to meld together.

Mix the filling

Combine shredded chicken, most of the bacon bits, and ranch dressing in a bowl. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together but not dripping wet. This balance ensures flavorful chicken that stays put when eating the sliders.

Prepare the rolls

Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally while keeping them connected. This technique makes assembly much easier and ensures every bite contains the perfect ratio of ingredients. Place the bottom half in your baking dish.

Begin layering

Spread a thin layer of ranch dressing on the bottom rolls then add a layer of cheese squares. This creates a moisture barrier that prevents the bread from becoming soggy while also adding that essential first layer of cheesy goodness.

Add filling and more cheese

Spread the chicken mixture evenly across all rolls, making sure every slider gets an equal amount. Top with additional cheese squares and remaining bacon bits for maximum flavor in every bite.

Complete assembly

Place the top half of the rolls over everything and brush with a light layer of ranch dressing. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese which will create a beautiful golden crust during baking.

Bake to perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake 7-10 minutes more until golden brown. The initial covered baking ensures everything heats through without burning, while the uncovered portion creates that beautiful top crust.

Finish and serve

Let cool slightly before cutting along the seams into individual sliders. The brief cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly so the sliders hold together better when served.

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My absolute favorite thing about these sliders is the way the bottom of the rolls soaks up just enough of the ranch and chicken juices while still maintaining their structure. I discovered this happy accident when I first made them and had to let them sit for about 15 minutes before serving. That short rest created the perfect texture that my family now insists upon.

Make-Ahead Options

These sliders are perfect for planning ahead. You can fully assemble them up to 4 hours before baking and store covered in the refrigerator. For longer preparation, I recommend assembling everything except the top layer of rolls and cheese, storing these components separately, then completing assembly just before baking. This prevents any sogginess from developing during storage.

Serving Suggestions

While these sliders are substantial enough to serve as a main dish with a simple green salad, they truly shine as part of a larger spread. I like to pair them with fresh vegetable platters, potato chips with homemade dip, and a refreshing fruit salad to balance the richness. For casual entertaining, arrange them on a wooden board alongside pickles, olives, and additional ranch dressing for dipping.

Flavor Variations

The beauty of these sliders lies in their adaptability. Try substituting pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or Swiss for a more subtle flavor. The chicken can be seasoned with different spice blends before mixing with ranch - taco seasoning creates a Mexican-inspired version, while Italian seasoning takes them in a completely different direction. You can even substitute turkey for chicken during holiday leftover season.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other types of rolls for these sliders?

While Hawaiian rolls provide the perfect sweet contrast to the savory filling, you can substitute brioche buns or dinner rolls. Just ensure they're connected in a sheet for easier preparation and even baking.

→ How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, don't add too much ranch dressing to the chicken mixture. The mixture should be moist but not dripping. Also, baking uncovered for the final minutes helps crisp the tops and reduce excess moisture.

→ What's the best chicken to use for these sliders?

Rotisserie chicken provides the best flavor and convenience. Alternatively, poached or baked chicken breasts work well when shredded. For maximum moisture, use a combination of white and dark meat.

→ Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with plant-based chicken alternatives or roasted chickpeas seasoned with ranch spices. Use vegetarian bacon or smoked tempeh strips, and ensure your ranch dressing is vegetarian-friendly.

→ How do I store and reheat leftover sliders?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning. Microwaving works but may make the rolls slightly chewy.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

These sliders pair perfectly with crispy potato chips, a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries. For a complete meal, add a vegetable platter with additional ranch dressing for dipping.