Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken Sliders are super tasty and easy to make! Juicy chicken is slow-cooked with zesty ranch seasoning and pepperoncini peppers, creating a flavorful filling.
These sliders are perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. I can’t resist them, especially with a bit of extra cheese melted on top! They are a hit every time! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook up tender easily. You can swap these for thighs for more flavor, but adjust the cooking time slightly since they take a bit longer.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This adds a flavorful kick! If you don’t have it, you could mix your own with dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder for a similar taste. Just use about two tablespoons of your mix.
Au Jus Gravy Mix: This provides a rich flavor to the chicken. If you can’t find it, you can use beef broth instead, but keep in mind that it will be a bit milder. You could add a splash of soy sauce for an extra savory element too.
Pepperoncini: These pack a nice tang. If you want a milder option, use banana peppers. You can also skip them entirely for less heat, but you’ll lose some of that unique taste.
Slider Buns: Any small rolls work! If you prefer whole grain or gluten-free options, those will hold up well, too. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to handle the filling.
How Do You Shred Chicken Quickly Without a Mess?
Shredding chicken can be a task, but it’s simple if you follow these steps:
- First, make sure your chicken is cooked through; it will shred easier when tender.
- Use two forks: hold one fork steady in the meat and use the other to pull apart the chicken.
- Mix the shredded chicken back with the juices in the Crock Pot for extra flavor. This keeps it moist and flavorful.
When using thighs, make sure to cut off any excess fat before cooking, as this can affect the texture once shredded.
What’s the Best Way to Make Cheesy Sliders?
For delicious cheesy sliders, layering the cheese properly is crucial:
- Place the shredded chicken on the bottom bun, then add a slice of provolone on top. This helps to anchor the cheese and prevents it from sliding off.
- Optionally, brush the top buns with melted butter or garlic butter before baking. This adds flavor and helps achieve that lovely golden color.
- Keep a close eye in the oven; you want the cheese melted and the buns just golden, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Take them out promptly to avoid overcooking as they can dry out quickly.
How to Make Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini (with juice)
For the Sliders:
- 1 package (12-16 count) slider buns
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
- Potato chips (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the Crock Pot. After cooking, you’ll spend about 15 minutes baking the sliders and getting everything ready to serve. Perfect for a laid-back meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing your chicken breasts right at the bottom of your Crock Pot. It’s as easy as that! No need to season them yet; we’ll add flavor soon.
2. Add the Seasoning:
Next, sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and the au jus gravy mix evenly over the chicken. This will make the chicken super flavorful as it cooks!
3. Pour the Pepperoncini:
Now add those sliced pepperoncini along with their juice right on top of the chicken. This adds a nice tang to your sliders!
4. Add the Butter:
Cut your unsalted butter into small pieces and scatter them above the chicken mixture. This will keep the chicken moist and delicious while it cooks.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your Crock Pot, set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, and let it work its magic! Once the chicken is cooked and tender, it’ll be easy to shred.
6. Shred the Chicken:
After cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the Crock Pot, mixing it well with all the juices. It’s all about steering in that flavor!
7. Prepare the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the sliders.
8. Set Up the Slider Buns:
Slice your slider buns in half, placing just the bottom halves on a baking sheet. This is where all that tasty chicken will go!
9. Assemble the Sliders:
Layer the shredded chicken evenly over the bottom halves of the buns, then place a slice of provolone cheese on each one. Get ready for some cheesy goodness!
10. Top and Brush:
Put the top halves of the buns on the cheese, and if you want, brush them with a little melted butter to make them extra tasty.
11. Bake the Sliders:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the buns are golden and the cheese is melted. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
12. Serve and Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, cut the sliders into individual pieces. If you fancy it, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a little color!
13. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Mississippi chicken sliders with some potato chips on the side for a crunchy treat. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using larger pieces. Bone-in chicken can also be used, but remember to remove the bones after cooking!
What Can I Substitute for the Ranch Dressing Mix?
If you don’t have ranch dressing mix, you can make your own using a combination of dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder, along with buttermilk powder for creaminess. Alternatively, any other dry seasoning mix you like can work well, so feel free to get creative!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. These sliders are also great for meal prep!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! To give your sliders a kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before cooking. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for extra heat!
