Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melted Gouda layered inside soft Hawaiian rolls. Brushed with maple butter and baked until golden, these sliders are quick to assemble and irresistibly crowd-pleasing. They deliver bold flavor with minimal effort, making them ideal for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and Savory Perfection – Maple butter balances smoky bacon and rich Gouda.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish.
• Perfect for Entertaining – Feeds a crowd effortlessly.
• Minimal Ingredients – Uses simple supermarket staples.
• High-Protein and Filling – Chicken and bacon provide satisfying substance.
• Endlessly Customizable – Easy to swap cheeses, meats, or spreads.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 1 package (12-count) King’s Hawaiian rolls – Soft, slightly sweet base that holds sliders together.
• 12 cooked chicken breast strips – Provides lean protein and hearty texture.
• 4 slices Gouda cheese – Melts smoothly with mild, nutty richness.
• 4–6 slices cooked bacon – Adds smoky flavor and crisp texture.
• ¼ cup maple butter (plus extra for brushing) – Creates sweet glaze and enhances moisture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Slice the Rolls

Using a serrated bread knife, carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally to separate the tops from the bottoms, keeping each half connected for easier assembly.

Spread the Maple Butter

Spread a generous, even layer of maple butter across the bottom half of the rolls. This adds sweetness and prevents dryness.

Layer the Fillings

Arrange cooked chicken strips evenly over the maple butter. Top with bacon slices, distributing them so each slider gets a portion.

Add the Cheese

Place Gouda slices over the bacon, ensuring even coverage for consistent melting. Replace the top half of the rolls.

Bake Until Golden

Transfer the assembled sliders to the baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are lightly golden.

Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops with additional maple butter. Let cool for 2–3 minutes, then slice into individual sliders and serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Do Not Skimp on Maple Butter – It enhances moisture and provides a glossy finish.
• Use a Serrated Knife – Ensures clean cuts through soft rolls and melted cheese.
• Distribute Bacon Evenly – Prevents uneven flavor in individual sliders.
• Warm Chicken Before Assembling – Helps cheese melt more evenly.
• Cover with Foil if Browning Too Quickly – Prevents over-toasting.
• Toast Briefly for Extra Crispness – Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if desired.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 10–15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes
• Servings: 12 sliders (about 4–6 servings)
• Calories: Approximately 300–350 per 2-slider serving (estimated; varies by brand and portion)

Perfect Pairings

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries – Complements maple sweetness.
• Fresh Garden Salad – Adds lightness and balance.
• Coleslaw – Provides crunchy contrast.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade – Refreshing beverage pairing.

Ideal Occasions

• Game Day Gatherings – Easy to serve and eat.
• Busy Weeknights – Fast, family-friendly dinner.
• Potlucks and Parties – Travels well and reheats easily.
• Casual Entertaining – Simple yet impressive.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers – Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
• Reheat in Oven – Warm at 325°F for 8–10 minutes to restore texture.
• Avoid Microwaving if Possible – May soften the rolls excessively.
• Assemble Ahead – Prep sliders in advance and bake just before serving.

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick – Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot honey.
• Swap the Cheese – Try sharp cheddar, provolone, or Swiss.
• Use Turkey or Ham – Alternative proteins for variety.
• Add Dijon Mustard – Introduces tangy depth beneath the maple butter.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Sliders Too Dry – Add extra maple butter before baking.
• Cheese Not Melting Evenly – Ensure chicken is warm prior to assembly.
• Over-Browned Tops – Tent loosely with foil during baking.
• Sliders Falling Apart – Let rest briefly before slicing.

Why This Recipe Works

These sliders work because they balance contrasting flavors and textures. The sweetness of Hawaiian rolls and maple butter complements the smoky saltiness of bacon, while Gouda’s smooth melt binds the layers together. Baking at 375°F ensures the cheese melts evenly without drying out the chicken. Brushing additional maple butter on top enhances aroma and creates a lightly glossy finish. With substantial protein and balanced sweetness, these sliders provide satisfying comfort in manageable portions.

Final Thoughts

Maple Chicken Bacon Sliders are a simple yet flavorful way to elevate everyday ingredients into a memorable meal. Sweet, savory, cheesy, and perfectly baked, they’re guaranteed to win over guests of all ages. Whether served for dinner, game day, or a casual gathering, these sliders deliver big flavor with minimal effort.