Stepping into my kitchen, the air thick with the scent of buffalo sauce, I knew something special was about to happen. These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders aren’t just any game-day fare; they’re a mouthwatering fusion of fluffy slider buns and tender, zesty shredded chicken that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in, they offer a delightful balance of crunchy, cheesy goodness and irresistible spice. What’s more, they’re quick to prepare and are sure to impress, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Ready to learn how to whip up these delectable sliders that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Why Are Buffalo Chicken Sliders So Appealing? Simplicity: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. Flavor Explosion: With the tangy kick of Frank’s buffalo sauce and creamy ranch, every bite is packed with taste, sure to impress your guests. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these sliders are a hit among family and friends—everyone will want to come back for more! Versatility: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite toppings like jalapeños for extra heat or switching to a milder sauce for a gentler kick. Quick to Prepare: You can have these mouthwatering sliders oven-ready in under 30 minutes, making them a fantastic option for last-minute gatherings. For more delicious variations, try these options: Spicy Chicken Spaghetti or tantalizing Bang Bang Chicken. Buffalo Chicken Sliders Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create these spicy delights! For the Sliders Slider Buns – Soft and fluffy, these are the perfect base to hold all the delicious fillings. Shredded Chicken – Juicy and flavorful; for ease, consider using rotisserie chicken for this Buffalo chicken sliders recipe. Frank’s Buffalo Hot Sauce – This iconic sauce delivers the essential kick; adjust the amount based on your heat preference. Ranch Dressing – Creamy and cooling to balance the heat; Greek yogurt is a tasty, lower-calorie alternative. For the Seasoning Salt – Enhances flavor; try using sea salt for a gourmet touch. Ground Black Pepper – Adds depth; freshly ground offers a stronger taste. Garlic Powder – Delivers a subtle aromatic note; fresh garlic can offer a more robust flavor. Paprika – Brings mild spice and beautiful color; smoked paprika adds an extra depth of flavor. For the Topping Shredded Cheese – Provides a melty finish; cheddar or a cheese blend works best for flavor. Garlic Butter – Elevates the sliders with rich flavor; consider mixing in your favorite herbs for added taste. Italian Seasoning – Complements the garlic perfectly; fresh herbs can be used for a fresher profile. Get ready to create a mouthwatering assembly of these Buffalo Chicken Sliders! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. The parchment will make it easier to lift out the sliders later. This preparation sets the stage for the delicious Buffalo Chicken Sliders to bake evenly and beautifully. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with Frank’s Buffalo Hot Sauce, ranch dressing, salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until all the ingredients are well-coated and the chicken is evenly mixed with the spicy sauce. This step infuses the chicken with all those flavors, essential for the tasty sliders. Step 3: Assemble the Sliders Place the bottom halves of the slider buns into the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the chicken mixture over the slider buns, making sure each bun is generously topped with that zesty filling. This layer acts as the delicious foundation for your Buffalo Chicken Sliders, bringing bold flavors right from the start. Step 4: Add Cheese and Top Buns Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the chicken filling, ensuring even coverage for a gooey melt. Next, place the top halves of the slider buns on the cheese. This helps create that classic slider experience, where every bite is packed with flavors and textures, inviting everyone to dig in. Step 5: Create Garlic Butter Mixture In a separate small bowl, melt some butter and mix in garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Once combined, brush this flavorful mixture generously over the top of the slider buns. This will not only enhance the aroma but also give the sliders a delicious, golden finish as they bake. Step 6: Bake Covered Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes to allow the sliders to steam gently and keep them moist. This step is crucial for the juicy texture of your Buffalo Chicken Sliders and ensures the flavors meld beautifully. Step 7: Bake Uncovered After 15 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish and return it to the oven. Continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and the tops of the buns are lightly golden brown. This step adds that appealing crispiness to the sliders. Step 8: Serve Warm Once the sliders are out of the oven, let them cool for a couple of minutes. Then, cut them into individual sliders and serve warm. The Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are now ready to be enjoyed—each bite promises to deliver a scrumptious burst of flavor that’s perfect for any gathering! Make Ahead Options These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a fabulous option for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken mixture (shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator for optimal flavor. As for the slider assembly, it’s best to keep the buns separate until just before baking to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply layer the chicken mixture on the bottom halves of the slider buns, top with cheese, and brush with garlic butter. Bake as directed for warm, mouthwatering sliders that are just as delicious as if made fresh! What to Serve with Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders Stepping into a cozy atmosphere filled with laughter and the tantalizing scent of spice, you’ll want delightful companions for these sliders. Crispy Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, they provide a cool contrast to the sliders’ rich flavors, perfect for dipping in ranch. Colorful Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds a vibrant pop of color and texture while balancing the spice with its creamy sweetness. Potato Chips with Salsa: The salty crunch of chips pairs wonderfully with zesty salsa, making every bite a party of flavors and textures. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the spicy sliders beautifully, adding a wholesome, crispy touch to your meal. Simple Green Salad: A light mix of greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette invigorates the palate and enhances this filling meal. Chilled Beverages: Ice-cold lemonade or sweet tea can help wash down the spicy sliders, refreshing your taste buds with each sip. Chocolate Brownies: Indulging in fudgy brownies after the sliders creates a delightful contrast of flavors—the perfect sweet ending to your gathering. