Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

If you are searching for a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in one bite, the Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Recipe will quickly become your go-to dish. These sliders take the comforting taste of crack chicken and elevate it with the soft, sweet touch of Hawaiian rolls, creating an irresistible snack or meal that’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply satisfying a savory craving. Every slider bursts with rich, melty cheese, smoky bacon, and tender chicken, wrapped in a buttery, golden bun that offers just the right balance of sweetness and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is as simple as it is essential. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding the creamy base to infusing the sliders with robust flavor and delightful textures.

• Cream cheese (16 ounces): Softened to create a smooth, creamy foundation that binds all the flavors beautifully.
• Dry ranch dressing mix (1 ounce packet): Adds the classic zesty ranch flavor that makes the dish truly shine.
• Onion powder (2 teaspoons): Deepens the savory notes and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Fresh cracked black pepper (1 teaspoon): Offers a perfect mild kick and seasoning balance.
• Green onions (⅓ cup, thinly sliced): Brings a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color.
• Cooked, shredded boneless, skinless chicken breast (2½ cups): The star of the recipe, providing tender, protein-packed goodness.
• Cooked, crumbled bacon (12 ounces): Infuses smoky, crispy texture and savory depth.
• Mild shredded cheddar cheese (2½ cups total, divided): Melted gooeyness that keeps every bite cheesy and dreamy.
• Sweet Hawaiian rolls (12 count, sliced in half): Soft and slightly sweet, they perfectly complement the savory filling.
• Salted sweet cream butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and ensures a golden, buttery crust.
• Grated parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons): Gives a sharp, nutty topping that crisps up beautifully.
• Fresh chives (2 teaspoons, finely chopped): Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and appealing green garnish.

How to Make Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and set it aside. This will be the cozy home for your sliders as they bake to perfection.

Step 2: Melt the Cream Cheese

Place the softened cream cheese in a heavy-bottom stock pot over medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure it melts evenly, creating a smooth, velvety base for your chicken mixture.

Step 3: Season the Cream Cheese

Sprinkle in the dry ranch dressing mix, onion powder, and freshly cracked black pepper while the cream cheese is still warm. Stir everything together until fully combined, then remove the pot from the heat to preserve those fresh flavors.

Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients

Stir in the sliced green onions, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese right into the creamy ranch mixture. Keep stirring until the filling is uniformly creamy and loaded with delicious bits of chicken and bacon.

Step 5: Assemble the Slider Base

Lay the bottom halves of the Hawaiian rolls snugly into the prepared baking dish. This soft, slightly sweet bread will hold all of your filling just right without overwhelming it.

Step 6: Add the Chicken Mixture

Evenly spread the luscious chicken and cheese mixture over the bottom rolls, covering every inch so each slider promises a burst of flavor with each bite.

Step 7: Top with More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese generously over the creamy chicken layer. This extra cheese layer ensures gooey indulgence that pulls everything together.

Step 8: Place the Tops of the Rolls

Carefully place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls over the cheese, creating the perfect slider stack that’s ready to be basted and baked.

Step 9: Brush with Butter

Using a pastry brush, coat the tops of the rolls with melted sweet cream butter. This step guarantees a golden, flavorful crust once baked.

Step 10: Add Parmesan and Chives

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered rolls, then scatter finely chopped fresh chives on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Step 11: Bake the Sliders

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows the sliders to heat through completely and the cheeses to melt perfectly.

Step 12: Finish Baking Uncovered

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 5 to 8 minutes until the tops turn golden brown and slightly crisp, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.

Step 13: Rest and Serve

Take the sliders out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the filling settle so that when you slice and serve, the sliders hold together beautifully.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly chopped chives are a wonderful garnish that adds vibrant color and a gentle oniony kick to balance the richness of the sliders. You can also sprinkle extra parmesan for a savory crust effect or add a light drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for a little heat.

Side Dishes

These sliders pair beautifully with crisp salads, like a tangy coleslaw or a simple green salad tossed with vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a more indulgent pairing, try crispy sweet potato fries or classic kettle-cooked potato chips for a textural contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Need to impress at a party? Arrange the sliders on a festive platter lined with lettuce leaves and place small colorful toothpicks in each for easy grabbing. For game day, serve alongside miniature condiment bowls featuring ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard to elevate the experience. You can also split the batch into mini slider portions for bite-sized party treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay moist and full of flavor, making for an easy next-day snack or meal.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled sliders before baking by wrapping the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese becomes melty again. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the tops from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use another type of bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls add a wonderful sweetness and softness, you can use dinner rolls or slider buns of your choice. Just consider that different breads may alter the flavor balance and texture of the final dish.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, the Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is mild and creamy with savory flavors, but you can add some heat by mixing in chopped jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or serving with spicy condiments.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready, assemble and bake the sliders as directed. This makes for a great shortcut when hosting guests.

What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?

Using cooked, shredded boneless, skinless chicken breasts is ideal for tender, lean protein. You can poach, bake, or even use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To enjoy this recipe gluten-free, swap out the Hawaiian rolls for gluten-free slider buns. Ensure the ranch seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free by checking the labels carefully.

Final Thoughts

This Crack Chicken Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is truly a winner for anyone who loves comforting, cheesy, crowd-pleasing food. The combination of creamy ranch-flavored chicken with smoky bacon and melty cheese tucked inside sweet Hawaiian rolls is pure magic. Whether you’re serving them at a casual get-together or just craving an indulgent meal, these sliders are guaranteed to impress. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a staple in your recipe collection — it’s as delicious as it sounds!

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