Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Buffalo chicken sliders are a mouthwatering combination of spicy, tangy buffalo chicken, creamy dressing, and melted cheese served on soft slider buns. These bite-sized sandwiches are perfect for game days, parties, or weeknight dinners, offering a big burst of flavor in every bite. The tangy heat of the buffalo sauce is balanced by the cool creaminess of ranch or blue cheese dressing, while the shredded chicken keeps the sliders tender and juicy. Whether you’re a fan of all things spicy or simply looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, these sliders are sure to be a hit at your table.

This recipe is easy to customize with different toppings, cheeses, and spice levels, making it versatile for any occasion. The sliders are also simple to prepare, using just a handful of ingredients and coming together in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into how to create these delicious buffalo chicken sliders that are as fun to eat as they are flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Party Food: Bite-sized and portable, sliders are an excellent option for gatherings and events.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep, they’re perfect for busy days.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, toppings, or type of cheese to suit your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of buffalo chicken and creamy dressing is a surefire hit for guests of all ages.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can prep these sliders ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 sliders
• Serving Size: 1 slider

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Buffalo Chicken:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
• 6 slices of cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack), halved
• ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• ½ cup shredded carrots (optional)
• ½ cup sliced red onions (optional)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.
2. Warm the mixture in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the slider buns or Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating them into individual rolls. Place the bottom halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread the buffalo chicken mixture evenly across the bottom halves of the buns.
4. Top the chicken with half slices of cheese, ensuring each slider will have a gooey layer of melted cheese.
5. Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the cheese layer, and sprinkle with shredded lettuce, carrots, and red onions if desired.
6. Place the top halves of the buns over the filling.

Step 3: Add the Butter Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, dried parsley, and garlic powder.
2. Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the buns.

Step 4: Bake the Sliders

1. Cover the sliders with aluminum foil to prevent the tops from browning too quickly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly before cutting into individual sandwiches. Serve warm with extra buffalo sauce and dressing on the side for dipping.

Ingredient Background

Shredded Chicken

Shredded chicken is the star of these sliders, providing a tender and juicy base for the buffalo sauce. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option, but you can also use leftover cooked chicken breasts or thighs.

Buffalo Sauce

Buffalo sauce delivers the tangy, spicy kick that defines these sliders. Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but any buffalo-style hot sauce will work. Adjust the amount of sauce to control the spice level.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar adds a creamy, melty layer that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce. Monterey Jack, provolone, or pepper jack can also be used for different flavor profiles.

Slider Buns

Soft, slightly sweet buns like Hawaiian rolls are perfect for these sliders, providing a fluffy texture that complements the spicy filling.

Technique Tips

• Prevent Soggy Buns: Toast the bottom halves of the buns lightly before assembling to prevent them from getting soggy.
• Melt Cheese Evenly: Covering the sliders with foil during the first part of baking helps the cheese melt evenly without over-browning the buns.
• Shred Chicken Easily: Use two forks to shred cooked chicken quickly, or place it in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for even faster results.
• Customize the Heat: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce for extra spice, or mix in a tablespoon of honey for a milder, sweeter version.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Open-Faced Sliders: Skip the top bun and serve the sliders open-faced for a lighter, appetizer-style option.
• Buffalo Chicken Sliders Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large serving platter with small bowls of dipping sauces and toppings for a DIY slider bar.
• Mini Sliders: Use dinner rolls or split sandwich rounds to make smaller, bite-sized sliders for cocktail parties or finger food events.

Additional Tips for Success

• Serve Immediately: These sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is melted and the buns are warm.
• Double the Recipe: For larger gatherings, double the recipe and use two baking sheets to bake all the sliders at once.
• Add Extra Toppings: Include avocado slices, crispy bacon, or pickles for added flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations

• Buffalo Chicken and Bacon Sliders: Add crispy bacon slices to the sliders for a smoky, savory twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Use shredded jackfruit or plant-based chicken substitutes instead of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spicy Ranch Sliders: Mix a tablespoon of buffalo sauce into the ranch dressing for an extra spicy kick.
• Honey Buffalo Sliders: Sweeten the buffalo sauce with a tablespoon of honey for a milder, kid-friendly version.
• Buffalo Chicken Salad Sliders: Mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, celery, and ranch dressing for a creamy, salad-style filling.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the sliders without baking and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole-Wheat Buns: Use whole-wheat slider buns for added fiber and nutrients.
• Light Dressing: Choose a low-fat ranch or blue cheese dressing to reduce calories.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate more vegetables like spinach, cucumber slices, or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Baked Chicken: Use baked or grilled chicken instead of rotisserie chicken to reduce sodium and fat.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day Spread: Pair the sliders with potato wedges, celery sticks, and extra buffalo sauce for a complete game day menu.
• Party Platter: Serve with a side of coleslaw, pasta salad, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Kids’ Party: Pair the sliders with mac and cheese bites or sweet potato fries for a kid-friendly feast.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for assembling and baking the sliders.
• Pastry Brush: For evenly spreading the butter topping on the buns.
• Sharp Knife: Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the slider buns cleanly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, thaw frozen chicken before cooking or shredding for this recipe. You can also use pre-cooked frozen chicken for convenience.

2. What if I don’t have slider buns?

Regular hamburger buns, dinner rolls, or even sliced baguette can be used as substitutes.

3. How do I reduce the spice level?

Mix the buffalo sauce with ranch or melted butter to tone down the heat.

4. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

5. What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, or mozzarella are all great options for melting and flavor.

6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and just as delicious when shredded for this recipe.

7. Can I grill the sliders?

Yes, assemble the sliders and place them on a grill-safe tray. Cover with foil and grill over medium heat until warmed through and the cheese melts.

8. What dipping sauces pair well with these sliders?

Ranch, blue cheese dressing, or extra buffalo sauce are classic choices. For a sweet contrast, try honey mustard or barbecue sauce.

Conclusion

Buffalo chicken sliders are the perfect mix of tangy, spicy, and creamy flavors, all packed into soft, bite-sized buns. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding your family, or just craving a fun and flavorful dish, these sliders are sure to impress. With endless ways to customize them and their quick, easy preparation, you’ll find yourself making these sliders again and again. Try them today and let the deliciousness of buffalo chicken sliders elevate your next meal or gathering!

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