The moment you take a bite of Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders, your taste buds will dance the cha-cha. Picture juicy, tender chicken coated in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce that mingles with the zesty ranch flavors, all nestled between two soft slider buns. pulled chicken variations It’s like a flavor explosion that says, “Eat me now!” This dish is perfect for game day gatherings or when you simply want to treat yourself after a long week because who doesn’t deserve a little culinary happiness?
I remember the first time I made these sliders. My friends came over for the big game, and I was determined to impress them with my culinary skills. As the aroma of slow-cooked goodness filled my home, I couldn’t help but feel like a kitchen rockstar. They devoured these sliders faster than I could make them! Now, they are my go-to recipe for all occasions family dinners, casual get-togethers, or just nights when I want to feel like a domestic goddess without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders recipe is incredibly easy to prepare; just toss everything in and let the magic happen.
- The combination of tangy ranch and smoky BBQ creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
- These sliders are visually appealing with their golden buns and vibrant toppings.
- Perfect for parties, they can be customized with your favorite toppings for endless versatility.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders
For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; adjust as needed based on how hungry your crowd is.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce; either way, it’s the star of the show.
- Ranch Dressing Mix: A packet of ranch dressing mix adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the BBQ.
- Buns: Choose slider-sized buns; brioche or whole wheat add a delightful touch.
- Optional Toppings: Lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, or extra ranch dressing for those who can’t get enough.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. No need to season them yet; they’ll soak up all those delicious flavors soon enough.
Step 2: Add the Sauces
Pour your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken. Then sprinkle in the ranch dressing mix like you’re sprinkling fairy dust magic happens here!
Step 3: Let It Cook
Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want that chicken falling apart like it can’t handle all its deliciousness.
Step 4: Shred and Mix
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks right inside the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined; it’s going to be messy but oh-so-satisfying!
Step 5: Toast Your Buns
While your chicken mixture cools slightly (if you can resist), slice your slider buns in half and toast them lightly until golden brown. This adds an extra crunch that elevates your sliders from good to legendary.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Scoop generous portions of the shredded chicken onto each bun half and top with any optional toppings you desire. Transfer to plates and watch as everyone dives into this delightful feast!
And there you have it! Your guests will ask for seconds (and thirds!) before you even finish serving them. Enjoy every bite of these Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders—you absolutely deserve it!
You Must Know
- Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders are not just a meal; they’re a party on a bun.
- These sliders are easy to whip up and bursting with flavor, making them perfect for game day or any casual get-together.
- The rich, tangy BBQ paired with ranch creates a symphony of taste that everyone loves!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning your chicken with ranch dressing mix, then place it in the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce over the top and set it to cook low for about six hours. Shred the chicken when it’s tender, mix well, and serve!
Add Your Touch
Make these sliders uniquely yours by adding sliced jalapeños for a kick or swapping out the ranch mix for a spicy buffalo sauce. You can also toss in diced onions or bell peppers for more veggie goodness!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about one minute or heat on the stove until warmed through, keeping that deliciousness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders turn out perfectly every time, remember these tips!
- For tender chicken, don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow is key.
- Always shred the chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling.
- Finally, give it a good stir before serving to blend those flavors beautifully.
Sometimes cooking feels like an Olympic sport especially when friends ask if you’ve perfected that slider recipe yet. I still laugh thinking about my last game day gathering when everyone devoured these sliders faster than I could make them!
FAQs :
What are Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders?
Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish. This recipe features chicken cooked slowly in a rich BBQ sauce infused with ranch seasoning, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Once cooked, the chicken is shredded and served on slider buns, making it perfect for parties or casual dinners. creamy chicken recipe You can customize the sliders with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw or pickles, to enhance the flavor profile even further.
How long does it take to make Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders?
Making Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders is simple and relatively quick when you consider the cooking time. The preparation takes about 10-15 minutes, where you mix the ingredients and add them to the slow cooker. Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until fork-tender. buffalo chicken flatbreads Once done, shred the chicken and assemble your sliders. Overall, it’s a hassle-free meal that you can set and forget while you enjoy your day.
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders. However, if using frozen chicken breasts or thighs, it is essential to increase the cooking time by an hour or so. Make sure your slow cooker reaches a safe temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the chicken cooks thoroughly. Using frozen chicken can be convenient when you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal.
What toppings go well with Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders?
Toppings play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor of Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders. Popular options include creamy coleslaw for crunch, sliced pickles for tanginess, and jalapeños for heat. Other choices might include sliced avocado or cheese to add richness. Feel free to get creative with your toppings; they can elevate your sliders and make them even more enjoyable!
Conclusion for Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders :
In summary, Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders offer an effortless yet satisfying meal option perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, these sliders promise tender, flavorful chicken bursting with smoky BBQ and ranch flavors. smoky chipotle tacos Customize them with various toppings to suit your taste preferences. Whether serving guests at a gathering or enjoying a family dinner, these sliders will surely be a hit!
Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders
Slow Cooker BBQ Ranch Chicken Sliders are a mouthwatering treat that combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with rich BBQ sauce and zesty ranch seasoning, all nestled in soft slider buns. Perfect for game days or casual gatherings, these sliders offer a burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With minimal prep and endless topping options, you’ll want to make these again and again!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 sliders 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 12 slider buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, additional ranch dressing
Instructions
- Place boneless chicken breasts in the slow cooker without seasoning.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the chicken and sprinkle ranch dressing mix on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.
- Shred the chicken inside the slow cooker with two forks and stir to combine.
- Lightly toast slider buns until golden brown.
- Assemble sliders by adding shredded chicken to each bun and top with desired toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 660mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, add sliced jalapeños or bell peppers to the slow cooker. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
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