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For extra spice and crunch, these veggie bites echo the theme of buffalo sauce while adding a healthy twist. Buffalo Chicken Sliders Variations Feel free to get creative with these scrumptious sliders and discover new flavor combinations that will tantalize your taste buds! Protein Swap: Substitute shredded beef or pulled pork to mix things up for meat lovers. A smoky flavor comes to life with pulled pork, adding a unique twist to your sliders. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free slider buns to cater to those with dietary restrictions. No one has to miss out on these delicious bites, ensuring everyone can join in the fun! Add Some Heat: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or banana peppers for an extra kick. Heat lovers can revel in the spicy burst while savoring the creamy ranch and melted cheese. Creamy Alternative: Replace ranch dressing with Greek yogurt for a healthier and creamy alternative. This swap adds a delightful tang while cutting some calories, making it a win-win. Smoky Flavor: Switch to smoked paprika for an added depth of flavor. It gives your sliders a charming smokiness, creating a whole new dimension that will have everyone raving. Sweetness Boost: Drizzle some honey over the chicken mixture for a touch of sweetness. This contrast with the heat of the buffalo sauce creates a delightful balance that’s simply irresistible! Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist, or gouda for a richer flavor. Each cheese will create its own profile, making every batch feel fresh and exciting. Fresh Herbs: Add fresh chopped cilantro or green onions to your slider mix for a burst of freshness. The crispness of herbs complements the richness of the sliders, enhancing overall taste. For even more fabulous chicken recipes, check out my Honey BBQ Chicken or the sweet and savory Orange Chicken! How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Sliders Room Temperature: The sliders are best enjoyed fresh but can sit out for up to 2 hours during gatherings. Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo chicken sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making sure the cheese doesn’t dry out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted. Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Sliders Avoid Sogginess: Assemble the sliders shortly before baking. Pre-assembling can lead to soggy buns, detracting from that lovely crunch. Moisture Maintenance: Keep the sliders covered in the oven initially to lock in moisture. Uncover for the last few minutes to achieve a delicious golden top. Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings like crunchy cabbage or sliced jalapeños to add texture and elevate your Buffalo Chicken Sliders. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and cheese to enhance flavors. This simple tip can make a big difference in your sliders’ overall taste. Check Heat Levels: Adjust the amount of Frank’s Buffalo Hot Sauce according to your preferred spice tolerance. A little goes a long way if you want to keep things mild! Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right slider buns? Absolutely! Go for slider buns that are soft and fluffy; they act as the delightful base for your filling. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, whole-grain buns are a great alternative that can add extra fiber and flavor. What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Sliders? For the best freshness, store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s key to ensure they’re sealed properly to prevent the cheese from drying out and the buns from becoming stale. Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Sliders? Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the sliders without baking them first. Wrap them tightly in foil and then in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through and cheesy. What’s the secret to keeping sliders from getting soggy? Great question! To keep those sliders crisp, assemble them shortly before baking. If you need to prepare them in advance, keep the slider buns and filling separate until you’re ready to bake. Also, cover them with foil initially while baking to retain moisture, but uncover for the last few minutes to achieve a lovely golden top. Are Buffalo Chicken Sliders pet-friendly? No, it’s best not to share Buffalo Chicken Sliders with your pets. Some ingredients like garlic and certain seasonings can be harmful to them. Always consult with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about any specific foods for your beloved pets! Irresistible Buffalo Chicken Sliders for Your Next Game Night Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sliders are the ultimate game-day treat, blending fluffy buns with zesty shredded chicken and a kick of buffalo sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slidersCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sliders8 pieces Slider Buns Soft and fluffy3 cups Shredded Chicken Use rotisserie chicken for convenience1/2 cup Frank's Buffalo Hot Sauce Adjust to taste1/2 cup Ranch Dressing Greek yogurt is a lower-calorie alternativeFor the Seasoning1 teaspoon Salt Sea salt for a gourmet touch1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Use freshly ground for stronger taste1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can offer a more robust flavor1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika adds extra depth of flavorFor the Topping1 cup Shredded Cheese Cheddar or a cheese blend works best1/4 cup Garlic Butter Consider mixing in herbs1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can be used for a fresher profile Equipment 9x9-inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Spicy Buffalo Chicken SlidersPreheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.Place slider buns in the baking dish and top with the chicken mixture.Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, then place the top halves of the buns.Melt butter and mix in garlic powder and Italian seasoning, then brush over slider tops.Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and buns are golden.Cut sliders into individual servings, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sliderCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg NotesAssemble sliders shortly before baking to avoid soggy buns. Use quality ingredients for the best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
