Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls! Packed with creamy, cheesy chicken and crispy bacon, all nestled in sweet Hawaiian rolls, these sliders are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party with friends or a cozy family dinner. Get ready to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests with this irresistible recipe!

Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (2 8-ounce packages) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ounce packet dry ranch dressing mix
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • ⅓ cup thinly sliced green onion
  • 2 ½ cups cooked, shredded boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 12 ounces cooked, crumbled bacon
  • 2 ½ cups mild shredded cheddar cheese, divided into 1 cup and 1 ½ cups
  • 12 count package sweet Hawaiian Rolls, sliced in half
  • 6 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chives

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside.
  2. Melt the Cream Cheese: In a 4-5 quart heavy-bottom stock pot over medium heat, melt the cream cheese, stirring often until smooth and creamy.
  3. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the ranch mix, onion powder, and cracked black pepper over the melted cream cheese. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the green onion, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until fully incorporated.
  5. Prepare the Rolls: Place the bottom halves of the Hawaiian rolls into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Add the Filling: Spread the chicken ranch mixture evenly over the bottom rolls.
  7. Add More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture.
  8. Top the Sliders: Lay the top halves of the rolls over the shredded cheese.
  9. Butter the Rolls: Use a pastry brush to spread the melted butter over the top rolls.
  10. Add Parmesan and Chives: Evenly sprinkle the parmesan cheese and chopped chives over the buttered rolls.
  11. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  12. Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow the sliders to rest for 5 minutes before cutting into individual servings.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 12

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve these Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls as a delicious appetizer at your next party or gathering. They’re also perfect for casual family dinners or game day snacks.
  • Pair them with your favorite sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Storage Instructions:

  • Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming and making the rolls soggy.
  • You can also freeze the sliders for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Tips:

  • To reheat refrigerated sliders, preheat your oven to 350°F and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
  • If reheating from frozen, allow the sliders to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating them in the oven as directed above.

Presentation Ideas:

  • Garnish the sliders with additional chopped chives or parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
  • Serve them on a platter with toothpicks inserted into each slider for easy grabbing and eating, especially at parties or gatherings.

Customization Options:

  • Customize the sliders by adding sliced jalapeños or banana peppers for a spicy kick, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and color.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or Swiss to change up the flavor profile and add variety to your sliders.

Enjoying Leftovers:

  • Repurpose leftover sliders by chopping them up and mixing them into scrambled eggs or a breakfast casserole for a delicious morning meal.
  • Use the leftover chicken ranch mixture as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or baked potatoes for a quick and easy dinner option.

Make-Ahead Tips:

  • You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and refrigerate them, covered, until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining or busy weeknights.
  • Alternatively, you can prepare the chicken ranch mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the sliders.

Variations:

  1. BBQ Bacon Bliss: Add a tangy twist to your sliders by mixing barbecue sauce into the chicken ranch mixture before assembling the sliders. Top with crispy bacon and extra barbecue sauce for a flavor explosion.
  2. Buffalo Chicken Kick: Spice things up by tossing the shredded chicken in buffalo sauce before adding it to the sliders. Top with crumbled blue cheese and sliced celery for a buffalo chicken-inspired delight.
  3. Italian-Inspired Option: Swap the ranch dressing mix for Italian seasoning and mix shredded mozzarella cheese into the chicken mixture. Top with marinara sauce and additional mozzarella cheese for a cheesy Italian twist.
  4. Mexican Fiesta Flair: Incorporate taco seasoning into the chicken mixture and top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for a south-of-the-border sensation.
  5. Vegetarian Variation: For a meat-free option, omit the chicken and bacon and replace them with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Add a layer of sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
  6. Mini Meatball Marvel: Instead of chicken, use cooked meatballs in marinara sauce for the sliders. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before baking for a comforting twist on classic sliders.
  7. Pulled Pork Perfection: Substitute shredded pork shoulder for the chicken and mix it with barbecue sauce for a hearty alternative. Top with coleslaw for added crunch and freshness.
  8. Greek-Inspired Delight: Use Greek seasoning in place of the ranch mix and mix shredded feta cheese into the chicken mixture. Top with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired treat.
  9. Breakfast Brunch Variation: Serve these sliders for brunch by adding scrambled eggs to the chicken mixture and topping with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage. Drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination.
  10. Caprese Style Sliders: Layer slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, tomato, and basil leaves on top of the chicken mixture. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before adding the top halves of the rolls for a gourmet twist on sliders.

Experiment with these variations to create unique and delicious sliders that suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try one of these creative twists, you’re sure to enjoy the irresistible flavors of Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls!

FAQs :

  1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Simply shred the meat and incorporate it into the cream cheese mixture as directed.
  2. Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the sliders ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for parties or busy weeknights.
  3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses such as Swiss, pepper jack, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
  4. Can I make these sliders spicy? Yes, you can add hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
  5. Can I make these sliders vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the chicken and bacon and use sautéed vegetables or meat substitutes such as tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly option.
  6. How do I prevent the Hawaiian rolls from getting soggy? To prevent the rolls from becoming soggy, make sure the cream cheese mixture is well-drained before assembling the sliders. You can also toast the rolls slightly before adding the filling.
  7. Can I freeze these sliders? Yes, you can freeze assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
  8. How long do leftovers last in the refrigerator? Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

With its perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory bacon, these Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a comforting meal, these sliders are guaranteed to hit the spot. Give this recipe a try and elevate your comfort food game to new heights!