Ranch Chicken Salad Sliders

Name: Ranch Chicken Salad Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 sliders
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1/4 cup chopped celery; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Tomato slices; Pickles (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love serving Ranch Chicken Salad Sliders at gatherings because they are easy to assemble and packed with flavor. The creamy ranch dressing combined with tender chicken creates a delicious filling that anyone can appreciate. I often make these ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld while I'm busy preparing other dishes. These sliders are not only a hit with my family, but they also disappear quickly at parties. The best part? They’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-06T20:02:31.398Z

When I first made Ranch Chicken Salad Sliders, I was amazed by how simple yet satisfying they were. I had leftover rotisserie chicken and decided to experiment with ingredients I had in my pantry. Using a creamy ranch dressing was a game-changer, as it tied all the flavors together beautifully. I also discovered that letting the salad chill for a bit really enhances the taste, allowing the herbs and spices to infuse into the chicken.

These sliders have become a staple in my home, especially for summer gatherings. I love how versatile they are; sometimes, I add crispy bacon or fresh veggies for an extra crunch. Just a few minutes of prep and I have a delectable dish that everyone raves about!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick preparation makes it perfect for last-minute gatherings
Creamy ranch flavor complemented by tender chicken
Easily customizable with toppings for different tastes

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a delectable Ranch Chicken Salad Slider lies in the quality of your chicken. I recommend using rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, as it adds a savory depth to the dish. If you prefer, poaching chicken breasts in a pot of simmering water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through is another great way to ensure tenderness. The shredded chicken should be moist and easy to incorporate into the salad.

Ranch dressing is the star of the show in this recipe. It brings creaminess and flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the chicken. If you're feeling adventurous, consider making your own ranch dressing with buttermilk, mayonnaise, fresh herbs, and spices. This homemade dressing can really elevate the overall taste of your sliders and allow you to control the seasoning.

Assembling the Perfect Sliders

When assembling your sliders, ensure the bottom half of the bun is adequately layered with lettuce. This not only adds a nice crunch but also acts as a barrier to moisture from the chicken salad, keeping the sliders from getting soggy if prepared ahead of time. Using fresh, crispy romaine or iceberg lettuce is ideal for this purpose, as they provide a satisfying texture.

For a pop of freshness, use ripe, juicy tomatoes, slicing them just before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor. If you're adding pickles, consider using dill or sweet varieties based on your taste preference. The contrasting flavors can create a more dynamic bite, so don't shy away from experimenting with different toppings like crispy bacon or avocados.

Ingredients for Ranch Chicken Salad Sliders

For the Chicken Salad

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sliders

6 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Pickles (optional)

Instructions

How to Make Ranch Chicken Salad Sliders

Prepare the Chicken Salad

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, ranch dressing, chopped celery, chopped green onions, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Sliders

Slice the slider buns in half. On the bottom half, layer with lettuce and place a generous scoop of the chicken salad. Add tomato slices and pickles if desired, then top with the other half of the bun.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy the flavorful bites!

These sliders can also be made a day in advance for a hassle-free dish at your next event.

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider mixing in some chopped bell peppers or crispy bacon to the chicken salad.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Ranch Chicken Salad Sliders can be made ahead of time, which is great for busy hosts. Prepare the chicken salad and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to serve, assemble the sliders with fresh buns. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld for an even tastier filling.

If using pre-made slider buns, store them at room temperature until assembly to ensure they remain soft and fluffy. If you've got leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place sliders in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warm and the buns are slightly crispy.

Customizing Your Sliders

One of the best aspects of Ranch Chicken Salad Sliders is the ability to customize. You can easily switch up the protein by using turkey or shredded beef for variety. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, consider substituting chicken with chickpeas or shredded tofu mixed with the ranch dressing for a satisfying texture.

Incorporate different cheeses, like feta or cheddar, to enhance the flavor profile. Adding spices such as smoked paprika or garlic powder can give the salad an extra kick. Remember, the toppings can really change the game—experiment with various greens, sliced jalapeños, or even specialty sauces to tailor these sliders to your taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, canned chicken works well in this recipe for added convenience.

→ How long can I store the chicken salad in the fridge?

You can store the chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

You can substitute ranch dressing with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a healthier alternative.

→ Can I freeze the chicken salad?

It’s best to avoid freezing the chicken salad, as it may change the texture when thawed.