Crack Chicken Sliders Casserole Recipe

The Zesty Crack Chicken Sliders Casserole Recipe Everyone Loves

Whipping up a crack chicken sliders casserole brings pure comfort to your kitchen table.

Layers of shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and melted cheese create an irresistible combination.

Soft slider buns absorb the rich, savory flavors perfectly.

Each bite promises a delightful blend of textures and tastes that’ll make everyone smile.

Ranch seasoning adds a zesty kick to this crowd-pleasing dish.

Cheesy, creamy, and packed with protein, this casserole becomes an instant favorite.

Gather around and savor every delectable moment of this mouthwatering meal.

What You Need For Crack Chicken Sliders Casserole

Protein Base:
  • Shredded Chicken: A tender and flavorful protein that serves as the main component of the casserole.
  • Bacon: A crispy and savory ingredient that adds a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
Dairy Components:
  • Cream Cheese: A creamy ingredient that provides a smooth and rich texture to the chicken mixture.
  • Cheddar Cheese: A sharp and tangy cheese that adds depth of flavor to the casserole.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: A mild and melty cheese that creates a gooey topping for the sliders.
Bread and Bun:
  • Slider Buns: Soft and pillowy bread that serves as the base for the casserole.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Ranch Dressing: A creamy and herby sauce that adds moisture and tang to the chicken mixture.
  • Green Onions: A fresh and mild onion that provides a subtle bite and color to the dish.
  • Garlic Powder: A concentrated seasoning that adds a robust garlic flavor.
  • Onion Powder: A complementary spice that enhances the overall savory profile.
  • Black Pepper: A classic spice that adds a subtle heat and depth to the casserole.
Additional Ingredients:
  • Butter: A rich and melting ingredient used to brush the tops of the buns for a golden finish.

Steps For Creamy Crack Chicken Sliders Bake

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Get your oven warmed to 350F (175C).

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Chicken Blend

In a spacious mixing bowl, toss together:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Ranch dressing
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Chopped green onions
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Black pepper

Mix everything until the ingredients become best friends and form a creamy, dreamy mixture.

Step 3: Spread the Goodness

Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly like a cozy blanket across the bottom.

Step 4: Bun Layer Magic

Slice your slider buns right down the middle.

Gently place the bottom halves on top of the chicken mixture, creating a delicious foundation.

Step 5: Cheese Crown

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the buns, ensuring every inch gets some cheesy love.

Step 6: Butter Brush Brilliance

Melt some butter and use a pastry brush to lovingly coat the tops of the buns.

This will create a golden, crispy exterior that’ll make mouths water.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and slide it into the oven.

Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes.

You’re looking for golden-brown buns and melted, bubbly cheese.

Step 8: Serve and Devour

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes – trust me, it’ll be worth the wait.

Scoop out those irresistible sliders and watch them disappear faster than you can say “crack chicken”!

Pro Tips For Gooey Chicken Slider Casserole

  • Choose high-quality, fresh chicken and crisp green onions for the best flavor and texture in your casserole.
  • Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack or gouda to add a unique twist to the classic recipe.
  • Shred chicken and mix ingredients up to a day in advance to save time during meal preparation.
  • Use low-sodium ranch dressing and reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter, healthier version of the dish.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help the ingredients set and make serving easier.

Crack Chicken Slider Casserole Variations For Fun

  • Vegetarian Slider Swap: Replace chicken with seasoned lentils or jackfruit, keeping the creamy ranch and cheese components for a plant-based alternative.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños, swap ranch for chipotle sauce, and mix in pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free slider buns or cauliflower rounds instead of traditional buns, ensuring all other ingredients remain the same.
  • Low-Carb Keto Version: Skip buns entirely, serve the chicken mixture over roasted cauliflower or zucchini rounds, maintaining the rich, creamy texture of the original recipe.

Serving Crack Chicken Slider Casserole To Family

  • Party Platter Paradise: Arrange sliders on a large wooden board with pickles, extra ranch, and colorful veggie sticks for a crowd-pleasing presentation.
  • Fresh Side Kick: Pair with crisp coleslaw or light green salad to balance the rich, creamy chicken mixture and add refreshing crunch.
  • Game Day Champion: Serve alongside cold beer, potato chips, and extra napkins for the ultimate casual gathering spread that keeps everyone happy and satisfied.
  • Leftover Magic: Reheat sliders in oven for 10 minutes at 325F, or enjoy cold as a quick next-day lunch with added fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Storage Advice For Crack Chicken Sliders Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent soggy buns and maintain texture.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until warmed through. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Place leftovers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for 15-20 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the buns and restore their golden texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Shred the meat before mixing with other ingredients.

  • Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture and assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

  • How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

Substitute light cream cheese, reduced-fat ranch dressing, and use turkey bacon to cut down on calories while maintaining great flavor.

  • Can I freeze Crack Chicken Sliders Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this dish after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Crack Chicken Sliders Casserole For Cozy Evenings

  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and packed flavors that make everyone at the table happy.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Combines simple ingredients into a delicious meal with minimal prep and maximum taste, perfect for busy families.
  • Customizable Delight: Easily adaptable recipe where you can swap ingredients or add personal touches to suit different taste preferences.
  • Party-Ready Dish: Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and casual get-togethers where you want a satisfying, shareable meal that looks impressive.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crack Chicken Sliders Casserole Recipe

Crack Chicken Sliders Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sizzling crack chicken sliders casserole brings comfort and excitement to dinner tables across America. Creamy, cheesy goodness combines with tender chicken, creating an irresistible meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 lbs (907 grams) chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) cooked bacon (crumbled)

Dairy and Cheese:

  • 1 (8 ounces / 226 grams) package cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup (113 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (57 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) green onions (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (12-pack) slider buns
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) unsalted butter (melted)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a robust filling by combining shredded chicken with cream cheese, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and seasonings in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly incorporated.
  3. Distribute the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring a consistent layer that covers the entire surface.
  4. Carefully slice slider buns horizontally and arrange the bottom halves directly over the chicken mixture, creating a stable foundation for the casserole.
  5. Generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese across the bun layer, allowing for complete coverage and maximum cheesy goodness.
  6. Gently brush the exposed bun tops with melted butter, which will help achieve a golden, crispy exterior during baking.
  7. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and ingredients to heat through.
  8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the buns turn a rich golden brown and the cheese becomes perfectly melted and bubbly.
  9. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven, then serve immediately while warm and aromatic.

Notes

  • Shred chicken in advance by using a stand mixer or two forks to save time and create consistent texture.
  • Swap ranch for lighter Greek yogurt dressing to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for faster preparation and deeper flavor profile.
  • Consider gluten-free slider buns to make recipe celiac-friendly and accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 335 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 710 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star