Save These maple chicken and bacon sliders come together so quickly that they have become my go-to when I need a crowd-pleasing snack or a speedy family dinner. Imagine warm rolls stuffed with juicy chicken, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and just enough sweet maple butter to make each bite taste cozy.
I first made these for a football party when I was pressed for time. Now whenever friends or family show up, this is the recipe I reach for because it is guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients
- Kings Hawaiian Rolls: twelve count pack soft and barely sweet these hold up to fillings while staying tender
- Cooked chicken strips: rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken both work just aim for juicy pieces
- Gouda cheese: adds a creamy melt and slight nuttiness buy block or pre-sliced for convenience
- Cooked bacon: extra crispy for best crunch thick cut is especially satisfying
- Maple butter: for a highlight of sweetness make your own by mixing softened butter with real maple syrup or choose store-bought
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Set the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit so it is fully preheated by the time you assemble
- Slice and Prep the Rolls:
- Use a bread knife to horizontally slice through the rolls keeping the tops and bottoms attached if possible to make assembly faster and neater
- Spread Maple Butter:
- Generously slather maple butter across the cut side of the bottom half getting into the edges so every bite picks up the sweetness
- Layer the Chicken:
- Arrange cooked chicken strips in a single layer across the bottom rolls covering every spot for consistent flavor
- Add the Bacon:
- Place strips of bacon directly on top of the chicken making sure the bacon reaches the edges for even crisp in each slider
- Top with Gouda:
- Cover everything with slices of Gouda cheese overlapping to ensure maximum melt and gooey texture
- Finish Assembly:
- Set the top half of the rolls back on gently pressing to hold everything in place
- Bake:
- Transfer the assembled sliders to a baking sheet and slide into the oven Let them bake for ten to fifteen minutes until the cheese is melty and the rolls develop a gentle golden crust
- Maple Butter Finish:
- When out of the oven use a pastry brush to paint the tops with more maple butter This keeps the sliders glossy and adds more maple flavor
- Slice and Serve:
- Use a sharp knife to cut into twelve pieces Serve warm for the best gooey melted cheese and flavors
Save These sliders remind me of weekend ski trips with cousins racing in hungry from the cold I always save an extra strip of bacon just for the cook because nothing beats bacon hot from the oven
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to two days Reheat covered in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees for about ten minutes so the rolls do not dry out or microwave for a quick fix though the bread may lose some crispness If you plan to serve later hold off on the maple butter brushing until just before serving to keep the tops from getting soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use any cooked chicken you have on hand Rotisserie chicken works great For the cheese try Swiss provolone cheddar or even mozzarella For bacon turkey bacon or a meatless plant-based alternative is a good substitute rolls can be gluten free if needed If you do not have maple butter simply swirl maple syrup into softened plain butter and use that as your spread
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sliders hot as party appetizers or as part of a casual lunch Add a leafy salad or chips Sheet pan roasted veggies pair well for extra color During game day they are excellent straight from the oven or packed up for picnics Try adding a thin layer of arugula or spinach before baking for freshness
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Maple is a beloved sweetener throughout North American kitchens and brings a seasonal winter and early spring vibe These sliders have become a staple at fall gatherings tailgate parties and family reunions You can easily adapt them by using leftover turkey near the holidays or adding cranberry sauce for more festive flavor
Save I learned over time that lightly toasting the rolls before assembling gives that bakery fresh touch on days when you have a couple extra minutes
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of Gouda?
Yes, swap in Swiss, provolone, or cheddar for a new flavor. All melt beautifully and pair well with bacon.
- → How can I make these suitable for dietary needs?
Use gluten-free rolls and dairy-free cheese to adjust for allergies while maintaining delicious flavor.
- → Can the sliders be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for maximum freshness.
- → What can I add for freshness?
Layer baby spinach or arugula before baking for extra flavor, color, and crunch.
- → What's the ideal baking time and temperature?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until the cheese melts and rolls turn golden brown.
- → What tools do I need to prepare these?
A baking sheet, bread knife, pastry brush, and measuring utensils are all you need for quick assembly and baking.